Posted in Christian, Faith, Family, Leadership

Fact or Fake?



It’s always my goal to encourage. Even when giving not so good news from a scriptural perspective. We always need the truth, but as in everything in life, we need balanced truth. If I fed you an entire diet of healthy lettuce, you’d be no doubt unhealthy without other food groups. And you’d spend most of your life in the bathroom, just sayin’. That’s kind of how I feel sometimes when I continually feed myself with news. It’s seldom ever good and it usually leaves me feeling like crap. Certainly not inspired. But I need reality in my life. I need to understand what’s going on in the world around me. I just don’t need to fall apart because I feel like the world is going down the tubes. 

Psalm 12 is a good dose of reality coupled with truthful encouragement of end times. According to commentary, “…some Jewish writers understand it of the times of the Messiah; and the Syriac version entitles the psalm,”an accusation of the wicked, and a prophecy concerning the coming of the Messiah.” I’m not too deep a thinker, but I certain see it. And it excites me!  Within this Psalm is some painful truth about where we are in society and then the Psalmist gives us the hope of Christ, who makes everything better. This Psalm has what we need in life, perfect balance. Four verses of painful truth, and four verses of hope in truth.

Who is Lord over us?

Psalm 12:1-8 KJVS

[1] Help, Lord ; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. [2] They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. [3] The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things: [4] Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us?

Wow! Does that ever sound like what we’re hearing from the world today. In my 25 years of salvation I have never seen such a ‘weak spined’ church as now. It turns out “spined” is not a word, but I figure if the world can make up new genders, I can make up new words; and mine will do far less damage. But the church (collectively) has lost it’s back bone when they embrace what scripture clearly defines as sin. And it’s not just the sin of homosexuality that they’ve accepted, it’s he putrid intent of the agenda that most people are not aware of because they don’t seek news from a truthful source. For the record, if you’re watching any mainstream news, it’s not the truth. Whether or not you hear the term “Black Lives Matters,” they are fueling the fire of main stream media to push the “Critical Race Theory” into our public schools. By the way, I spoke with a teacher this week that said it had already made it’s way into Calhoun County. 

If you’re unfamiliar with Critical Race Theory, (CRT) you really need to do your homework. Parents of every color, across the country are attending school board meetings to request the curriculum either be taken out of already instituted programs, or never make it’s way in. CRT influences children of different races to hate each other. It touts that white people are born evil and should live a life of apology for who God created them to be. One black father stated that “the curriculum basically teaches his daughter to hate her white mother.” Is it that simple of an issue. No this movement goes far deeper and far scarier. 

Critical race theory is an offshoot of critical theory, the brainchild of the Frankfurt School, a group of 20th-century Marxists associated with the Institute for Social Research. (Fun fact: the founder of the Institute for Social Research wanted it to be named the Institut fur Marxismus, which translates to the “Institute for Marxism.” That name was scrapped for fear it would alienate the public.)

Why do I bring this up? Because the church should not plead ignorance at the cost of our children. We need to seek the truth and stand on the side of Christ. And this is only one of many truthful topics in society today that the church is either unaware of or in support of. So when the Psalmist asks “who is Lord over us?” I have to wonder? It is not Christ that would create an atmosphere of division among His people. It is no wonder that Marxism, BLM and this multi gender, self promoting identification is thriving. Because the church has bought the lie that we can’t be involved in public education. Yes we can. We may not be able to teach and preach, but we can protect our children from harm. 

Outside of the school system, where we have our say, we can teach and preach the truth to our children and prepare them to be ready for the Lord’s return. 

Jesus is Lord!

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[5] For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the Lord ; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him. [6] The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. [7] Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever. [8] The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted.

Jesus will arise and call His church home and the pride and arrogance of this world will cease in that day. His church, those who have accepted His work on the cross as payment for the sins of everyone in this world. The wise of this world call the faith of a child of God foolishness, they do puff at the opportunity.  But God’s word is truth! Pure and undefiled by this world, we have the word of God at our fingertips to encourage us on days then the world drags us down. The Apostle Paul followed right along with this theory (a good theory by the way).

1 Corinthians 1:18 KJVS

[18] For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

We have the power of God within us to fight the wickedness of this world. We forget that more often than we capitalize on the fact.  

