Today we begin a four part series on raising loving and respectable children. We invite each of you to share your thoughts and ideas, and we know that you do have lots of them and we will include as many of them as possible in this series. We all can learn from each other and by sharing your experiences it might be just the one thing another parent could use to help teach their child respect and save their life.
We are living in very difficult times and raising Children is made more difficult for a variety of reasons and non-more so than the shrinking economy. It is causing heart-aches, pain and stresses in a lot of families, and sometimes causes them to over react and make very bad decisions that have a negative effect on their children and family life.
Our Children are under a lot of pressure and they are acting it out in the homes, schools, streets and everywhere else with all sorts of violent acts. When this begins to happen, people start point fingers and blaming others. There is enough blame to go around when some say that it is liberalism that has caused the violence. Others say that it is the removal of prayer from our schools. Some say it is the steady stream of violence we see in the movies, on the nightly news cast, on all sorts of TV Programs and especially the video games.
There are still others who blame the government for overtaxing its citizens, and forcing parents to have to abandon their children for the workplace.
When it comes to our children using guns to settle their differences, there are those who would blame the gun manufacturers and the gun dealers. But no where do we see anyone taking responsibility for what has happened. Not the parents, schools, churches, business, government or the youth themselves. Our U.S. Congress refuses to pass sensible Gun Laws that could be a help in stopping some of the Gun Violence, but No; everyone wants to place the blame on someone else.
It is time that we as parents begin to accept the major portion of responsibility and take control of our children’s lives and get the government out of our homes and bedrooms. We as parents are responsible for raising our children and it does take the whole community to be involved and always willing to lend a helping hand.
Now I encourage each one of you to share some of your experiences in raising your own children and we will begin posting them in part two of “PARENT’S RESPONSIBILITY.” Part Two will be posted on Thursday June 20, 2013.
Pastor Davis with Father Deacon Davis Byars Sr. Age 95 and still going strong
BY SISTER SHIRLEY RHODES
The PORTRAIT OF A FATHER is one of a special gift, because God has chosen them and placed them in charge of the family as a nurturer and provider. FATHERS’ are seen as the strong tower, the leader and diligently goes about seeking how to provide the many necessities essential to the family’s growth. Throughout time FATHERS’ have always sheltered their inner emotions simply because that is how society dictates. Life now paints a different picture for today’s FATHER.
When we think of a FATHER we think of the beginning (the creation) and know that he was created for a purpose and that purpose was for God’s enjoyment. God formed Man out of the dirt from the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life. The Man became a living soul! Genesis 2:7. God made a covenant with Abraham when he was ninety-nine years old, he said, “This is my covenant with you: You’ll be the FATHER of many nations, I’ll make nations from you, a covenant that includes your descendants, a covenant that goes on and on and on, a covenant that commits me to be your God and the God of your descendants. (Genesis 17:3-8 Mgs)
Today’s FATHER displays a sense of humor and honesty. They are diligently seeking how to be better at their assignment as a Father. As fathers’ they should strive to build and maintain strong bonds with those entrusted to their care. THE PORTRAIT OF A FATHER should be seen as one of showing honor, humor, honesty, caring, courage, character, grace, guidance while setting boundaries for appropriate behavior within the family. He should be one whom children look-up to as a role model as he follow the rule to love every-one. Now let us watch together this short video clip of Pastor Davis, Portrait of a Father:
The Bible tells us that, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Though he falls, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand.” (Psalm 37:23-24 KJV). Therefore, let us understand that a FATHER can and will make mistakes as he seeks to lead his family in the path that God has set out for him to do so.
Now listen to the words of Thomas More, he says, “Family life is full of major and minor crises—the ups and downs of health, success and failure—and all kinds of characters. It is tied to places and events and histories. With all of these felt details, life etches itself into memory and personality. It’s difficult to imagine anything more nourishing to the soul.”
The PORTRAIT OF A FATHER is one that none of us should take lightly. Let us lift up our eyes towards heaven and thank God, our HEAVENLY FATHER who has given us this opportunity to be a part of this earthly celebration this weekend to salute and honor all FATHERS who have stood the test of time and given of themselves to be FATHERS in spite of the many trials and tribulations they have had to endure.
HAPPY FATHER’S DAY TO ALL FATHERS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD AND MAY THE PEACE, LOVE AND JOY OF GOD OUR FATHER FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH MUCH JOY AND PEACE ON THIS SPECIAL FATHER’S DAY!
Good Morning to all God’s Children, the believers as well as the non-believers. If it is Sunday, it is time for our VIRTUAL CHURCHSUNDAY PRAYER PRAISE AND WORSHIP SERVICE. Today is a very special day that God has created in the life of His Children. A Day for all of us to Honor and Celebrate all the Fathers’ who will stand up and be Fathers, for you are truly a blessing to God, because He created you in His own image, likes and gave you His Character. Today, we Honor you, each and every one of you, because you are truly a blessing to your children, your family, your church, your community and your nation. Now Fathers, stand up in your HONOR, and be recognized as the WORLD honors you this day. “HAPPY FATHER’S DAY, We love you and appreciate each one of you!”
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE READING:Joshua 24:14-15 MSG
“So now: Fear God. Worship him in total commitment. Get rid of the gods your ancestors worshiped on the far side of The River (the Euphrates) and in Egypt. You, worship God.
“If you decide that it’s a bad thing to worship God, then choose a god you’d rather serve—and do it today. Choose one of the gods your ancestors worshiped from the country beyond The River, or one of the gods of the Amorites, on whose land you’re now living. As for me and my family, we’ll worship God.”
LET US PRAY: Most Holy God, our Heavenly Father; we honor you in worship this day with our prayers and praises for blessing us with Fathers of our Children, and providing a special day to lift them up in high honor. Father glorify them here on earth in such a way that each one of them may become the chosen leader of their family as a godly father, leading them in the path of righteousness and giving you honor for their chosen role as fathers in their own right. Bless each person that has taken the time to sit at the Spiritual Table of blessings this day in honor of this Father’s Day. We seek your blessings over all our leaders throughout the world this day Heavenly Father that you will guide each of them in such a way that they will become the godly leaders that you have chosen them to be over this Nation and all the Nations of the World. Let them lead the world into a position where peace stands stronger and the drums of peace beat louder than the drums of war. In Jesus name, AMEN!
