Fearless!

Such a beautiful day today in East Lansing! Of course, everyday is sunny regardless of the clouds; nothing can keep the Son from shining! I've just completed the second of my three exams for this week, and I'm not exhausted yet...however I'd like to share just a little insight, perhaps this post will be short and sweet :)

Don't know about you, but when things get between me and accomplishing a particular task or goal, I get kind of upset. Some things not only cause hindrances, but threats as well. The threat of losing one's driver's license not only takes away their right to enjoy their vehicle, but also keeps them from (legally) driving to work! Is that something to be afraid of? Maybe, not getting to work and making a living to keep the lights on...but still, is that a sufficient cause to fear?

One of my favorite ministers to listen to, Pastor Joel Urshan, articulated very well that "most of us aren't afraid of our 'fears,' we're just afraid of losing control." We just don't know what we would do if placed in certain situations, so we call ourselves "afraid" of them. However, if placed in a distressful situation, such as fighting a dog off of our child (and we're "afraid" of dogs), then that fear ceases. This is because perfect love casteth out fear...there is no fear in love (1 John 4:18). Now we see how God died for us on the cross- He wasn't afraid to save His people! When we allow fear to enter into our spirit, we invite torment, torture, injury, oppression, pain and disappointment right along with it.

We have no reason to fear anything/anyone outside of the ruler of the universe- God Himself! Because He GAVE his only begotten Son, He GAVE us his love...we cannot allow fear to keep us from giving our love! If we say we love God, then we cannot be afraid to die to our flesh, our desires, our pride, our sin- our fears- and to give ourselves to HIM!!!!!! MYYYYY GOD...Once you find out the enemy's tactics, he can't use them to deceive you anymore!

Simply put, I encourage you to yield yourself to the awesome power of God by giving, showing and living your love to Him. Wait on the Lord, through all your trials and temptations, all while yielding to Him, and he will perfect His love in you!!! (James 1:4). Jesus loves us too much for you to fear anything or anyone in this world- and He didn't let anything get between Him and proving it to us.

And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not. Exodus 20:20

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. Ecclesiastes 12:13

Tell me what YOU see

The entire world around us is filled with plenty of things, places and people to see. It's because of our physical surroundings that we do many of the things we do; the rural man plants his crops in good soil, the hunting man goes out to catch his dinner in the forest, the scholar goes to college and pursues his degrees, etc. Because we see so many opportunities in the world to progress our lives towards higher levels of comfort, we take full advantage of them. I wouldn't be a student if I found a better opportunity to get ahead in my life. However, the realm of visibility only goes as far as we can physically view it, and in the end there's always something to try to get a better look at.

As we pursue ambitions, hopes, dreams and goals, I wonder sometimes, "why?" The answer is, there's all sorts of desires that we have to quench (thirsts). No matter what, we will find some thing to satisfy them, and it doesn't even have to be an enjoyment of ours. Over time, though, we begin to enjoy those things. Once, I would just "pass the time" by playing Fifa Soccer (never so much as watched a soccer match prior). Eventually, the game became more than a pastime, but a regular hobby. Finally, I couldn't wait to play the game once I got home from work. This simple example goes to show that given proper circumstances, we can and will give in to whatever it is we find to satisfy our desires. 

My desire to pass the time slowly but surely evolved into a hope for playing Fifa Soccer once I got home from work. Of course me playing was dependent upon whether or not my roommates were playing, but I looked forward to playing regardless. We are hope creatures, or creatures of hope. Once we come into certain experiences, though, hope evolves into expectation. After getting a call back from a job I applied for, I hoped to get a second interview. Once on the job, though, I expected to get paid. And all of this came from me pursuing the job opportunity, which I saw in the "Now Hiring" sign in the company window.

People, we must turn our hope to God! I'm sure I'm not the only one who has desired, hoped and even expected plenty of things to come my way during life, only to have been disappointed. It's very displeasing to the soul. That's just the way this life is; the world is designed by God for us to run out of worldly pleasures, only for us to run into His salvation to escape the dissatisfaction that the world gives. What can a man give in exchange for his soul? NOTHING! That's why our Lord poses the rhetorical question, "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matthew 16:26). The point our Lord makes, is that we can search throughout the entire earth, and find nothing to fill the voids of our desires, outside of salvation in Him. 

