Poisonous Roots

I went to the see the movie For Colored Girls. It is not a movie for BLACK people. It is a movie for ALL people in that it is a story that goes on behind the doors of many. The women wore different colors with different issues. Issues that we have all heard about and some live daily, but often are not discussed. These are deep rooted issues. It reminds me that people go about their lives showing only their surface sides; the sides of our lives that we only want the world to see. Just as a tree stands strong in the wind, deep below the surface are its roots that we don’t see.

Roots have many functions, all of which are to sustain the life that they support. They serve as anchors, sources of nourishment and storage of nutrients. We are anchored by what we have endured. The storms that we have survived make us stronger and able to sustain new winds that may blow. We are nurtured and fed by the knowledge that we have survived and that we are still standing strong.

Then there is the poison. As we are going about our lives thriving and effectively resisting the negative influences that we are faced with, we are sometimes attacked with poison meant to kill us. Poison such as heartache from cheating, slander, abuse and betrayal to name a few. The saying goes, “What doesn’t kill you will make you stronger.” We have to recognize the poison for what it is and stop it before it gets to our roots, to the core of our being. We cannot allow the will of another to tear us down. If it gets below the surface, it spreads. It begins to kill us slowly, by eating away at our sustenance until we are left withered. This is unacceptable. We must dig it up these poisoned roots so that we can live on.

That’s where the potter comes in. The potter not only molds the clay, but re-pots us. He sets us on course to restoration. He surrounds us with HIS word, His fertile ground. He nurtures us and provides us with HIS SON. He protects us as we grow tall and form new roots once again. We go on pushing forward, sturdier than ever before.

Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Isaiah 64:8


[All] are justified and made upright and in right standing with God, freely and gratuitously by His grace (His unmerited favor and mercy), through the redemption which is [provided] in Christ Jesus. Romans 3: 24 ( Amplified)

I Looked in the Mirror Today! (Put an end to Domestic Violence)

I looked in the mirror today! I saw a woman. A brown woman with brown eyes and keen features. A woman mixed with the heritage of her ancestors. A woman black, white and red.

I looked in the mirror today! I saw a woman. A woman who has weathered storms, trials and tribulations. At first I saw flaws and imperfections. I saw things I’d like to change. Things that I could make better. God said, “You are my child. I made you perfectly. You are beautiful. You are an amazing combination of my best. You are strong, you are amazing and you are mine!”

I looked in the mirror today! I then saw bold tough woman. A determined woman. A woman that loves hard and loves strong. A woman devoted to her God, her family, her children and herself.

I looked in the mirror today! I saw a woman inside out. A saved woman. A woman with a soul on fire for God. A woman with a spirit that sings. A woman with battle scars and bruises; symbols of her tenacity and drive to never give up despite the circumstances. A woman that is compassionate and caring. A woman that isn’t afraid to say what is on her heart as directed by God.

I looked in the mirror today! Have you? Do you see what man sees or what God sees? Look again. You are phenomenal. Look in the mirror and tell yourself. “ I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST! I AM INCREDIBLE! NO MATTER WHAT ANYONE ELSE SAYS, GOD LOVES ME NO MATTER WHAT! I AM A CONQUEROR; I AM VICTORIOUS…IN JESUS NAME! AMEN!”

Jeremiah 1:5 I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations

To all of the women and men who have been abused mentally, physically or verbally! I salute you! I pray for you! Remember, you are beautiful/fine/handsome and victorious! Keep Pushing Forward

Clinging to the Cross

I cherish the cross. When things get rough, when things get tough, I think of the cross. When I feel like my burdens are too heavy and I’d rather sit down than keep going, I think of the cross. When things are going well and I have no worries or complaints, I think of the cross.


The cross is a symbolic reminder of what our GOD endured for us. HE willingly allowed them (the world) to put HIM on that cross so that HE could bear our sins. HE carried that heavy cross to Calvary for you and me. So how can my burdens be heavier than his? How can my life be any more difficult than HIS? Even at my lowest point, it is nothing compared to what HE endured.

I have a cross tattooed on my foot. It took approximately 15 minutes (which felt like an hour) of excruciating pain to get it, but it was worth it. There are many arguments as to whether a tattoo is defaming your body, but it was a very personal decision. My tattoo is a constant reminder of my savior, Jesus. It is a symbol of the sacrifice and the victory! If HE could handle the pain and sins of the world for me, surely I could survive 15 minutes to have a constant reminder of HIM. I think of how even in the midst of all the good HE was doing, there were still those that chose to pick Him apart. They chose to try and tear HIM down, criticize HIM and persecute HIM. Surely He could have chosen not to bear the cross but HE did it! HE did it for you and me!