OUR PRAISE SONG FOR TODAY FEATURES THE REX BAND: Click an enjoy this awesome video as you prepare your hearts and minds for this great message that God has given to His Servant, a truly mighty woman of the gospel who simply wants to be known as SISTER SHIRLEY.
OUR MESSENGER FOR THIS DAY IS: SISTER SHIRLEY RHODES
SISTER SHIRLEY RHODES (SELF PORTRAIT) DAILY i LIVE TO SERVE
SUBJECT: GOD SHOWERS HIS LOVE UPON ALL FATHERS
Today is FATHER’S DAY, and I want to speak directly to the hearts of all the real Fathers out there. You know who you are and in your heart of hearts, you also know that you are loved and appreciated for being a true and Godly Father. But there are also a great number of you out there who have become just sperm makers, you call yourselves a Father but in reality you have never accepted the role in which God created you for. You have stepped away from your responsibilities and neglected your children and your family. God is not pleased with you and I cannot see how you can be pleased with yourself.
Therefore, let us get one thing perfectly straight, we Mothers’ want you to take responsibility for your role as a Father and as the head of your family which God created you to be; we say to you today, Fathers, lift your head up, pull your shoulders back, stick your chest out and stand tall. You have been given an assignment and you are needed now more than ever in the lives of children every-where you journey make a difference in some-ones’ life that is you’re calling.
As FATHERS’ you wear labels and expectations from the family as well as society. You are given the task of being able to rule, guide, teach and make wise decisions and choices. In all of this you must remember your creator and look to him for instructions to apply to your lives.
We as Mother’s have had to step up to the plate, and take on the role of both Mother and Father, and that is not a role any Mother desires to play. Our desire is for you as the Father of our Children to become their role models, and lead them as God has directed you to do. We are tired of burying our Children because they have not been able to find their way in this life, but have chosen other unworldly people as their role models and become lawless, some committing crimes and others just hanging out and being gunned down for no other reason, other than being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Fathers you are needed to love nurture and guide your Children to that high place God has chosen for them to be.
Now listen to how Jesus encourages your hearts with these words: “He says, As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you: abide in my love. If you keep my commandments you shall abide in my love: Even as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love (John 15:9-10). Therefore, we encourage you father’s to learn to live as Jesus did, be obedient to the word, keep the commandments that Jesus has given to you and you will be showered with many blessings from on high.
This is my commandment; Love one another as I have loved you (12).
Today is truly Fathers’ Day, let it be a day we all pause and give thanks for their patience, love and guidance. And when we learn to do this, we can speak truth to power and say out loud “TO GOD BE THE GLORY!”
God bless all Fathers’ this special day, and FATHERS’ use your unique gift of love to bless others and together we can make the world a better place. HAPPY FATHERS’ DAY TO ALL FATHERS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD! In the name of JESUS, AMEN!
LET US PRAY: Father we thank you for the opportunity to have ministered your word to the many people you have sent into this class room of higher learning this day. We pray that the seeds of truth that were sown will sprout and manifest in joy, peace and love everlasting, and all the fathers will experience a rebirth and be regenerated as fathers of a new generation that will help to bring forth fully armed godly children. In Jesus name, AMEN!
Let us close this chapter of our Sunday Prayer Praise and Worship Service with, “YOU ARE MY HERO!” Click and watch, then share all that you have learned today by blessing another with this message.
PLEASE RETURN FOR OUR SUNDAY AFTERNOON FATHER’S DAY SPECIAL
THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR IN THE BREAKDOWN OF THE HOME IS FATHERS NOT FULFILLING THEIR BIBLICAL ROLE OF LEADERSHIP IN THE HOME. This is the most important reason for unhappy families.
God says, worship is to be led by the father. “For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him and they shall keep the way of the Lord to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him” (Genesis 18:9).
Most fathers I know could care less. This is a wicked thing. There is more to being a father than just producing children. The lack of leadership by the father today in every area is the most important factor in the breakdown of the American home. I pray the Lord will give us more men like Joshua.
Joshua 24:14-15, “Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom you will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: BUT AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, WE WILL SERVE THE LORD.”
There has to be a consecration by dad. There is more to a marriage than just living together in a physical relationship.
Lack of godly male leadership brings about the disastrous consequences of rebellion, delinquency, and sexual promiscuity. Divorce is usually caused by a father not taking his Biblical responsibilities and is something God hates, (See Malachi 2:12-17. Matthew 19:5-6.)
The most important cause of divorce in America is the lack of proper, godly leadership by the father and husband. It is also the most frequent cause of children’s feelings of rejection, behavioral problems, and anxieties. Ephesians 6:1-4. Notice in verse 4, “And ye fathers provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” The word “wrath” means a strong desire to avenge. How does a father provoke a child to wrath? By not bringing him up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; Nurture means training with structure. Most fathers have no desire for the Word of God and they are raising angry vengeful children because they are not committed to training their children in spiritual principles as God commands. Of course, they cannot train the child if they are ignorant of God’s principles themselves. That is a picture of the American father.
David Blankenhorn in his 1995 book, “Fatherless America,” says “the culture change from a stable, two parent home to the father’s abandonment of his responsibilities of marriage and parenting is America’s most urgent social problem. The father’s absence is the main reason for unhappy homes, many current social problems, and is a national crisis of our time.”
According to the National Fatherhood Institute, 40% of the children in the United States have not seen their father for a year! In the last 15 years “fatherless” children jumped from 10.2 million to 15.6 million. 70% of juveniles in detention centers and reformatories are children of fatherless homes. Statistics indicate that “violent criminals” are overwhelmingly males who grew up without a father’s leadership. This includes 60% of America’s rapists, 72% of adolescent murders, and 70% of long-term prison inmates. One out of every four high school seniors graduate functionally illiterate. It is more than a physical presence. There are many homes where a father is there, but that is all. They want all their needs fulfilled, but do not want to take the spiritual, godly, or normal leadership that God intended. Instead children grow up listening to their parents fight, cuss, yell, scream, spend money on all kinds of entertainment and material possessions trying to be happy.
The father’s failure to take responsibility and leadership in the home has created a valueless, unhappy, fractured home and society. This failure has had a devastating effect on our children and has spawned a multitude of wicked societal problems including delinquency, sexual promiscuity, drug use, and violence.