I encourage you to take a deeper, introspective observation of yourself, and to note what it really is that you are living this life for. What is it that you are giving time, energy and soul to? Is it just to pay bills, to please some significant other, or to be accepted in society? Or, are you just simply "passing the time"? Please don't let Jesus pass you by!!!! He is here, and He wants to be inside of you, filling any and all holes that may have you waiting for hope deferred! Plainly, once you are born again, the things of this life will  be brought into their proper perspective and pass away before your eyes- and your hope will be in the unchangeable, eternal, awe-striking and great God of all creation! Trust Him, He will not leave you hanging!

For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for (it)? Romans 8:24

Am I a God at hand, saith the LORD, and not a God afar off? Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? Saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? Saith the LORD. Jeremiah 23:23

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2

No other way

So, it's been a while. 16 weeks, about 10,000 miles, at least 50 cups of coffee, and about 10 haircuts. Nevertheless God has been good! I apologize for leaving the blog hanging, but honestly I got to the point where writing felt like some sort of responsibility. However, I got a couple of comments and, they were accepting! All I can say is glory to God, who is my inspiration and confidence to do everything possible to move forward!

So, it's in the heat of the summer and I'm knee deep into the task at hand: graduating. East Lansing isn't as populated as usual but I feel like I'm passing up midterm week already! But that's all good, because I know there's a goal worth approaching and unless I put in some work, it won't be accomplished. The only way to walk across that stage and to get that piece of paper is to follow the instruction! Just like putting together a lampstand, desk or a chair, this college thing has its instruction manual: Go to class, and study!! There's no getting around certain things, when you want to gain a valuable experience and retain it all. Isn't that like our God. There is no possibility of getting around His order, statutes, commandments, and laws, while pleasing Him!

Every single individual ought to have the goal of obtaining eternal life. However, without the proper instruction and guidance into this goal it will never be comprehended. Unless the believer places his faith in Christ (the way, the truth and the life), all attempts to obtain any level of success amount to no value, because there's no glory for God! Without faith it is IMPOSSIBLE to please God, who is eternal life. Please don't place your confidence in things. Things, people, places, worldly accomplishments, etc., will all cease and have no lasting value. But if and only if we can believe God for His Word, we will possess ultimate joy!!

After traveling the world, I can honestly identify with the fact that there's NOTHING on this earth worth living for without the fellowship of Jesus. He is all in all! Taste and see that God is good for yourself, and trust me, you will not be dissatisfied. There is no other way, anyway!

Best,

Nick

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Hebrews 11:6


Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.
Psalm 73:25

Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
St. John 3:5

Listen!!

Longsuffering

Well, after a long, frigid and rough winter, Spring has sprung. Personally, I have long awaited for this new season to arrive. Although I'm a native Michigander, seeing the green grass, blossoming trees and feeling the warm sun always gives a refreshing sense after enduring a few feet of snow. Technically, the first day of Spring was this past Sunday, March 20. Right now, it's only about 37° outside, with freezing rain! Looks like we'll have to put up with a bit more of this Midwest temperate climate for a moment.

There's nothing wrong with anticipation. Many times, we find ourselves waiting and expecting in several situations. Sometimes, the longer we have to wait, the anticipation becomes heavier and anxiety becomes a factor into our waiting... which may cause detriment. Waiting for a significant other (and/or spouse), the call back for a job, or even a meal in the drive-through at McDonald's may all very well test our patience. This is nothing wrong; however, our level of expectation to whatever- or whomever- it is we're waiting on will certainly affect our commitment to wait. 

Even when dealing with individuals, patience is necessary. There are some folk who are just plain difficult to agree with (some aren't agreeable at all). Be that as it may, they still deserve love. As much as God has loved me through many situations, I cannot afford to resist to show it to others. Waiting on people to change, though, is not wise. Only the Lord can change a person; but your love for that person may be just what they need to change over time. If you're stuck on a job or in class with someone who you can't avoid, love them through the experience. 

In whatever season you may be in, expect the Lord to meet all of your needs! No matter what you're waiting on, He is the perfect Father and will not leave you hanging. Whatever He says you can have, commit to His will and it is yours. His children need not to worry about who in the world approves of them, who will comfort them, or having an abundance of things to validate them. The Lord will do all of the above for all who wait on Him! Obedience to His Word brings peace, joy, comfort and expectation which far exceeds anything the world can offer. I love you!