My Tattoo



The next time you are sad or weary, think of the cross. Think of HIS victory! Remember that HE rose with all power in HIS hands. Although the world thought that HE was defeated, HE was triumphant. No matter what you are going through, cling to the cross! Jesus will see you through!

Singing.....


On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,

the emblem of suffering and shame;

and I love that old cross where the dearest and best

for a world of lost sinners was slain.

So I'll cherish the old rugged cross,



till my trophies at last I lay down;

I will cling to the old rugged cross,

and exchange it someday for a crown.



Take Cover - A Storm is Coming!

As Hurricane season for 2010 comes to an end, Hurricane Earl has surfaced and is making his way toward the Eastern coast of the United States. The meteorologists are frantically trying to determine where and if he  will make landfall. It is a category 4 right now with winds at 135 mph. Forecasters are saying that he may not hit the coast but take precautions just in case he turns. Take cover! 
A hurricane is one of natures most destructive forces. It causes flooding, rip currents, choppy waves. Add in high winds, lightning and sometimes hail and you have a soup of distaster.  As destructive as it's outer bands are, it's eye is calm. The eye ( the center) of the storm is quiet and  no wind is blowing at all. It would lead you to believe that all is well, then the other side of the storm comes in full force. 

Isn't that life? The winds are blowing hard, hitting us from every direction and we take cover. We cover ourselves in the word. We hunker down and focus on protecting ourselves until the storm is over. Then comes the calm. The quiet! We let our defenses down and start picking up the pieces.  We put down our covering for we think we are safe. Safe for now it seems. Then it hits. We are blindsided by the rest of the storm. The wind hits us square in the face and we fall back to our knees seeking refuge once more.

Some of us try and stay ready at all times. We stay prayed up and read up. We praise, we worship and still we find ourselves in the storm. Don't feel like it's something you did or didn't do!! Just as Hurricane Earl is no respecter of person, neither is God. Acts 10:34 (The Message) - Peter fairly exploded with his good news: "It's God's own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites!"  HE is sovereign and gives to whom He chooses.When He provides the sunlight, HE doesn't say to the sinner, "This sunlight isn't for you!" So, as the storms rage, He doesn't say, "Saved man, you will bear no storms!" What HE does say, is that HE will have mercy & protect us.  Seek Him and He will cover you even in the storm. Romans 9:15 (New American Standard Bible) says "For He says to Moses, "I WILL HAVE MERCY ON WHOM I HAVE MERCY, AND I WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON WHOM I HAVE COMPASSION."  That is God's gift to us.  1 Peter 1:5 (New Living Translation)  says, "And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see."

Even in the midst of a raging storm, when all seems dark and lost our MOST MERCIFUL GOD is protecting us and covering us. All WE have to do is have FAITH! Easier said than done? Which would you rather have, God's mercy, love and protection or .......I think you already know!

Have a safe weekend!





 

A Breath Away

My dearest friends lost loved ones this week. Both suddenly. One had been sick and one had not but it was sudden nonetheless for death is sudden. No matter how long a person has lingered or how quickly someone has not, it is still sudden. Sudden because death is but a breath away. The last breath in a series of daily breaths. Breath that we don’t think about but breathes that we can’t live without.

Please continue to lift each other up. Someone is going through something right now. Yours might be the only prayer lifted on their behalf. You never know.

God gave me this poem entitled:

Daily Breaths by Gigi

It doesn’t matter how we start

The end result’s the same

Whether we linger or pass away quick

We leave when HE calls us by name.



Our lives are filled with daily breaths

Of moments that turn into years

Of victories, troubles & happiness

Triumphs, celebrations & tears



HE calls us home when it’s our time to go

Though loved ones would rather us near

Our MASTER, our GOD has the final say

For you, and I and those we hold dear



So remember my child as you miss your loved one

That the MASTER was there from the start

HE is with us each second, every day of our lives

And your loved one lives on in your heart.


Daily Breathes by Gigi Monique 2010

Will you say YES?

I lead a song called YES by Shekinah Glory. Every time I am asked to sing that song, my heart quickens, because I know that God is going to take over and I have absolutely no idea what I am going to say or sing.. Sometimes, I am conflicted because of the unknown, yet realizing that I have to be obedient. As I pondered on this, God gave me this revelation:


God said, “Look at the children. They are told to be obedient, yet it is a struggle. They are pulled by peer pressure.” The revelation was, as HIS children, we are asked to be obedient and we struggle. We are pulled by peer pressure and life. As long as we are on earth, there will be conflicts as we are under continuous pressure. Just as we punish our children when they are disobedient, we face consequences when we knowingly disobey HIS will.

God is saying “If I told you what I really need from thee…. Would your heart and soul say yes?