The family is in trouble in America because men fail to be the leaders God wants them to be. We desperately need to pray for the men of this country to do as God has commanded. The results of the men not obeying God have been disastrous. The great need is for men to repent of their sins, to really come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, and then to be obedient to the commands of God from His Word. Men must be the leaders God desires them to be. May God help us to pray for the men of America.
In order for a person to be a great leader in any calling, that person first must gain the most important asset
PHOTO OF MY SPIRITUAL FATHER DR. OLIVER DORSEY AND PASTOR DAVIS MY SPIRITUAL FATHER PROVIDED ME WITH WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE
of all, and that is, “WISDOM and KNOWLEDGE.” The two fit together like hand and glove. James said, “If any of you lacks WISDOM, he should ask GOD, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5 NIV).
When you have acquired the KNOWLEDGE of who she is and the sweetness of her aromas in your life, you now have obtained the power to begin building greatness in your life. Because when you have rubbed shoulders with LADY WISDOM, you have been given the ability to use the best means at the best time to accomplish the greatest results. I can assure you that without the knowledge and power that LADY WISDOM provides you, success in any calling will always elude you.
In our role as leaders, our first and most important priority is the LEADERSHIPwithin our own family. As a FATHER, we seek to provide the type of leadership for our children to succeed in life. Especially when a son is involved, the father will make every effort to teach his son the truth of who LADY WISOM is in his life and the effects that LADY WISDOM can have on his future providing he adhere to her teachings. Now listen to the advice given to a son from the book of Proverbs.
This message begins with a concrete no holds barred advise. It starts with a command to gain the attention of the listener. He says, “Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain UNDERSTANDING. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching. For I too was a son to my father, still tender, and cherished by my mother;
Then he taught me, and he said to me, “Take hold of my words with all your heart; keep my commands, and you will live. Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Cherish her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you. She will give you a garland to grace your head and present you with a glorious crown.”
Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. I instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to my instruction; do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life. Do not set foot on the path of the wicked or walk in the way of evildoers. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn from it and go on your way. (Proverbs 4:1-15 NIV)
Now let us understand the message that this father was teaching in this lesson, if there was one thing that this father wanted for his son to acquire in life it was truly wisdom and the knowledge of LADY WISDOM. As this father saw it, if the son were to posse’s wisdom, he would find life, safety and honor. This father was single-minded. Rather than urging his son to pursue success and recognition, he exhorted him to:“get wisdom;” not forsake wisdom,” “esteem” and “embrace” wisdom. Carrying out his father’s ideals would no doubt require serious effort and diligence. But if the son did acquire wisdom, the benefits would flow from it like water from a cup.
Now please allow me to conclude this lesson with these final words from Matthew. “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” (Matthew 7:24-27 NIV).
You are truly the master of your destination, now seek out LADY WISDOM, and allow her to stir the beauty that lies asleep in the depths of your soul. She is only a thought away, awaken her and “SEEK THE SWEET AROMAS OF WISDOM AND DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF HER SOUL.
A TEACHABLE MOMENT FOR PASTOR DAVIS WITH TWO OF HIS GRAND CHILDREN
WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES
Who share in the responsibility of nurturing and grooming the next generation in roles of leadership even in the home? FATHERS HOLD THE KEY TO THE NEXT GENERATION:
A Father is placed in the position as “The Head” and not the tail, which means that is the position Goddesignated him to be, from the very beginning of creation. Adam is known as the first created father, molded and designed by God with his own similarities. God took time to create something special to share in every-thing he had made in the physical environment, establishing a relationship in which to shower his love and care upon. Even though throughout a period of time that bond was broken by temptations from Satan, his love for his creation remains.
Consider fathers of every creed, color and national origin, they all are fathers designed for a purpose. Along the way God gave the charge to produce and replenish, that included children. The great responsibilities of fathers are to be someone children can identify with and learn from.
Godly fathers are placed in position to serve as leaders, role models and providers which begins in the home. Fathers hold within themselves the ability to propel children to reach goals others might not see or understand. There will always be the connection and responsibility of Godly fathers to instill in all children faith and hope in them-selves, simply because they tend to see value in them the way Jesus did.
Fathers are extended branches of how God has designed the family and connecting their role as providers and nurtures. Today too many excuses are given as to how our youth have wandered from the original plan of God and questioning why they seem so out of touch with the true meaning for their lives. Somewhere along the line principles of wisdoms’ teaching have not been equally dispersed to our young men and women.
Fathers as examples should share their own life experiences as role models to encourage those struggling to find acceptance and or their place in society. Extended families are becoming a thing of the past; therefore, men (fathers) are expected to take up the torch of leadership and guide young men toward the heights God has prepared just for them. The prophecy of Isaiah reminds us this way; even the youths shall faint and be weary, the young men shall utterly fall: but they that wait on the Lord shall be refreshed, they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint (Isaiah 40:30-31).
This is a challenge to all Fathers; help our youth to gain wisdom and knowledge that will steer them on the right course. Fathers as leaders and role models hold the key to lifting young men to position and power when allowing God to take the lead. The future will come, what will our leaders really be like if they are not taught responsibility, respect, leadership and character as well as the value of family?
THE MINDS’ EYE BLACK AND WHITE IMAGE GALLERY PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS
Listen, my son, be wise,
and steer your life on the right course. Do not spend time with heavy wine drinkers
or those who gorge themselves on meat. For both the drunk and the glutton will end up broke,
sleeping life away, and clothed in rags.
Pay attention to your father—after all, he gave you life—
and don’t ignore your mother in her old age. Invest in truth, sock it away!
Never cash in wisdom, guidance, or insight. The parents of the right-living will celebrate;
yes, parents of children who make wise choices are happy.
So make your parents happy;
delight your mother—after all, she brought you into this world.
My son, devote yourself to me fully.
Observe my ways, and follow my directions: Being drawn to a prostitute is like falling down into a deep well,
and being involved with a wicked woman is like descending into a narrow well. You may never get out alive. She waits for you, ready to ambush you like a thief
and ready to multiply unfaithfulness among men.
Who is wallowing in anguish? Who is full of sorrow?
THE WINE DRINKERS Whenever I wake up from this stupor, I’ll have another drink!”
Who has conflicts? Who has complaints?
Who has bruises and can’t remember where they came from?