And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever. Isaiah 32:17

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3

And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation... 2 Peter 3:15

...walk worthy of the calling wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in love; Ephesians 4:1-3

Limitless

Where are your limits? What are limits? How do we determine them? Why are they necessary? With whom do we arrange them?

All of the above are proper to question, particularly in the daily discourse of life. Rationally speaking, there's a capacity to every finite being; humans. Psychological, cognitive and even social capacities are all variably addressed within the conscience, thus affecting the mental disposition of an individual. What does all this mean? Let's follow this perspective of "limits."

Sometimes, there's a point I reach where I've had enough. Such as today, I've only gone to one out of three classes, and I'm probably not going to make my last one. However, that's only because I have limited myself. There have been times where I did not miss one single session for a class, for an entire semester; and the other classes I missed were by necessity. Is a level of commitment reflected in one's limits, or decisions within those limits? I can't say, right now. Give me a moment, and I'll answer. 

What I do know is that there are limitless potentials, given our level of commitment. The grace, mercies, favor, love and joy of our God have no limits! And that DOES reflect His level of commitment to us! No matter where or who you are, Jesus came to save us. No matter how long you've been saved or wandering in the world, Jesus is committed to saving you. I speak from experience. Although I was not committed yesterday, today the Lord has given me plenty of reasons to trust in Him, and to unlimit our relationship. The decisions we make within the limits (or lack thereof) of our salvation either propel or hinder us. 

Have you ever been in a relationship where your significant other constantly took you back, or you took them back, after being unfaithful- OVER and OVER again? I have. Jesus is the lover of our souls, and there's nothing too big that we can conjure up to separate us from His love. All we have to do is welcome His infinite presence into our confined spaces, and give and receive more. The Lord loves you.

But he, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: yea, many a time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath. For he remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again. Psalm 78:38-39

For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me. Psalm 86:5-7

Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite. Psalm 147:5

It is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

Newness

So, I'm at work again. Like anything's changed. There's always something, some work, to be done. But, I won't complain. Half of the day I spent doing much of nothing. Anyway, I don't have anything specific to write about. It will be nice to fit something with the preconceived title.

Thank God for newness. The same old, traditional, tried on and used to things are too heavy to carry in any walk. To keep moving forward, there must be new places, faces and happenings to be seen. Although some things aren't new to everyone, don't let that hinder you from getting yours! Nothing's new to God anyway. However, He's in the business of making newness happen on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, there are too many shiftless and stubborn people in this world. Not that I'm justified for lazying around today, but there are careers made of doing nothing. Some folk just work at underachieving. We'll find that this is absolutely contrary to the will of God. Just as He works, we must work. Labor may not be the most rewarding thing at times, but it can be enjoyable and sustainable, to an extent. I'm definitely digressing, but dig with me. What is the end of our labor? Whatever it is that we work for, what is the end of it? Food on the table, coats on our kids in the cold, the new Jordans; a promotion, happiness, attention from the opposite sex, or praise of our peers? What, if at all, drives man to do the things he does?

Indeed, there's some sort of expectation or desired result of everything we do. Through experience I've learned (still learning) that it's best to evaluate every intention for each decision that I make. Even the best intentions, though, may have detrimental effects to follow. That's why they must be made with the leadership of Jesus! He knows (is) the best for us, and it's all because of Him that we're working in the first place. Acceptance in Him is not always the most labor-intensive job, but it requires a whole-hearted, committed and enthusiastic lifelong effort.

So, when we recognize the intentions of our actions, or their desired outcomes, perhaps there will be more work to be done. Every new day presents new tasks, obstacles and opportunities. Let us not labor with the same attitude of yesterday, which will lead to indifference towards the mission. The mission from Heaven requires diligence to enter into the never-ending presence of joy with Jesus, which is the ultimate and most-satisfying reward! Be refreshed, renewed and restored in your God-given tasks.

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6


I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Psalm 32:8

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in van in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:58


Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4

Now listening to

Vomit on the elevator

It's been a minute! Unfortunately, I'm at work, and some kid just puked their guts on the elevator. Sheltered college kids just want to party. It shouldn't be at the cost of others' convenience, though. Some things just don't belong in certain places! Like, a shoe in the toilet; an orange in your gas tank; or even bike in a tree. Vomit, however, belongs in the toilet, even at 1:30 a.m. on a Saturday night- not on residential elevator.