There is more that I require of thee! Will your spirit still say yes? What is your answer today? If the world says you can’t and God says you can, which will you choose? Even if the yes looks difficult, even if the yes looks or seems impossible, will you say yes?



Be watchful and obey all these words which I command you, that it may go well with you and with your children after you forever, when you do what is good and right in the sight of the Lord your God. Deuteronomy 12: 28

Why am I Unworthy???

Sally was sad. It seemed as though no matter which way she turned, things were not working out for her. It was supposed to be a good day. Today was the day that the promotions were to be announced and she had been praying that she’d receive one. Things did not go as she had planned. First the car wouldn’t start. This is turn made her late for a big meeting that she had at work. By the time she reached her office, the meeting was over. As the day progressed, things didn’t get any better. She was yelled at by consumers calling in with complaints. She went out for lunch, only to be caught in a deluge of rain without an umbrella. Soaked and frustrated, she made her way back to her office only to find that her prayers had not been answered. She did not get the promotion.


Sally felt unappreciated. She knew she had been working hard but nothing she did seemed to matter. It just didn’t seem fair. Feelings of self doubt began to creep in. Sally felt as though she wasn’t worthy. As soon as she voiced those feeling out loud the enemy got busy. He began to remind her of other times that she had not accomplished the goals that she had set in her life. He began to tell her that she was a failure and that she would never succeed at anything. She might as well crawl in a whole and die. She wasn’t worthy.

Sally began to contemplate her future. Since she was unworthy, “What was the point!” she thought to herself. As she drove home she began to wonder if it mattered if she wasn’t here anymore. Would anyone notice? Was there a purpose to her life? Blinded by tears, Sally pulled over. She was overcome with sadness and self- pity. As she cried, she found her center. She began to cry out to the Lord. “Lord, why am I so unworthy? I do the things that you require of me and yet I do not prosper! Help me Lord!” In the midst of her turmoil she heard the answer. The Lord spoke clearly. He said, “I have other plans for you! I am not opening this door because I have greater works for you! I have not answered as you have prayed because it is not MY will! Remember, in all things, it is MY will be done, not YOUR will! Stand still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10) and allow me to do the work for you. 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. (Jeremiah 29:11) You are MY child and you ARE worthy. You are royalty! You are the head and not the tail (Deuteronomy 28:13). I will make your enemies your footstool (Luke 20:43). Come here my child for you are weary and heavy laden (Matthew 11:28) and I will relieve your burdens! I am GOD!”

Sally began to praise God right there in her car! She began to exalt His name. She began to thank HIM for the work that He is doing in her life. She put aside all of her fears and anxieties. She realized that she had a brand new road in front of her. All the bad in her past was just that; passed away, dead, gone and buried! She smiled as she looked ahead at what was in store for her. She didn’t’ know exactly how or when God was going to turn things around, she just knew that HE would. He promised and HE is not a man that He should lie (Numbers 23:19)! She knew that HE had begun a good work in her and would continue His work until completion. (Philippians 1:6) Sally wiped the tears from her face, started her car and began travelling home. She was restored back to her place of worth. The enemy was foiled again. His tricks were the ultimate failure. Sally was pushing forward once again.



Side note: Sally is fictional but there are so many Sally’s in the world. People get distracted and disappointed when prayers are not answered as they think they should be. We have to recognize it as it is… temporary. We have to believe that God will do JUST WHAT HE SAID HE WILL DO! In that we can depend & live!

Love Joy!! Want Some?

We all want it. We all seek it. We can’t deny it. We are born needing it. We feel empty without it. What is it? It’s love. It’s joy! Love Joy!!

Studies have shown that babies that are not loved or held do not thrive as well as those that are. These babies develop what is called attachment disorder. They appear to have no joy. They need love.

Someone close to me became addicted to crack some years ago. I couldn’t conceive as to why they would go through rehab and then relapse. This cycle was repeated many times. It was not until I saw an investigative report on the effects of crack cocaine on the brain that I understood. When cocaine is used it interferes with the re-absorption of dopamine, which is the brain chemical that gives us pleasure. Research has shown that the 1st encounter is SO euphoric that the user keeps using to obtain that high again. Sadly, they will NEVER reach the same high as the first time, thus the addiction. One of the synonyms for euphoria is joy

It’s not just drugs. Many people feel that they are empty and are missing something but don’t know what it is. They try to fill that void with other things. It’s like an itch that can’t be scratched. Some try and fill it with food or sex or alcohol and sometimes even bad relationships. All with the ultimate goal of Love Joy!

How do you get some of this Love Joy? I thought you’d never ask!!