My information regarding critical race theory comes from my own knowledge through conservative media outlets such as the blaze. The information I used for this blog post came from the following link if you’d like to check it out!

https://www.newsweek.com/critical-race-theory-repackaged-marxism-opinion-1599557
Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Family, Grace, Health, Life Inspiration, Word of God

Stay in the Fight

If you follow me, you know that I’ve been off the cyber grid for a week or so. It wasn’t intentional, my time just seems to be extremely in demand by other folks. It’s not that I mind, it’s just extremely taxing on my spiritual self. It’s also usually followed by an attack on my health, which was yesterday and today. Nothing serious…. just an allergy mess!!! So this morning I’m trying to refocus myself on myself and my relationship with Almighty God. It’s a struggle. 

I spoke a few hours ago to a young mother whose children have been pulled away by the world and the current approved lifestyles. Her heart was broken, she was frustrated for answers, I felt her agony, and agonized myself because we can’t fix the problems this world creates. They do not welcome what we absolutely know is the best thing in life. The peace of Jesus. 

Last night I made myself a shirt with a self portrait being drawn by God’s hand. It stated “Unapologetic Child of God.” I am! Especially on days when I’m feeling less than healthy and I can be cranky if I want too… Don’t mess with me world. That’s where I’m at… how about you? Have you had enough of the world telling us we do not have the right to speak Jesus? I’ve been told that in many venues for many years. When I worked for the courts, I was told that I needed to keep quiet when broken people came into the office who had made poor decisions in life and needed to know that Jesus still loved them. When I worked for the school I was told not to tell children about Christ because there was a separation between church and state that didn’t allow it. When I spoke my mind in county office and it got me fired, because I called a Christian out who cussed like a sailor, I rejoiced when God got me out of that putrid environment. I really am an unapologetic child of God. I’m not going to say I’m invincible on the subject, but I do get riled up when people come against me. Maybe it’s just my mood today being that I’m not feeling well, but I just needed to tell the world to “back off.”

Coat Shakers

Acts 18:5-11 KJVS

[5] And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ. [6] And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

When the Jews refused to listen and take heed to the word of God that Apostle Paul shared with them; he who was a fellow Jew, he shook his responsibility for them off and went on down the road as the Apostle to the Gentiles.

When someone denies again and again the word of God and refuses to listen to a lovingly spoke testimony it’s hurtful. I have never been an “in your face” Christian who lords the gospel over people. I do my best to present gospel with my life first, and with my words second. I have been accused of being prejudiced against other churches because I’m vocal about false doctrine and churches that have become social clubs. I don’t expect that I’ll change on that. I’m not rude, but please don’t ask for my opinion about any specific denomination or congregation that I have personal experience with and know the truth. Because I’ll kindly give it to you. As time grows shorter towards Christ’s return for the church, I’m not guaranteed another opportunity to share that wisdom. I don’t want someone laid to my charge. 

I want to make a difference. 

When the young mother told me this morning that her family said that her children just needed “love and acceptance.” I in tender mercy said to her, “No they need love. Not acceptance. We do not have the right to accept what God has forbidden. Tell your family to take that up with God.” Praise God she accepted my words in the compassion for which they were spoken.

I imagine that to be the way Paul handled things. And I’m sure there were times that he questioned his tactic. Why else would the Lord come to him in a dream. 

[7] And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man’s house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue. [8] And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized. [9] Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: [10] For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city. [11] And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

If the Lord told Paul to “be not afraid” he had obviously had some fears arise when preaching and teaching the gospel. Even though “Many believed and were baptized,” Paul still had doubts. The amazing, yet fully human, apostle Paul. For a year and six months he continued in a place he wasn’t always appreciated. 

I recently had an experience that caused me to question whether or not I should continue with one part of my ministry. I felt that I was under attack and making little difference. Because Satan wanted me to believe that. He wanted me to feel that I was rejected and defeated and nothing more to contribute int hat place. I was ripe for the pickin’. I told the Lord that day, maybe it’s time for me to step down. And then I heard “Who then will continue on?” In this particular place in the ministry there wasn’t anyone beating the door down to take my place. And so I stayed for another week, and it got better. Maybe I’m writing this today because that’s where you are. You don’t think you’re making a difference. 