Who has bloodshot eyes? You know who: those who stay up late finishing off the wine,
those who can’t stop savoring spiced wines. Look away from the enticing beauty of wine, the deep red hue; ignore how it shimmers in the cup
and glides down your throat. Eventually, when you least expect it, it strikes like a snake;
it stings like viper venom. Your vision will blur, and you’ll imagine strange things;
you will say crazy, hurtful things and regret it later. You will reel and stagger as if caught on a wave of seasickness,
as a sailor who holds on to a mast for dear life. You will say, “They slapped me, but it didn’t hurt.
They beat me, and I didn’t feel a thing!
Whenever I wake up from this stupor,
I’ll have another drink!”
WILL FATHERS STAND UP AND BECOME GODLY LEADERS IN THEIR FAMILIES?
A FATHER AND SON MOMENT WITH PASTOR DAVIS AND HIS SON MAXIMILLION
WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES
This is truly a very important question that most Fathers need to understand and ask, and then seek answers from God. This is what the Word of God says to all Fathers. “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4 ESV)
Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6). Fathers, instruct children to “keep vigilant watch over their heart; that’s where life starts” (4:23).”
Too many fathers have no desire for the Word of God and they are raising angry vengeful children because they are not committed to training their children in spiritual principles as God commands. Of course, they cannot train the child if they are ignorant of God’s principles themselves. That is a picture of the American father as I see it today.
We know that sometimes fathers fail to accept the responsibility God has given them toward their wives and children. Many fathers pursue their own selfish interests thus abandoning the role God has given them.
Whenever Fathers fail to fulfill their role of Godly Leadership, the responsibility for leading their children will wrongly pass to a child’s peer group, a school or even the television. When an absent parent’s egoistic barked orders are met with resistance and rebellion, out of frustration and impatience a worldly Father might then even further discourage his children by cursing them. Instead, every Father needs to accept the leadership roles God has given him. This will require Fathers to possess a heart devoted to God, to show their children how to live and to model serving others through love.
Now let us take a closer look the Leadership role that a Father has been given and try to UNDERSTAND A FATHERS’ HEART.
His strength encourages, his love guides; he is protector and provider; he instills wisdom by sharing his own life experiences. A father wears many hats while diligently seeking the best for all children, not just his own. UNDERSTANDING A FATHERS’ HEART allows us to see the wisdom God has given him so that he might serve as a light for those entrusted to his care. A real father seeks God for guidance before making decision that will affect a child in life. Children, if you don’t have that man in your life; always remember you have it in God, he is your Father.
UNDERSTANDING A FATHERS’ HEART is about understanding the person in that role who takes on the challenge of serving as a well-spring of resource and knowledge that can guide young hearts toward the road they will travel in life. It is a big responsibility, one not to be taken lightly, because in the eyes of God, children are precious beings. Teaching them about love will influence their relationships in life as they grow. A real father is expected to guide, discipline and lead by example while instilling the true meaning of character into those he lead.
Proverbs teaches much about parent child relationship and responsibilities which helps in understanding a fathers’ heart. Fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Proverbs 1:7 MGS). My son, hear the instruction of your father; do not forsake the law of your mother for they will be a graceful ornament on your head and chains about your neck (verse 8, 9).
UNDERSTANDING A FATHERS’ HEART helps us to understand the charge in relation to obedience. Children are to do what their parents tell them, the promise is this, “Honor your father and mother so you will live a long life.” Fathers are not to exasperate their children by coming down hard on them, but take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master (Ephesians 6: 1-4 MGS).
A father with wisdom and understanding is an honor, a gift from God; he diligently shares wise teachings and encourages as he encounter struggles among his children. He is about pursuing his purpose in life as a teacher, leader, brother and most of all a father. Celebrate Fathers’ Day in a very special way; make “UNDERSTANDING A FATHERS’ HEART” your gift by letting someone you know or admire that they are appreciated for all they share. Be thankful to your heavenly Father for allowing you the opportunity to share in the blessing of earthly fathers.
“Many-a-father have traveled the road you’ve yet to travel.” We send our Blessings to all Fathers that this week will encourage you to make an extra effort to be a Strong and Godly Father that will help your Children and all Children that God will send into your pathway to themselves become Godly Children.
Come and partake of something greater than self, take a moment, Draw from the Well of Righteous.
REFLECTIONS (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
Knowing what is right is like deep water in the heart; a wise person draws from the well within (Proverbs: 20:5). Even if we should find ourselves wandering away from the path we’re on, God never release us because we belong to him. It is when we tend to live life on our term that we encounter many obstacles; when we strive to gain comfort and safety apart from God, we find ourselves getting further and further away from the source, the very nature of who we truly are.
Jesus offers us the plan of salvation and invites us to come and Draw from the Well of Righteous. He says, “Come to me, all you who are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, you will find rest for your souls. My yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). So, when we find that life throws difficult moments into our space, reflect on these words, “Come to the throne of grace where all needs are met.”
Take a moment to reflect on the biblical presentation of the lady at the well. Many analogies have been discussed as to why she was at the well at a specific time and her lifestyle. Maybe this woman never took time to learn about Jesus or had even heard of him simply because she chose to live life on her own terms. She must have been a lady with an open mind because she listened to Jesus reveal details of her life, the time and moment was right for her to draw from the Well of Righteous, she was in the right place at the right time. She could have been someone who needed to hear a kind word, those very words Jesus spoke to her, opened her understanding to the one who was always there.
Another example is Rehab, described as a “harlot” who was frequented by strangers and probably judged by society. God placed her in a position that would leave a lasting impression in history of scripture. Apparently Rehab had heard of the awesome power of God and pondered it deep in her heart. She offered refuge to God’s chosen, so she too must have been a person with an open mind. By her actions of kindness to Joshua and his companions she was able to secure peace and safety for her entire family and relatives simply because she moved in obedience, she was able to draw from the well of righteous.
Today we journey through life not knowing who or what we may encounter along the way. One thing is sure, if we approach life with an open mind and be obedient, we too will reap the benefits of being able to draw from the well of righteous, freely given to those who decide to seek.