Originally our bodies were designed by God to live forever, but after the FALL, we were destined to die. That did not change our makeup though. We are still designed to live with HIM forever and we crave HIS presence. We want that ultimate close relationship with Him. HE is love and as HIS children, we are love. We were made to experience the joy that life can bring. We cannot be completely whole until we can experience that love joy continuously. Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that we can’t experience this love and joy while on earth. We can develop a close loving relationship with our FATHER while we are right here on earth. I AM saying that the love Joy that we experience here can’t be compared to Heaven. My grandparents were married and in love for 70 plus years. Even in their happiness they were not able to maintain that continuous love joy! In the midst of bliss there was the cruel reality of life. It’s the enemy’s job to make us miserable. So as they lived a life of love, in would creep in sickness, disappointment or death of a loved one…LIFE

Don’t fret though! As the old folk would say, “This joy I have, the world didn’t give it to me and the world can’t take it away!” It’s that Jesus Joy! That is some kinda good ya’ll. Being in HIS presence is ecstasy. You want to bask in it. Now imagine being in Heaven with our Father, singing Holy! Holy! Holy! Continuously! No vicissitudes of life. No sickness, no disappointment, just continuous love and joy! Our bodies will be transformed! We will be in our final home, living in euphoria forever.

So, go ahead. Live life to the fullest! Love with your whole heart! Push forward in knowing the next time you are feeling empty or lonely or void that you call on the Holy Spirit. He understands your emptiness. He will always be right there with you, guiding you until you reach your final destination…..where the welcome sign reads, WELCOME to CONTINUOUS LOVE JOY…WELCOME HOME!



Rev: 21:3-4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

Life Changers

Have you changed someone’s life today? At first thought you may think not, but in actuality we change the lives of others on a continuous basis. When you smiled at the cashier this morning that may have been what he/she needed to push on. When you let someone in front of you in traffic , that may have helped them get to work on time. What we perceive as minute may indeed be huge in the life of someone else.

I am so incredibly blessed to have life changers in my life. I have the most incredible selfless friends. I know that without a shadow of a doubt, I can call on any of them in the time of need and they will come to my rescue. For example, at a moment’s notice, I can call and say can you grab my girls for me! That might seem small, but when you are in a crunch, that is monumental. One friend in particular is a life saver and she doesn’t even know it. She works full time, is back in college, a devoted mother and wife, and a dynamic anointed vocalist. She is gifted beyond measure but very humble. My girls are very close to her and consider her their other mom. It’s nothing for her to say, I got the girls today. She will swoop in and pick them up and keep them with her. Our girls are the same ages. They have an awesome time together. She doesn’t know how much she means to me and how much I appreciate the life changing affects the little things that she does has on me. I called on her for help just this morning and I want to say Thank you!

There are other Life Changers in the midst. When I don’t feel like pushing, Life Changers come to mind and I am revived. I think about someone that is pushing forward or has pushed forward in a situation that I couldn’t see myself pushing through. I think about my mother who pushed through to be valedictorian of her college class while raising my sister that she had during her sophomore year. Although they were married, my dad was away at A & T University. My mom speaks of studying with my sister in her lap. She is a Life Changer! I think about Dorothy Height that pushed through although after being accepted at Barnard College, they wouldn’t allow her to attend because they’d reached their quota of two African American students. Her life is a legacy. She is a Life Changer! I think of Delois Mitchell, a dear mother to many, who after surviving the removal of a 60 pound tumor, fighting cancer and illnesses, pushed through on Sunday, oxygen in tow to deliver the scripture. She pushed through, standing proud and strong. She is a Life Changer! When I’m down, I look around. If they can push forward so can I. We have the same Father! The Lord strong and mighty!

So the next time you are down, you too should look around you. There are many Life Changers in the midst. Look within yourself! You are one of them and you can make it through. As Always, Pushing Forward!

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:3

"Poor in spirit" means to be humble. Humility is the realization that all your gifts and blessings come from the grace of God

On a treadmill - Trying to Catch Up

The Treadmill

I know that whoever invented the treadmill felt like it was clever. Yes, it is a device that allows people to walk or run, indoors. It can go fast or slow. It can incline. It can be set for different levels of workout. Some even come with fans installed and openings to hold bottles. Everything is conveniently packaged to achieve the ultimate goal… working out. Think about it though. No matter how fast or slow you walk or run, that treadmill is not going anywhere. It is stationary.

Stressed!

That’s how I felt yesterday. I felt like I was on a treadmill trying to keep up with life. Running at full speed and getting nowhere fast. Nothing major mind you. It was just the ordinary, mundane, day to day things that we all do that had me discombobulated. Hurry, Hurry, Rush Rush, Stress Stress!! We basically know how much we can handle at one time. It’s those times when additional things are tossed in the mix that we tend to be thrown off balance. We are on the treadmill of life and here comes “extra” to mess it all up. We are almost at the goal that we have set for ourselves and here comes a cramp to cause us to slow down, pause or get off.