Now I do empathize for the drunk. They just had to get it out of them! This lesson taught me to just not drink alcohol, on several occasions. Sometimes we need others to help clean up our mess, because of our weaknesses. I did vomit all over the back seat of a friend's car once. He insistently commanded me to clean it up, which I obviously did with shame towards my frailty, humbled. At least he was kind enough to get me home that night! Thankfully, there's always someone available to help us, even to clean us when those weaknesses and hindrances mess us all up!

Our God is so wonderful! The thing is, NOBODY can approach Him like He's a regular somebody, which many of us have been guilty of. Moses learned this firsthand, Draw not hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground (Exodus 3:5). Moses had been trekking many a places, and after travelling for so long he accumulated a lot of dust on his sandals. The Lord wanted Moses, not all of the weight he was carrying. Mmmm! Jesus would have us to be holy, even as He is holy. How much stuff are we carrying along and holding on to? Certainly they weaken and hinder us from the joy of the Lord. That's why we must be purged and cleansed from it all! WOW! Throw it up, no matter where you are!

Whatever it is, like alcohol sin doesn't belong in the life of the believer! Get it out, let the Lord clean you up and leave it alone. I know the Lord has purged me of several things, and I'm sure I'll need His help for the rest of my life! His power DOES belong in the life of the believer.
(I've been ministering to myself the entire duration of writing this post!)

Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
Psalm 55:22

By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.
Proverbs 16:6

Help me to love!

Listen up!

It feels good to be alive in 2011! Church was "bangin'" today. It felt like I hadn't been in a month! That's how you know you're ready for a refreshing. I've settled back into East Lansing, and am thankful (even after MSU got their tail smashed yesterday). Go Green anyway.

Have you ever just wanted to hear a special someone say just one word, as if everything else unrelated was nonexistent at the moment? So,  in fact, that you're drawn to anxiousness just waiting to hear it? I remember my mom would drag conversations in totally other directions while I would wait for an answer, for permission to go out on the weekend or to drive somewhere. I'd ask her, and she ask me about gas, then begin to talk about gas prices and how they're only going up. Somewhere in between she would ask me if I took the garbage out, or how much homework I had. All of which, she had good reason to comment on and question. All I wanted was a simple "Yes"! One word. Just so I could go enjoy myself!

Although leisurely enjoyment is important to the human spirit, there are similar situations where a reply, answer or resolve with only one word may offer release, liberty, peace, etcetera. Sometimes not so much (disappointment, anxiety). However, how wonderful are those moments when we receive just what we need, what we've longed and hoped for! It's amazing what only ONE word can do- miracles. A simple "I love you" can open up doors of insecurity and dissatisfaction. A lot of times we try to get out every word possible. Many times, less is truly more.

May this post find you in good spirit, I pray that it will bless you! Whatever your needs are, the Lord can give you His Word to trust on. Watch it come to life in you! Whether you need peace, healing, finances, love, joy, or whatever, He will be it! All He has to do is utter one Word, and He doesn't have to talk your ear off =)

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
James 1:19
I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great treasure.
Psalms 119:162

This song has been ministering to me since 7:00 AM this morning!

Keep it Real

I saw Tron: Legacy today. It was the first time that I can remember stepping into a movie theater since Taken, about two years ago. Tron was decent, not what I expected for 3D but decent nonetheless. There was a scene at the end that left me thinking, and of course my mind drifted into otherspace. I noticed that earlier today. Outside from watching or listening to something going on directly in front of me, I have trouble centering my focus. Even when I am paying attention sometimes! Please pray for me.

Be that as it may, I cannot help but to think about the human condition. Things on the outside do not always reflect what's on the inside (vice versa). That's quite terrible if you ask me. One may appear to be irresistibly attracted to someone or something, yet that person or thing may actually disgust the individual down to their inner most being. Sometimes, I can't understand how anyone would be drawn away in such a manner, though I've been subject to the same situation. What I marvel at, though, are the potential results of inner-outer reflection by us human beings. Transparency. Integrity. Reality?