As you begin this week’s journey traveling the road with many curves and detours, with Satan snapping at your heels as he lays obstacles in your pathway, “BE ENCOURAGED,” by the voice of Jesus, when He says’ that He will never leave you nor forsake you; understand the teaching Jesus is teaching as you walk daily with Him, “DRAW YOUR STRENGTH FROM THE WELL OF RIGHTEOUS!”
BE THANKFUL FOR YOUR BLESSINGS WHEN YOU ASK GOD TO ENLARGE YOUR TERRITORY…
Good Morning Children of God, if it’s Sunday Morning, it is time to enter into our Virtual Church for our SUNDAY PRAYER, PRAISE AND WORSHIP SERVICE. Are you ready to lift up God and give Him your heart this morning as we reflect on His Mercy and Grace that He has shared with each of us throughout the week? Know that you have been blessed abundantly by just being alive and having the ability to come in and worship with us on another day, For God is truly good and His mercies extends through all generations.
LET US PRAY: Merciful God our Heavenly Father, we humble ourselves in prayer before your throne of grace this morning, seeking your blessings over the lives of all your Children; that you will open their hearts to receive their Spiritual blessings you have set at the table of grace before them this day. Allow them to live in Peace as you bring healing into their physical bodies. Renew their Spiritual Minds and put a hedge around them in order that they will find security in their Neighborhoods. Strengthen their Minds that they may raise up against all evil where ever it may be found, and allow them to embrace the newness and fullness of this brand new day. In Jesus name we pray, AMEN!
OUR SCRIPTURE READING: (HABAKKUK 2:2-4 KJV) Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie; though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.
Now let us open our hearts and minds to receive God’s Holy Word this morning, as Pastor Davis comes forth to teach our Worship Service Lesson this Morning. Click on this video clip and let’s begin our Sunday Service.
LET US PRAY: Father we thank you for the message you have shared with us, we thank you for the messanger. We pray that this message will be a blessing to all those who have set at the table and received into their spirit the fruits that you have provided to them this morning. Now Father, allow them to go out and use this lessons to uplift them unto that high place that you have prepared for them and desire for them to be. In Jesus name, AMEN!
It truly is a happy day and we hope that this service has been a blessing and inspiration to your soul in some small way. Now reach out and touch someone’s hand today, give them a hug and tell them that God loves them and so do you. Be Encouraged with your walk with Jesus doing the course of this great week that lies ahead of you. Walk by faith and not by sight. Thank you for joining us again this Sunday Morning. We love you and appreciate all that you do in helping to build up the Kingdom of God.
Heavenly Father, I begin this day of praise and thanksgiving because you are such an awesome God with all power in your hands. As I look towards the hills, from which all my blessings flow. I realize that each day I am given the opportunity to experience the fullness of your majestic love, the love that sustains me and all that you have placed before me, my heart is filled with humility and I can do nothing but fall on my needs and pray this prayer:
The great and mighty God of all the Universe, I Humbly bow before you this day in the name of your son Jesus, I want to thank you for what you have already done in my life and the lives of those you have placed under my care. Lord Jesus our Heavenly Father, I call out your name because it is truly the name that is above all other names. I seek to come into your present this morning, that you will hear the voice of one of your humble servants. I am moving ahead this day Heavenly Father, and I am not going to wait until I see results or receive rewards; I am thanking you right now.
I am not going to wait until I feel better or things look better; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until people say they are sorry or until they stop talking about me; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until the pain in my body disappears; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until my financial situation improves; I am going to thank you right now. I am not going to wait until the children are asleep and the house is quiet; I am going to thank you right now.
I am not going to wait until I am promoted, or until I get the job; I am going to thank you right now. I am not going to wait until I understand every experience in my life that has caused me pain or grief; I am thanking you right now. I am not going to wait until the journey gets easier or the challenges are removed; I am thanking you right now.
I am thanking you because I am alive. I am thanking you because I made it through the day’s difficulties. I am thanking you because I have walked around the many obstacles that were placed in my pathway on this journey.
I am thanking you because I have the ability and the opportunity to do more and do better and rise to the level that you have chosen me for.
I am thanking you because FATHER, YOU have not left me nor put on me more than I can bear, nor given up on me.
There is nothing that is more important to me right now than to thank you and praise your holy name because you are worthy to be praised.
Now take a moment and relax your mind and reflect upon the goodness of God and what He is doing in your life as He blesses you moment by moment. Click on this video and allow your mind to be bathe in all of God’s love and beauty that He shares with you day by day.
Know that you are truly loved and in all things, God has a blessing with your name on it. Just name it and claim it. It is now yours to enjoy. Peace and blessing be with you My Friends, now and always, in Jesus name, AMEN!
CATHEDRAL CHURCH OF ST.PAUL EPISCOPAL ANGLICAN OF DETROIT MI. EMPOWERING YOU WITH SPIRITUAL KNOWLEDGE (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
Our message today is a direct response to one of our readers and fellow bloggers that was posted on an article written a few days ago title: “YOU ARE CREATED WITH POWER AND FOR A REASON!” You can go back and read the article and all the comments by clicking on this link: http://wp.me/pf75v-2F8/
After Diana, My Dear Sister in Christ proposed this question to us; “When was the last time you had to remedy a situation with a weak link, in your family or Church? [Refresher....because you talk with so many....I wrote the Question of Human Suffering?”
I told her that rather than just responding to her question with a short note, I would write an article title: “FAITH IN HUMAN SUFFERNG WILL PROVIDE HEALING TO THE HUMAN BODY!” The title came to me instantly while reading and meditating on her question, I said My God, My God how marvelous you really are, thank you, thank you. You are truly my provider, and you will provide to all of us all we need at the very moment and time we need it.
WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY OF DETROIT, MI. THE INSTITUTE FOR HIGHER LEARNING KNOWLEDGE AND POWER (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
Let me begin by adding a few points to the first part of her question. Because our employer is Jesus Christ and our Mission is to make Disciples, daily we are confronted with situations where people have fallen by the way side and find it difficult to pick themselves up and turn their lives around. They have become one of the weak links in the Church, the Community as well as their family, and our job is to help restore them back to the right relationship with Jesus Christ.
Recently I met a man who was living in a homeless shelter; he was married with three young children. He had a Master Degree in Business, and had worked for several years in the automotive industry. His company was downsized and he lost his job, his home and now he was about to lose what matter to him the most, and that was his wife and young children. This man had become the weak link in his family, as well as his community, and was having a very difficult time with all that was happening to him. His health was failing and his spirit was broken. What he needed most was Jesus and at that very moment he could not see it. At this point, my job is to help restore him back to the right relationship with Jesus, by encouraging him to walk by faith and not by sight. Sometimes God has to break us in order to make us.