Pain!

Well people, maybe it was time to get off. Time to change things up a little bit. Time to do some strength building exercises! Our Father knows when we need a change and often times we are so focused on the goal that we have set for ourselves that we aren’t paying HIM any mind. He keeps sending little hints and we keep ignoring them. First there was a twinge in the muscle meaning “OKAY!! THAT’S ENOUGH!!” What do we do? We keep going. Then God finally says, “I am going to MAKE you listen!” BINGO!! CRAMP!! Forced stop and listen! LOL!! Why does HE have to give us some pain to get our attention? HE shouldn’t have to but since we are so doggone human, HE sometimes HAS to MAKE us see it HIS way! Nothing can force us to our knees quicker than pain.

Prayer!

Pain hits and what do we do? Down on our knees, “Lord HELP me please!” What a wonderful Father He is. He comes to our aid when we call. Even when it was our free will that caused the problem, He comes to help us. But notice this, He now has our attention. We need Him. We are depending on Him to save us and we are listening to what He has to say. He can now guide us in the direction that He wants us to go in. When He says go pick up that weight, we do it. We didn’t think we could do it in our own strength, but since He is there, we try. We keep trying and we get stronger. Eventually we are strong enough in that area that He doesn’t have to spot us anymore. We have learned how to handle it!

Relief!

Then we are so proud of our accomplishments that we start to go off on our own again. Do we repeat the cycle because we know He is close by to save us? I don’t know! I only know that I am grateful that He is there to lead and guide me in the right direction. I’ve learned that pain is sometimes necessary to force us to listen and learn. Thank you Father for your gift of love. Thank you for loving me more than I love myself. Thank you for always being there for me regardless as to whether I am thinking of you; and thank you for pulling me off of the treadmill. Now it’s on to getting stronger and Always Pushing Forward!

Jude 1:24-25 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

The Answer

Father I stretch my hand to thee! In thee I trust and I believe.


We don't have the answers. We are not purposed to have the answers. We are designed to trust in HIM with unwaivering faith. HE knows the end and the reasons why. We shouldn't spend another moment trying to figure it out. Ask HIM! He knows, so ask HIM. Then wait. Wait for the answer to your question. Don't rush it. Don't try go out and ask someone else. Wait. If HE wants the answer revealed to you through another, then HE will arrange for them to tell you. It will be HIM working through them to provide it. You will also get confirmation of the answer. Not your answer but HIS answer. Sometimes the answers are immediate. If you know the voice of God, then you may hear it in your spirit. Note this is not our answer, but HIS answer. Sometimes the answer comes slowly. It comes after things have taken place in such a manner that you will then recognize the answer. Nevertheless, if you ask, IN FAITH, in HIS will, in Jesus name, then you shall receive...the answer.

You say, " Well what if I don't understand the answer or wanted another answer. Take this one back and give me another one! " (smile) Once again, we are not designed to have the answers. HE has the answers. Ask HIM to make it plain. Make it clear for your understanding. Then continue to trust in HIM. Have faith in HIM. He is Our Father. Our Deliverer. Our Savior. Our Healer. Our Strength. Our Everything.

Even as you go through, HE is the answer. Even when you lose a loved one, HE is the answer. Even when you don't know what else to do, HE is the answer. Even when your eyes are filled with tears and you can't see your way, HE will see you through. Trust and depend on HIM and Always Push Forward!

1John 5:14-15 "And this is the confidence that we have in HIM, that, if we ask any thing according to HIS will, HE heareth us: and if we know that HE hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him."

Forward Focused Faith

No matter what happened before you went to sleep, the morning brings brand new mercies. Before I open my eyes in the mornings, I tell the Lord, “Thank you for another day. Another opportunity to get it right! (SMILE)
I read this is Judy Jacobs’s book today and it spoke to me. It was so powerful; I wanted to share it with you all. It said, “Don’t let regrets make you miss your moment. Let the past go and forget it. Don't get stalled in regrets. Do not allow the distraction of looking at the past cause you to miss enjoying your now.
That's powerful people. How often does the enemy bring to your remembrance something that occurred in your past just as you are enjoying your present? He is quick to remind you of something that has long passed. There is nothing that you can do about it now. It's over. It's done with. You can't go backward. My pastor always said, "If you are driving while looking in the rear view mirror you are going to hit something. The windshield is big for a reason. It's there for you to look forward."