Self examination is always good, but makes sure it’s not self contamination. It’s much easier to tear something down than it is building something up.  I don’t know what was going through Paul’s mind, but I know whats been going through mine lately, and it’s time I fight back against both the junk inside my head from allergies and the junk inside my head from this world.

We need to stay in the fight friends!

Posted in Bible Journaling, Christian Service, Evangelism, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration

Four Reasons to Stay on the Wall

In the book of Nehemiah, a mighty religious leader of the day received word of the remnant of the Jewish people that are left in Jerusalem. Their wall of protection is destroyed, the gates have been burned and Nehemiah sits down, weeps, fasts, prays, and then then begins his conversation with God.

Before we take our stand atop our wall there is a few preparatory measures we need to take. First talk to God, make sure it’s your wall to stand on and fight. I cannot tell you of the times I have climbed to the top of a wall that was built on someone else’s ideas instead of God’s. Second, take accountability for the brokenness if it’s yours. And third remember, you are one of the Redeemed! That in a nutshell is Nehemiah Chapter One regarding the state of Israel and Nehemiah’s prayer to God. If it’s your wall, don’t come down.

God is the God of Action. Unless it’s for a time of prayer or preaching, nowhere in scripture do you find God’s people sitting still and being productive. If they’re sitting still (like King David) they’re apt to fall into sin. Busyness isn’t always a sign of productiveness, but it’s certainly a better sign than never being found doing anything.

I cannot summarize the story of Nehemiah and the wall into a few sentences. So much happened and the entire book is so worthy to read. But for bit of encouragement for the both of us I’ll use this scripture from the book to encourage you to stay on the wall.

Nehemiah 8:10

Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry: for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Israel had just heard the word of God afresh. They were mourning for the state of their nation. But Nehemiah gives them (and us) these words of encouragement.

We have a Reason to Celebrate

If God’s people can’t rejoice, who can? The wall was rebuilt in spite of the opposition they faced. And for those of us on this side of the New Testament, we are blessed with the Word of God that has stood the test of time and has proven itself as truth no matter how many times an angry world has tried to tear it down. We can eat the fat and drink the sweet of His glorious word and feel the Spirit in our soul as we do. The world may not know… but we do. That is reason to celebrate! Stay on the Wall and Celebrate what God completed at the empty tomb.

We have blessings to share

Nehemiah reminded them that their blessings were not their own to keep. Neither are ours. I looked around my home this morning at all the goodness of God and His graciousness to me who is so unworthy and I feel shame that I don’t share more than I do. I feel shame that I don’t take the time to thank God and stay in constant prayer that His mercy abounds in my family and friends. You too no doubt have blessings uncounted and gifts in your life that you could encourage someone with today. Stay on the wall and share God’s goodness that world may see what He’s done in your life, and that even the unsaved will glorify God for you.

We serve The Lord Most High

I loved when Nehemiah said “Don’t be sorry.” I believe he was telling the Israelites to move past regret. I am so apt to stay in an attitude of unworthiness because of my failures. I do it to the point of yet another failure; because God has proven I am worthy by His death on the cross. Was not that enough? We serve a risen Savior who took every sin; past, present and future upon His shoulders at the cross so that we could live in victory! We serve the Lord Most High, there is no reason to be low. Stay on the wall and serve in the victory you’re afforded and don’t cower to the demons of Hell that tell you you’re not worthy. You are worthy by His blood.

We have His Strength to Go On

That strength is found in His joy and His joy is found in our service. There is engrained in the child of God a desire to serve. When that desire is fulfilled it brings with it a joy unspeakable and that joy floods the body and soul with strength to go on. Yes, we’ll have some days of doubt, we’re human. But we can look back on the joys of serving God and the fruits of our labor, just like Nehemiah and children of Israel must have looked back on the rebuilt wall. Look what you’ve done in the strength of the Lord! Can He not do more? And will you not continue to stand and fight for those who have yet to make it to where you are in Christ?

I have family and friends who have never experienced life atop the wall. They’ve never known the victory of Spirit filled leaving and confidence in Christ. I’m not done until God says I’m done. Stay on the wall and continue in His strength that others may experience it too.

The wall of Jerusalem was nothing more than bricks and mortar. The Rock for which we stand is indestructible. Stand Strong in His Might!