In analysis of faith, suffering, healing and the human body we are able to relate to spirituality in combination with mortal (flesh). Combining these elements we bring into subjection mind over matter, our thought process, the passageway to wholeness.
The physical body is just that, physical, subject to the elements that surrounds it in its natural state. The spirit that inhabits the human body is God given, he has breathed his breath into it; therefore, suffering develops faith within human suffering. Faith that is centered and focused brings healing and health to the physical body, it serves as a stimulus to the cells, and tissue that makes up the human entity of who we really are. You can speak to the cells in your body, command them to heal, and they will obey your command.
We often think of life here on this earth as all that there is and we hesitate to venture into the unknown simply because we have not allowed the process of thought to lead us. Even when we experience an altered state in our health, we focus on what is happening within the physical body rather than the spiritual where healing is plentiful. Without faith we are not able to comprehend the awesome power of God in reality.
If we think for a moment and consider the teachings of Jesus (his words are truth) we will understand how he has given the authority and power to his followers, remember what he said to his disciples, “Go, preach, heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils, freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:5-8). When his “hour” had come, Jesus prayed to his Father for his followers, “The glory which you gave me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. I in them, and you in me, so that they may be made perfect in one,” His teaching of Love is an avenue for healing. Consider the infirm woman talked about in scripture (Luke 13:10-17) bound by the Devil for eighteen years, unable to walk straight. She allowed her past to rob her of her strength and vitality, her will to move forward in life. This lady had to struggle to get to Jesus and when she made contact she was set free of her infirmity. There will come moments in life when we must release things and people in order to be free.
Christ suffered for us in the flesh; we are to arm ourselves with the same mind toward one another and life. 1Peter 4:12-13 reminds us this way, “beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trials which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you, but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s suffering, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.” We are freely given, wisdom, knowledge, strength and understanding, it’s up to us to make the choice.
Now I encourage each one of you, when you talk the talk and say that you have “FAITH,” don’t let it be just another word you say to make others believe you truly do know what you are talking about, learn to walk the walk and know without an ounce of doubt that, “FAITH IN HUMAN SUFFERING WILL PROVIDE HEALING TO THE HUMAN BODY!”
Let me encourage you to go and visit our fellow blogger’s blog that inspired us to write this article, you can contact her at:
We thank each of you for reading and studying with us daily. You are truly a disciple of Jesus Christ and we have Ministered this lesson to you today from a position of Peace, Power, Purpose and Prosperity.
GROWING UP IN GOD’S GRACE ENCOURAGING EACH OTHER (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
We are all CHILDREN OF GOD, weather we are Believers are Non-Believers. God allows the Sun to rise and shine its face on all of us. We are all neighbors, relatives, friends and co-workers regardless of what part of the world we may live in; we live together in this world under the authority of God, and God tells us to judge not, less you be judged. So I ask, “Why is it so difficult for us to live in peace and harmony with one another without always JUDGING AND CONDEMING ONE ANOTHER?”
Please understand this one truth, and that is, there is always a right way and a wrong way of doing anything. When we lift a brother are sister up and provide them with a word of encouragement instead of sticking a knife into them, God will bless you abundantly. God has given you the power to make the choice, how you use that power will determine your destiny in this world. Now listen to what God commands you to do.
He says, “Don’t bad-mouth each other, friends. It’s God’s Word, his Message, and his Royal Rule, which takes a beating in that kind of talk. You’re supposed to be honoring the Message, not writing graffiti all over it. God is in charge of deciding human destiny. Who do you think you are to meddle in the destiny of others?” (James 4:11-12 MSG)
While a man is involved in sin he will condemn others who are likewise involved and the deeper and greater his sin the more severe will be his condemnation of others. It is only when a man begins to sorrow for his sin, and so to rise above it into the clearer light of purity and understanding, that he ceases from condemning others and learns to sympathies with them.
The truly good and wise man condemns no one; having put away all blind passion and selfishness he lives in the calm regions of love and peace, and understands all modes of sin, with their consequent sufferings and sorrows. Enlightened and awakened, freed from all selfish bias, and seeing men as they are, his heart responds in holy sympathy with all. Should any condemn, abuse, or slander him he throws around them the kindly protection of his sympathy, seeing the ignorance which prompts them so to act, and knowing that they alone will suffer for their wrong acts.
Now in closing, I will leave you with God’s final word in hopes that it will lift you up out of your sinful nature of Judging and Condemning your fellowman. Here is what God has to say to you, “So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.” (James 4:7-10 MSG)
Now I say to you “ENCOURAGE SOMEONE IN THE LORD TODAY.” Think globally as you work locally in your church and community to help bring about a change in someone’s life this day. We minister to you from a position of peace, purpose, power and prosperity.
WHEN GOD SPEAKS IT’S TIME TO LISTEN, BECAUSE GOD IS GOD ALL BY HIMSELF
WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES
GOD WATCHES OVER US FROM HIGH ABOVE (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
From high in the skies God looks around, from where he sits, he overlooks all he has shaped into being, watching everything we do. His eyes are watching over all His Children and all that He has created; he waits patiently and listens to those who call out to him for help. Immersing yourself, your thoughts into scripture and developing an appreciation for which God is, you will soon discover that you’re at your best when listening to God (the Holy Spirit) speak, and here is what it says, click on this video clip, watch and listen:
God says, “I don’t think the way you think; the way you work isn’t the way I work. The words that come out of my mouth will not come back to me empty-handed; they’ll do the work I sent them to do, they’ll complete the assignment I gave them” (Isaiah 55:6-11). Are you listening to God Speak?
When you’re open and willing to change the way you think, you are open to receive insight into God. Paul penned it this way: Be not conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may demonstrate what is that good, acceptable, and perfect will of God (Romans:12:2).
Quiet down before God, humble yourself to pray, keep nothing back and release everything you’re seeking to God, he will do whatever needs to be done. Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder (11-12). Stay focused, stay centered, because without a doubt your blessings will come, remember God sees, hears and know every detail of our existence. Are you listening to him speaking?