Instead of focusing on what happened or could have or should have happened, focus on what is going to happen. Follow God’s example and speak those things into existence. In Romans 4, It states “…God, who giveth life to the dead, and calleth the things that are not, as though they were…..” Focus on the power within you and follow through on the plans that are ahead. In the book the Power of Focus by Jack Canfield, it states, "Everything you want is on the other side of fear!" Picture a wall that you need to get over and what you want is on the other side. That wall is called FEAR. If you are afraid to even approach the wall then how are you going to get to the other side? Fear is one of the enemy's weapons. If he can prevent you from trying he doesn't have to worry about your accomplishments. Then he throws in some doubt plus worry and what do you have nothing. That's right. You are stalled. Stuck and unable to move forward!

There is a solution. You can get over that wall by talking a leap of FAITH! Faith in GOD! Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. (New Living Translation)” In the book, “Putting your Faith into Action Today” there is a poem which states,”Faith is leaping across the gaps between the known and the unknown! The actual and the possible-the grasp and the reach! There is always a chasm between where you are and where you are going-by faith make the leap forward.

When you find yourself stalled out, repeat this phrase. “FORWARD, FOCUSED, FAITH”. Pushing forward, focusing on my future, with faith in my GOD! That’s cause for a praise break!

Father God,

Thank you for another day. Thank you for allowing me another opportunity to be your willing vessel and praise your name. Thank you for keeping my mind focused on you. I pray right now that all that are reading this are blessed beyond measure. Bless their coming and going. Cover them in every aspect of their lives. You are all powerful and able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we may ask or think. You know the desires of our hearts Lord. Grant us that Forward Focused Faith. In Jesus most precious, magnificent, matchless name. Amen!

I WILL GO

Would you do it? Would you volunteer? You know…...to lay down your life! To die for someone else! You know for folks that have done wrong. Sinners! You know those people. The ones that lie, cheat, steal, gossip. People that are mean spirited, evil and malicious. The ones that smile in your face and talk about you behind your back. Would you do it? Could you do it? Would you even consider it?


HE did! He died so that we might live. Live an eternal life with our FATHER. Galatians 4:4-5 says: “But when the appropriate time had come, God sent out his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we may be adopted as sons with full rights.” Did you hear that? So that we, you and me could become HIS children, joint heirs with full rights! All for us!

That’s so powerful. He was born, lived, preached, healed, saved , tortured, beaten, bruised, crucified and raised from the dead with ALL POWER so that we can have ETERNAL life. So that we can call GOD our FATHER! So that we can say “Father, I’m sorry! Please forgive me for I have sinned.” And because we are imperfect humans, we do it again and we say, “Father, I am such a wretch Lord, I have sinned again. I continue to sin Lord, please forgive me and He does!” Isn’t that awesome! He loves us just that much. Unconditional love. Agape love. There is rest in HIM. Peace in HIM. Hope in HIM. LIFE in HIM!

As we celebrate Maundy Thursday…. The commemoration of the Last Supper, take a moment and think of all that HE continues to do for you. How HE blesses you. Thank him for your right mind, your sight, your ……… (take it from here..fill in the blanks)! The blessings become too numerous to count. I am thankful for Jesus, for you, my friends and family. I love you and continue to Push Forward!

Why is Life so Hard?

Okay people. I’m going to put it out there. “Why is life hard?” There, I said it! Come on! Don’t act like you’ve never said that before or thought it. I’ve heard people go so far to say, “Why are we here if this is all there is to it. There has to be a better way!”


Of course there is a better way. In Matthew 11:30, Jesus says “For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light." (NIV). In that HE is saying that HE knows that sin makes life hard. We are shaped in sin. Sin is a part of our everyday life therefore life is not going to always be easy. Yes, some days are better than others, but while we are in this flesh, we are sinners. Yes, we repent, but we are still shaped in sin. Romans 7:20 (amplified) explains “Now if I do what I do not desire to do, it is no longer I doing it [it is not myself that acts], but the SIN [principle] which dwells WITHIN me [[c]fixed and operating in my soul]. The good news is that when we are in Christ, HE bears the sin thus making our burdens easier. HE alone is the one that can save us. HE doesn’t say that we won’t have burdens and that as Christians, we are exempt. He is saying that our burdens are lighter and we can rest in HIM.

Have you ever seen a yoke? A yoke is a shaped wooden CROSSpiece bound to the necks of a pair of oxen or horses. It is held on the animals' necks. It transmits force between the animals' shoulders making it easier to carry a load. Imagine that you are going through a tough trial and you are all alone. You are trying to carry this heavy burden on your shoulders and the more you try to walk the heavier it gets until you are almost crawling on the ground. THEN you call on JESUS and you become yoked with HIM. He is strong and equipped. He picks up the burden you are carrying and walks beside you. Did you just feel that relief!! The awe in knowing that HE cares enough about you to carry you! The burden just got easier. Once again, it didn’t go away but now you can rest in HIM. That’s incredible news.