Many of us are all too familiar with the phrase "Keep it real." How real are we? My Soc 375 Professor posed this same question, based on Rene Descartes' "Meditations on First Philosophy". The prof. bet anyone in the class to prove their existence, beyond "I think therefore I am." If I may submit, what is the definition of reality? Of course we may perceive many things to be real, but of what substance? After dealing with this flesh, I've had times where I was at my wits' end, questioning myself, "why". The answer is, because I had not identified myself. My identity is not in my word, or in my deeds. It's in God's Purpose, Word and Perfect Will. Let me get to the point.

The world can't define reality. No one in the world. Not even I. God is real, however, and only the things that He does are real. I'm created and exist for His purpose. If I choose not to identify with what God is doing, then I'm just a superficial trend (trends are always changing). The only way I can live in reality is by aligning with the Word, Purpose, and Will of God. Even when I do, I MUST continue and NOT be sidetracked! The Purpose of God is not just a one time quick fix. It's eternal, and it begins for me here on this earth, never ending in the Heavens.

This was not the thought I pondered after leaving the movie, although it's extremely related. Initially, I wondered about how we allow things in the peripheral to affect the things that are chief. What's least important tends to take our attention from what matters most. The Spirit of God will always let us know what's most important in His eyes!

I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth; Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.
Isaiah 43:6-7
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
2 Corinthians 3:18

Get excited for what the Lord wants to do with you!!!

Don't tell me that!

Today has been both recovering and fantastic. I would do anything to continue in this happiness! Sometimes I need serious reminders, and ever since a child repetition has been key. After being told not to touch the stove, or the hotcomb- and actually touching them- I learned. Hardheaded! But after going through some things, how pleasing it is to actually relate with others before making the same mistakes.

Even though we haven't gone through it all yet, with preparation there is hope. After attending elementary, middle and high school, then college, I've never taken a certification exam for a professional career. With the right training in school, however, it will be just another assessment. I have been tested all of my life, and I'm persuaded that the tests will continue to come on different levels and in various formats. 

So what if you are constantly being tried in the same test? Does learning the lesson mean that you have passed? There are some lessons I've learned, and tests that I have not passed. I am also persuaded that, upon passing the test there will be something else to study for. That does sound strange, doesn't it? If I've sat through lecture and gone to class, learned the material, why do I fail? Maybe there's something I missed. Whatever the case, the only one keeping me back is me. I only fail because I haven't given full control over to  the Victor, Jesus. However, I will see His victorious light shine in my life, if it's the last thing I do! 

Don't tell me what can't be done! Yeah, you may have failed, but you're not defeated! You and I both may have seen the same situations, trials and results for years. But God! Don't limit Him! I am certainly depending on Him to pass many things, but I don't need anyone telling me that I can't do what God created me to do! He turns failures into success stories. Turns around the backward onto forward paths. Purifies the filthy. All of the above, only God will be the one to do it, so why not test yourself by making the ultimate life-changing decision- choosing Him! 

Examine yourselves to see if your faith is really genuine. Test yourselves. If you cannot tell that Jesus Christ is in you, it means you have failed the test.
2 Corinthians 13:5

But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raises the dead: 2 Corinthians 1:9

For a just man falls seven times, and rises up again: but the wicked falls into mischief. Proverbs 24:16

Haven't even listened to the whole song yet...

Same old

It's time to get back. I've enjoyed sitting around and doing nothing for the past week, and I can't take it anymore! I do need the rest. Perhaps I'll be wishing for more time to relax by February. Anyway, do you ever get tired of doing the same thing the same way with the same people all the time? I do.Unfortunately, some friends and family just don't change. But that doesn't change the fact that they're family, and a real friend or family member will be there for you no matter what.

Family is also there for encouragement, support and guidance. Ought to be. We make families out of many different networks, don't we? I do not doubt that all types of families share the same qualities stated above. I can only imagine that the difference between families is what they encourage, support and guide individuals in. Whether the family is a secular progressive, fundamentalist, sophisticated or broken, there are associated mental dispositions within each. Ultimately, a member will share the same disposition with their family, to an extent.

It can be a church family, nuclear family, political family, work-related or gang family; "birds of a feather flock together." However, one's association ought not to define them. Let's say I drive a a Monte Carlo, a coupe. I join a car club, and everyone else has Impalas, sedans. No matter how long I ride with them, I'm always gonna drive a coupe! Same maker, different models. That's how our Father has made us; we're alike in creation but different in purpose. Conformity will definitely prolong our fruition.