Wait patiently for God, don’t allow your thoughts to wander or waver, open your heart in sincere reverence and faith. Know this, God is your Guardian, he guards you from every evil, he guards your very life. He guards you when you leave and when you return, he guards you now and always; he won’t let you stumble (Psalm 121:3-8).
When faced with life’s struggles, find a quiet place and put your confidence in God, open your ears and heart, you will find peace while listening to God speaking calm into your life, your situation. He knows our weary hearts far better than we do and he has promised to always be there, just call on him.
GOD’S FACE SHINES ON US (PHOTO BY SHIRLEY RHODES)
Kneel in worship and thank God for everything, for his love, faithfulness and his Holy Word that guides and direct each of us in so many ways, come boldly to the throne of Grace. Are you listening to God speaking?
GOD’S DESTINY FOR MAN AND WOMAN WAS HIGHER AND MORE NOBLER THAN ANY OTHER CREATURE (Genesis 1:26-28)
The Bible describes the origin of the sexes as a creative act of God. Evolution has never been able to explain how the sexesbegan. Humanity was commanded to be fruitful and multiply. Now watch this short video clip and we will meet on the other side.
God said, Let Us [Father, Son, and Holy Spirit] make mankind in Our image, after Our likeness, and let them have complete authority over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the [tame] beasts, and over all of the earth, and over everything that creeps upon the earth.
So God created man in His own image, in the image and likeness of God He created him; male and female He created them.
The crown of God’swork was the creation of man in Hisimage and according to Hislikeness. This means that man was placed on earth as God’srepresentative, and that He resembles God in certain ways. Just as God is a Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), so man is a tripartite being (spirit, soul, and body). Like God, man has intellect, a moral nature, the power to communicate with others, and an emotional nature that transcends instinct. There is no thought of physical likeness here. In contrast to animals, man is a worshiper, an articulatecommunicator, and a creator.
From the beginning God’s heart to build a dwelling place for Himself in the Earth is seen in His creation of man and woman—together, the foundation of the house of the Lord. Through the two of them together, He intended to live and reveal Himself in the world. Through them God intended to manifest His character and authority(image), express His dominion over the Earth, display His indisputable power over the works of darkness, and subdue His archenemy, Satan. The first man and woman were a microcosm of the church, signaling that God’s glory would forever be seen in the Earth through the combined expression of male and female. Now, as then, God’s blessing—His promise of success—is upon our unity.
These verses also reveal to us just how God meant for man’s intrinsic value to be, his human worth and divinedestiny. God made sure that man was distinct from the rest of His creation. The Divine Triune Counsel determined that man was to have God’s image and likeness. Man is a spiritual being who is not only body, but also soul and spirit. He is a moral being whose intelligence, perception, and self-determination far exceed that of any other earthly being.
These properties or traits possessed by mankind and his prominence in the order of creation imply the intrinsic worth, not only of the family of mankind, but also of each human individual.
Capacity and ability constitute accountability and responsibility. We should never be pleased to dwell on a level of existence lower than that on which God has made it possible for us to dwell. We should strive to be the best we can be and to reach the highest levels we can reach. To do less is to be unfaithfulstewards of the life entrusted to us.
Now let us understand, after having been made out of the dust of the ground, a humanbegins as any other creature—a biologicalentity. The creaturely existence, however, is insufficient to describe the human being, for man becomes the crowning act of creation and is distinguished as being different—God literally breathes life into man.
Unlike the rest of creation, a human being has been created in a covenantrelationship to God and has an exceptionally high and distinct value and destiny. The likeness of man to the Creator is in the form and function of personal unity. God designed the human personality to consist of self-consciousness and self-determination, with both the freedom and the awareness to respond to God, to other human beings, and to the environment. He also designed a destiny for man far higher and nobler than that of any other creature. When God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness,” He had planned from the foundation of the world a glorious future for those who would choose the redeeming grace of Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:4-6).
To God the father, the creator of all there is, to Him be the glory. In the name of Jesus, we have ministered to you from a position of peace, power, purpose and prosperity. I remain your brother in Christ, Pastor Davis/Master Teacher.
THE SYMBOL OF GOD’S AMAZING GRACE (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
It’s God’s Plan for all to know and understand why he chose to sacrifice his Son.
When God breathe the breath of life into humans we were all given a great gift that was God’s plan. As we grow and mature we develop qualities of strength and endurance. God’s plan often brings us to a point where we realize we are solely dependent on him; that moment of dependence places us in a position to open our entire soul so God can come in and minister to us portions of his love in such a way our lives gradually find order.
We are all familiar with scripture and how Jesusmethodically designed and presented his teachings on life and the way to salvation. It’s God’s Plan that we are able to grasp the true meaning of our lives; therefore, his Son was his gift for that very reason.
As Jesus shared thoughts and teachings he knew that his closest followers had been given insight into God’s kingdom. Jesus knew that not everybody has the gift of insight; the kind of insight with a ready heart so that understanding can flow freely. If there is no desire to receive his teachings people soon lose interest; his teachings in parables were to create readiness, to nudge the people toward receptive insight. In this worldly state without open thoughts and hearts we can go to church, listen to others teach and still not understand the meaning behind the message Jesus taught.
When anyone hears the news of the kingdom and don’t take it in, it just remains on the surface which give the Evil One opportunity to come along and pluck it out of that person’s heart. There are those who receive the word and respond with enthusiasm, as soon as the emotion wears off, difficulty arrives, they falter. Some hear kingdom news but allow worry and illusions about getting more and wanting everything under sun to strangle what was heard and nothing comes of it. But those who hear and take in the News, become productive as kingdom builders. It’s God’s Plan we must follow and his Son has shown the way.
Presented at our Virtual Church here on the world stage where everyone is WELCOME and has the same opportunity to work in God’s Kingdom and make Disciples where ever you may be. Now come on in and be a part of a BRAND NEW MOVEMENT that is ordered by GOD!