I leave you with this. One of my favorite songs is “Stand” by Donnie McClurkin. In it he says, after you’ve prayed and cried and have done all that you can, you just STAND. I know that I can Stand up and strong when I am yoked to Jesus. HE is there to dust my knees off, STAND me up and allow me to push forward. That is my prayer for you today, STAND, in Jesus’ name… Amen!

Hurdles-How I Got Over!

Hurdles- How I got over!!


Have you ever run hurdles? It’s all about skill, timing and mindset. When I was growing up, I had the skill. I could run and I was fast. My 9th grade gym teacher recognized this and asked me to run track. One of the events that she wanted me to participate in was the hurdles. She figured a cheerleader that could run would be a perfect combination. The training began with timing. She had me count out the steps between the hurdles to teach me the rhythm. Then a problem presented itself. I didn’t have the mindset. Seeing those hurdles placed in front of me seemed like a daunting task. How in the world was I going to do this? Keep in mind, I liked to excel at everything that I did and this was not coming easily. I knew that in order to get to the finish line, I had to clear them. If my timing was off, I would either fall or knock the hurdles down. A misstep could actually cause me to lose the race! More about this later…

PERCEPTION VS REALITY

Those hurdles looked like HUGE obstacles to me. It was the perception. Just as in life, if we allow our hurdles to scare us, we are already defeated. We can easily psyche ourselves out of running. Every step toward them may cause us to pause, stop or turn around. We begin to tell ourselves that there is no way we will ever be able to get over the hurdle. What do we do then? Give up and quit! Defeated!

On the other hand, there is another choice. We can choose to face the hurdle head on! Instead of a defeatist attitude, we can choose to win. Our hurdles are not insurmountable. The hurdle event in track and field is defined as a sport where the sprinter runs over the hurdle or barrier. RUN over the barrier!! That’s right. The barriers are there but it is expected that we RUN OVER THEM! That’s good to me people. If it was an impossible task then there would be no need for the sport. That’s the same for you and me. Barriers may be in front of us. The hurdles may appear monumental BUT with faith in GOD all things are possible. With perseverance and HIS help, all things can be won! We can clear those hurdles. When we cross the finish line and look back and see how we got over, we can see why the barriers were there. There to show us that we can do it. There to teach a lesson and growth. Showing us that we CAN push forward!

I AM A WINNER

Back in the 9th grade, the hurdles won. I let them defeat me. I gave up and moved onto to something else. Although, I gave up, I learned a valuable lesson from that experience. I learned that I should have stuck with it. I shouldn’t have let the fear of failing get in my way. I learned that although I was intimidated by the task, it was only my perception. It wasn’t real. I have taken that lesson and used it in life. Used it to remind me to push forward, even when I don’t feel like it! Push forward, even when I don’t want to because the end result will be oh so sweet! We can win the race! We are victorious and we are winners! In Jesus name, AMEN!

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7

What do you do when your GPS fails?

OK!! It’s dark and I don’t see well at night. Add in the maddening circles in DC and what do you have? A MESS! The GPS kept saying take the 4th exit… in the circle? What in the world does that mean? There are no exits in the circle!! SO….I ended up on the wrong narrow street with snow mounds EVERYWHERE! UGH! UGH! People say that your character can be judged based on how you untangle Christmas lights. I say, watch how people act when they are lost. LOL I finally asked a cab driver and you would have thought I’d cussed at him. He said “The hotel is right up the street!” He was pointing at a wall!!!! I said, “Up the street where?”..….determined to find my way. He sort of mellowed out and was more specific. I thanked him in my southern manner. I’m sure he was thinking… tourist! I didn’t care; I just wanted to get to where I was supposed to be. (SMILE)

That’s how life is. We all want to get to where we are supposed to be. We know when we are lost and we feel so disjointed. We get anxious. All of us react differently to that lost feeling. Some people stop and focus. Some people ask others what to do. And some people call on JESUS!! Can you guess what I was doing last night? You got it… I was calling on Jesus!! HE is ALWAYS the answer! Although HE didn’t audibly say, “GIGI!!! TURN RIGHT AT THE NEXT CORNER!!” I firmly believe the cabby was in the right place at the right time so that I could ask for directions! There is always a ram in the bush, when your faith rests with HIM.

Next time your GPS keeps saying “You are now off course! You are now off course!” Take a deep breath, pull over, refocus and say a prayer! You’ll find your way in HIM, in that you can depend.


Genesis 22:13 Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and saw that behind him was a ram caught in the thicket by his horns. Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering instead of his son.