Simply, I cannot afford to maintain the same old same old with anyone. I need a refreshing, and only God can give it to me! The only one keeping me from where I need to be is me, and I definitely cannot afford to let anyone else! Jesus' circle is the only place anyone can receive salvation =)

Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19
And be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2

The Real Reason

So, it's Christmas morning, and I can't sleep! I have to be up early, but for some nostalgic reason I'm not the least bit tired. I began to write earlier about patience, and didn't feel the post going anywhere. Let's see where this goes.

Waiting is an art. Everyday, patience is tried. Bus stops, lines at the grocery store, the doctor's office. In our house, we always had to wait until the sun rose to unwrap gifts. Regardless, the waiting process usually has something to look forward to, which is funny because unlike the old days I'm not really looking forward to anything specific today (I just want to sleep now). Anyway, everything happens for a reason, and Jesus is the reason for everything. He's why we wait, why we get up in the morning, why we go to sleep (smiley face).

What if we had to wait for an unlimited amount of time? What could possibly be the result? Would it be rewarding, or pointless? Naturally, I can only liken such a situation to sitting in jail, which can be very agonizing. But, we as beings are used to having limits. Whether stretched or reduced, having no limits is dubious and downright next to impossible (sorry Percy), for us.

I'm so glad to know someone who has never had any limits. Someone who would share their capacity with me in any situation, WHENEVER I needed it. Where's my reasoning? In Jesus. Though I may have to wait on the Lord for many things, I know that He gives me the ability to have limitless faith in Him for everything! That's one thing that we as human beings have no real limits on. Faith in Jesus will make you wait for ever! I've been waiting to see what life really has to offer, but I know I won't see it until I'm in the presence of life- Jesus!

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 10:6
Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. 
Psalm 25:5
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. 
Isaiah 40:31

Merry Christmas to everyone. I love you all! Keep the Lord in your reasoning =)


This song is my JAM, Jesus Lives!!!!!

Travelling endurance

The things that we endure. Physically, mentally, spiritually. The body is able to withstand plenty of anguish, pain, fatigue, and even dehydration, until the moments of death. And even when that moment comes, there are chances of revival and resuscitation. We are creatures designed for survival.

Today is a glorious one! I know that I have not experienced my best days, though there are plenty of great days behind me. Expectation is resilient. It can endure even the most daunting, trivial and unfortunate moments. Although things look like they are going in the complete opposite direction of one's intent (may even be ), in the blink of an eye their expectation may be exceeded. I can't explain it, other than having own expectation exceeded in going to college. I knew I would go somewhere, but maybe only nearby; MSU would be stretching it. Never thought about getting into UM as well (Go Green). It's a sad commentary, that a great majority of black males in Detroit either drop out or make no effort to matriculate in higher ed. Am I special? Of course not. Chance and opportunity is given to all. (Ecclesiastes 9:11)

Let's take it a little further. While travelling, we go up, down and around many hills, steeps and slopes. Bear with me. Travelling presents many opportunities, decisions and changes in direction. Some benefit more than others. I have learned that where we get our directions from matters a whole lot. After trusting myself for so long, I only found myself stuck in the same valleys and awkward positions; just could not get over any hill! However, when you have a problem with your computer, remote or car, who do you question about it? The maker! "Thanks for calling Dell, how may I help you?" "Uh, yeah um this laptop you sold me crashed, I think it's still under warranty." "Okay, Sir, let's take care of that for you." We must go to our Maker for the proper direction, correction and restoration!

Endurance? What does this have to do with what I'm talking about? Well, had my hope for something better died out a long time ago, I'd still be stuck in that valley. Not only can we withstand physical distress, but the Lord will place us in faith-attacking situations, just to see who we call on! Once I stopped suffering for evil deeds, it's like all these other accusations came, just for believing in Jesus! But all throughout, He's been there for me to call on, which I absolutely adore about Him. It's gonna be His footsteps left in the sand, carrying me over the mountains. He's here for you as well. Give Him a ring.

And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. Psalm 50:15
Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 2:3
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105

This guy sounds black, but looks white!

Time, joy, trust

I've been a lazy bum today, due to staying up until 6am this morning. The day hasn't been lazy towards me though. Time is funny like that, one of the things that man has no real harness or control over. It can be managed and maximized only through our actions.