THE HOLY TEMPLE (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
Good Morning Children of God, if it is Sunday it is time for you to get up, stand up, look up, thank God, and then Break out in Praises to God. Grab your Sunday go meeting garments, slip on your shouting shoes and let’s get ready to break out in Praise, Prayer and Worship for the one who has done so much for us this week. Through many trials and tribulations, He brought us through it all. No weapon that was formed against us was able to prosper within us, because the one, who can see all things, be all things and do all things but fail, had our backs. Now can you say thank you Lord. I made it over the rough side of the mountain this week; therefore I know I can make it through the next and the next. I am walking with my head hung high, I got a smile on my face and a strut in my walk, and faith in my heart with prayer as my weapon, now move over Satan, I got a brand new attitude and nothing are no one is going to stop me now.
LET US PRAY: Most Holy God our Heavenly Father, I pause my worldly thoughts this morning that I may thank you for bringing me through the many obstacles that came into my pathway this week. Right now Heavenly Father I’m thanking you for allowing me to put on this Holy garment that shines brighter than any light known to man, and allow me to go places that I have never gone before and see and experience the newness of life like I have never done before. Thank you for giving me this brand new attitude this day Heavenly Father. Now I will walk with my head high to the sky and give you all the praise and glory for bringing me out of the darkness into your marvelous light. In Jesus name, Amen!
OUR MESSENGER FOR TODAY’S MESSAGE IS PASTOR DENNIS R. EVERETT SR.
This is truly an anointed Pastor and Teacher of the Gospel and we are truly blessed to feature him for this very important message today. No one teaches it better than Pastor Everett. Please do not take my word for it, I want you to click on this video and listen for yourself. This message should inspire you into action.
HOW TO MAKE DISCIPLES: If you truly want to be a disciple, this might be one of the most important video clips you will ever watch. Click on it and let’s discover what we can do.
We hope this message today has been a blessing as well as an inspiration to your soul. Now is the time to take action and do what God has called you into action to do. We will be presenting this message in greater details in the coming months. We want all of you to experience the joy of this great Kingdom Building process. Because you were created with Power and for this purpose, and now God has commanded each one of us to simply GO!
LET US PRAY: Heavenly Father, we thank you for blessing each one of your children today that took the time to read and study your word. Anoint each of them in such a way that they may eat from the bread of life and drink from the purified waters that they will never thirst are hunger again. Allow the Holy Spirit to enter into their souls that they will be lifted up and filled with power to do all things that they may desire and no weapon formed against them shall prosper. In Jesus name, Amen!
Don’t forget to visit our youtube channel by clicking on this link: http://www.youtube.com/user/davistheteacher?feature=mhee Once you are there, click on the subscribe button at the top right side and enjoy all that the many great lessons of life located in one place just for you.
THE LORD WILL STRENGTHEN YOU TO EXCAPE THE PRISON GATE
WRITTEN BY SHIRLEY RHODES
THE GREAT ESCAPE FROM THE PRISON GATE (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
My flesh and my heart falter in weakness; God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever. It is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all his works (Psalm 73: 26, 28 KJV).
In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust; let me never be put to confusion; be my strong habitation, where I may continually resort; you have given commandment to save me; you are my rock and my fortress (Psalm 71: 1,3 KJV).
I am a wonder to many, but you are my strong refuge. Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and honor all day. Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength fail (Psalm 71: 7, 9). When I am old and grey headed, forsake me not; until I have shown thy strength to this generation and power to everyone that is to come.
Thou, which have shown me great and sore troubles, shall quicken me again and shall bring me up from the depths of the earth. You shall increase my greatness and comfort me on every side. My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing to you and my soul which you have redeemed. My tongue shall talk of your righteousness all day long: forthey are frustrated and brought to shame that seek my hurt (Psalm 71: 18, 20, 21, 23, 24 KJV). The Lord declares, “Call on me, come and pray to me, I will listen to you.You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart (Jeremiah 29:13). I know the plans I have for youplanned to prosper you and not to harm you, plan to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah: 29:11 NIV).
WALKING INTO THE LIGHT AFTER ESCAPING THE PRISON GATES BY THE GRACE OF GOD (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
For the grace of God have appeared that offers salvation to all people.he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.
The Holy Spirit teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.
These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you (Titus Chapter 2).
STANDING AT THE GATE OF OLD MAN PATIENCE (PHOTO BY PASTOR DAVIS)
Many times in our lives, we come face to face with many difficult situations. We stand at the crossroads of life wondering which direction we should take. At this junction, the crossroads offers us an opportunity, to make a life changing decision that could affect the rest of our lives.
Once again, we ask ourselves, which direction should we take? Our thoughts begin to take us on the journey that we initially set out to experience. As our minds begin to roam in the great distance, our patience begins to grow thin. We question ourselves again and again, and then ask, why have we been led to this point? Our not knowing sometimes brings fear, and fear fills us with anxieties, that hinder our perspective in knowing that God has our backs and led us to this crossroads in order to teach us the patience we need to carry us through to our destination. At this point, we need patience to develop within us.
Developing patiencefirst starts within our minds, our thoughts, and our thoughts become things. You must now intentionally commit to observing delayed gratification for a better end.
Patience is having the ability to delay immediate gratification for a greater good. Developing patience also means bettering your character. In addition, your patience allows you to assess a situation with greater clarity yielding to the best possible outcome. It can allow you to see the completion of a thing or the completeness of it. It is a position of wisdom to have great patience in all matters.
Now listen carefully to how the word of God begins to teach us how to develop the necessary patience’s that will take us to our destination:
Developing Patience means entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us—set us right with him, make us fit for him—we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that’s not all: We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open his door to us. We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand—out in the wide open spaces of God’s grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise.
There’s more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we’re hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. In alert expectancy such as this, we’re never left feeling shortchanged. Quite the contrary—we can’t round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit! (Romans 5:1-5 MSG.)
Finally My Friends, Patience is also the state of endurance under difficult circumstances, which can mean persevering in the face of delay or pro-vocation without acting on annoyance anger in a negative way; or exhibited in forbearance when under strain, especially when faced with longer term difficulties. Patience is a level of endurance so one’s character can take before negativity. It is also used to refer to the character trait of being in steadfast.”
Now through all your many trials and tribulations, I encourage you to begin learning this very important art of developing Patience within your Spiritual Mind. Let God have His way with you, and stop rushing ahead of God. When you do this, you will soon discover Old Man Patience working and slowly but surely turning your life around. Stop being impatience and Old Man Patience will show up in just the right moment in time. We pray daily for you in the name of Jesus, AMEN!
06/18/2013
PASTOR DAVIS/MASTER TEACHER