The Road to ME and the GAS is FREE!

When I was a child, I always wanted to be in the front of the line or up front. I was considered an over achiever. A leader! Then one day I got on the wrong road.

Wrong Way

Have you ever been driving on the interstate at 70 + miles an hour and realize that you missed your exit. Your first inclination is to back up and try and make it but usually there are too many cars coming and you can’t stop and back up. Then you start looking for a break in the highway to cut through to the other side, but there are concrete barriers up, so there is no short cut. The next option is to keep driving until the next exit so you can turn around. Sometimes this can be miles and miles down the road and you end up wasting so much time trying to get back on track. That’s life. We miss our exit and get on the wrong road and its years before we are headed in the right direction. YEARS!

The Road

I used to be self employed. In order to shine and be in the front of the line, I had to literally work 12-14 hour days, with no time for my children and family and church. I didn’t realize this going in; I just thought that was what I wanted. I prayed for it and as the old folk say, “be careful what you ask for!” I wasn’t ready. I was in the front of the line for the first few years but I burned myself out. I was also immature. I let my need to take care of others versus myself get in my way. I didn’t have that cut throat mentality and some of those closest to me and in my employ took advantage of me. Ultimately, I gave up. I didn’t fight for what was rightfully mine. I didn’t have the support system I needed, I was tired and I let it go!

I let this bother me for years. I regretted not fighting for what was given to me but God said clearly, “It’s time to let it go! It was all for a reason.” That was not what HE would have me to be. It was just for a season. He allowed me to stay in it long enough for HIM to show me the things HE wanted me to see and learn. I became born again during those years, became a different person and therefore it was time to move on. I just couldn’t see it at the time.


"...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..." Jeremiah 29:11

The Road to ME.... (the God in Me)

Who God creates us to be doesn’t change, but sometimes circumstances cause us to forget who we are and what we are made of. We bury the ME! The enemy sees our future and tries to thwart God’s plan for us as well. He will do anything he can to block our path or send us on the wrong road. In other cases, we are own enemy. We let our free will get in our own way. Combine these situations and we end up on a very long road to nowhere.

Praise God that HE is in control. He knows the plans that HE has for us. When we are sensitive to HIS will and listen to HIS voice, HE will guide us back onto the correct road! HIS path. He will put people in our lives to give us the guidance that we need. HE will reveal what HE has in store for us and keep us on track. HE will create shortcuts and remove the barrier that were once there. The road to ME seemed long to me but I now realize that it was HIS plan.

HIS Road

Even on HIS road there are turns, curves, stoplights, toll booths and accidents. All for a reason. All to help us see that the road ahead is bright for HIS light is guiding us. Yes, get on HIS road. Find your way back to your "ME"; the ME that HE created you to be! Let your light shine, turn on your HIGH BEAMS, toot your own horn and the GAS is FREE!!

God Always Saves... (GAS)

Turn on the Light! - It's Dark in Here

Stagnate: to fail to develop or progress, to stop flowing, become foul or to become inactive. Basically, NOTHING is happening.

Ever felt that way? Stuck!! Surrounded by murk and mire and unable to see your way out or through! It is very difficult to find your way in the dark. You can’t see what’s up ahead and you may lose your way. Progress is impeded in the darkness because we tend to step gingerly, trying to avoid the pain of stumbling or falling. If we become fearful, we stand still. We’re stuck until we can find the LIGHT.

The enemy would rather have it his way. He would have us to remain stagnated in darkness. Lucifer means light bearer, or morning star. He was once adorned in jewels and God’s light reflected off of him, causing him to appear illuminated. Ezekiel 28:13 (NIV) says, “You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: ruby, topaz, and emerald, chrysolite, onyx and jasper, sapphire, turquoise and beryl. But he lost his light when he rebelled against God and was cast out of heaven. He is in constant turmoil for he knows that his days are numbered and he is already defeated. He is roaming to and fro, trying to smother the LIGHT that shines from within us by overshadowing us in darkness. He brings up things from out past, old hurts and circumstances. He doesn’t play fair. He may say we are unworthy or unqualified, but he is a liar!.... And as my mom would say “And the truth is not in him.”

The awesome news is that we don’t have to be stuck, confined or bound; especially in the dark. We have the upper hand. We have access to the LIGHT at all times. If you feel the darkness come upon you, pray! Plain and simple! What we need lives inside of us. The light is always available; we just have to turn on the LIGHT. How you say? Just call on the name above all names!

“Jesus!” The enemy will flee! “Jesus!” The enemy will cower! “Jesus!” The darkness will dissipate! “Jesus! Jesus! Jesus!”

And at that name every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Philippians 2:10-11