It's been said that in an average day, the human brain processes over 70,000 thoughts, about 1.2 per second (there are 86,400 seconds in a day). Wow. That means that, even if you ponder a particular decision or course of action, you are still maintaining other thoughts while coming to any resolve. So, whatever is or isn't on your mind has a say so in that decision! As I continue to digress, let's just say that I may as well have about 80,000 plus thoughts a day.

Keeping all of that in mind, is one's joy and peace predicated upon the decisions that they make? Or do they depend on given circumstances? Really, reply your answer before you continue reading. If joy were dependent upon our own decisions, then that would insinuate our thought processes having control over our experience... and that we are knowledgeable enough of what is right and wrong for us. So then, we would be able to please ourselves in all things and in any given situation. But we all know that occasions come where man has no clue what to do. Given all of the above, it is impossible to have no faith. I will attest that self faith only leads to utter destruction, however. Destruction of joy, hope, pleasure, etc. I might be able, for one moment, to temporarily find such joy. But it would not sustain all of the other moments that life throws.

Progress with me. Now, let's say things are lining up in one direction. A whole lot going. Even though I do not try to control these things, do they dictate my joy? Good job, loving wife & family, great neighborhood. Bills paid. Even though my father has just died (hypothetically), I still have all of these to fall back on. Happy?  I lose my job, my wife is getting paid, but same happiness? A fact is that, no matter what anyone's condition may be, anything can happen. This is where pure faith is inserted (here). Pure faith is that where our cumulative thoughts cause us to trust and hope within that power higher than ourselves, in the power of God. Such faith causes us to not trust our own selves, but to lean on the promises and grounds which are able to dictate our situation for the better; to trust in the fruition of God's Word. Stay with me!

I'm forced into a situation. I must make a decision. After thinking about it, I decide. Though everything looks terrible, I can try my best to get around it, to bring it to resolve. Or, I can go through the situation without a care, while truly depending on the power of God to trim the problems and while remaining faithful to His service. May sound crazy to some, but I have witnessed such help from God in the midst of the fire. The three Hebrew boys in Daniel 3 did as well, and had God with them the entire time, to confirm them while they were in the fiery furnace! They could have joined the crowd, and followed the dictation of Nebuchadnezzar. By faith, they stood out for God, and chose to react differently than their natural mind told them. Even if God wasn't going to deliver them, they had their mind up that they would continue to honor Him! And He did, because He was pleased by their faith. Simply, God is the giver of joy, and he only grants it when we do those things to please Him, by faith!

For God gives to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy... Ecclesiastes 2:26
But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that comes to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Hebrews 11:6
Thou will show me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16:11

Anyone can experience His joy!

The Spearhead

Who knew that starting a blog would be so easy? Not me. However, this is the first of maybe a few projects that I will begin in attempts to display some of the random activities that situate my mind. Some are futile, others provoke much thought. My original intent was to publish encouraging and uplifting pieces that many might identify with in sporadic situations... hopefully that will be accomplished as well.

There's a lunar eclipse tonight.  Some circumstances prevent us from certain shared experiences, which situations may prove to be good, bad or indifferent. For example, you're so caught up in debt that while struggling to pay one bill, you forget about your tuition bill and scramble at the last minute to register for classes. Or, the one day that you're not so broke, you're able to treat a good friend for dinner. Perhaps one day, you wake up for class, turn off the alarm and consciously go back to bed. Say there's a party going on, and you miss it. Just so happens that your buddies get shot at and one of your closest friends is killed. All of the above have happened to me. I guess that's why I'm not that pressed about making plans and keeping up with what everyone else is doing. I didn't get to see the eclipse, though it would have been nice to look at. It's pretty cloudy out anyway. 

This post is titled Spearhead, in hopes that there will be a nice follow through project behind it, though I'm not counting on it. I've actually taken up journaling as a hobby, which consists mostly of private entries, prayers, and hopes. This may just be for reflection, idea creation and commentary on the things pertaining to common experiences. Jesus is with me, and I plan to be with Him as well. There's so much to say about my Lord, so even if you do mind there will be plenty of exaltation in Him! One thing that I absolutely do not enjoy is self glory and boasting of myself. I am nobody. However, I am who I by the grace of God, and it's through my experiences that I've come to know Him! He's the greatest =)

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and he delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholds him with His hand. Psalm 37:23-24

Now listening to