Stay With It!

Happy Sunday!
 
Bishop Alexis A. Thomas preached, "Stay With It!" He used Hebrews 10:23-25 as his reference scripture.
 
Bishop said that some scholars call The Book of Hebrews the 5th Gospel because it picks up where the four Gospels left off. It tells us what is currently happening in heaven and fills us in on the activities of Jesus.
 
So what is Jesus doing now? I'm so glad you asked! Romans 8:34(b) says, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." (King James Version)
 
So Jesus has finished the job God gave him to do and he is sitting on God's right side. Have you heard the term, "Right Hand Man"? The term means someone who helps you with your work, someone you can depend upon.  Jesus has the best seat in Heaven and what is he doing? The King James Version says he's making intercession for us. Intercession means he's praying for us and pleading with God to have mercy on us!
 
So Stay With It! I know I know you are probably wishing I would just shut-up.  You are probably saying, "She has no idea what I'm facing."
 
You are right, I don't know! But God does. The Hebrew Christians that the writer was addressing in this letter were experiencing horrendous adversity.  They were being persecuted and some of them were even killed.  They had become discouraged and the writer wanted to encourage them to "HOLD ON!" because God is faithful.  Hebrews 10:23 says, "Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise." (New Living Translation) The Apostle Paul described it like this, "We’ve been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we’re not demoralized; we’re not sure what to do, but we know that God knows what to do; we’ve been spiritually terrorized, but God hasn’t left our side; we’ve been thrown down, but we haven’t broken. What they did to Jesus, they do to us—trial and torture, mockery and murder; what Jesus did among them, he does in us—he lives! 2 Corinthians 4:8-10(Message Translation)
 
Be encouraged! Stay With It!  God is Faithful!  His Word is still true.

Love and prayers, Cynthia

Help Is On The Way!

Happy Sunday!
Bishop Alexis A. Thomas preached "Help Is On The Way!" He used Luke 2:7-14.

Bishop told us that he watches the news almost religiously. Lately, the news stories have been sad and disturbing. He thought perhaps "evil" had reached a peak years ago, but he is beginnning to believe that evil has no peak. Now, before we get too proud and think evil only resides in "those other" people, Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is hopelessly dark and deceitful, a puzzle that no one can figure out. But I, God, search the heart and examine the mind. I get to the heart of the human. I get to the root of things. I treat them as they really are, not as they pretend to be.” (Message Translation) Even the Psalmist prayed, "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10 (King James Version) We must examine ourselves and allow God to change us from the inside out.

In the meantime, we need some encouragement! HELP IS ON THE WAY! Luke Chapter 2 tells the story of the birth of Jesus. "About that time Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire. This was the first census when Quirinius was governor of Syria. Everyone had to travel to his own ancestral hometown to be accounted for. So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David’s town, for the census. As a descendant of David, he had to go there. He went with Mary, his fiancée, who was pregnant.
While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. She gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in a blanket and laid him in a manger, because there was no room in the hostel." (Message Translation)

It's seems like the people in that time had problems and issues just like we do. They had problems with government, problems with taxes, and they even had trouble finding a room for the night. But something wonderful happened, "There were sheepherders camping in the neighborhood. They had set night watches over their sheep. Suddenly, God’s angel stood among them and God’s glory blazed around them. They were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master. This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger.” At once the angel was joined by a huge angelic choir singing God’s praises: Glory to God in the heavenly heights, Peace to all men and women on earth who please him." (Message Translation)

You are probably thinking, "Where is the encouragement in that? I've heard that story a hundred times." Well you're right! But look at the story one more time. The angels hid the secret in their song. The King James Version says, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. (vs 14)

1) Glory to God in the Highest! - Give God the highest priority in your life. Give him the respect, and adoration that he is so Worthy of. Glorify him in everything you say and do. Matthew 5:16 says, "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven." (Amplified Version)

2) On Earth Peace - There is no peace, without the Prince of Peace! When we glorify God in the highest, we will find true peace. Philippians 4:6-7 says, "Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life." (Message Translation)

3) Good Will Toward Men - When we have peace in our personal lives, we share that peace with others. Paul encouraged Timothy, "I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone." 1 Timothy 2:1-6 (New Living Translation)

Help is on the way! Whatever you may be facing, Give God the Glory, enjoy his Peace that surpasses understanding, and share that Peace and Good Will with everyone you meet!

Love and prayers, Cynthia

If

Happy Sunday!
Bishop Alexis A. Thomas didn't preach today, but we got a sermon all the same. We are all still in shock and saddness over the senseless mass killings in Connecticut. Bishop had parents come to the altar with their children and prayed for them as well as the families and community in Connecticut.

Bishop did encourage and challenge us with one scripture...2 Chronicles 7:14.

2 Chronicles 7:14 says, "If my own people will humbly pray and turn back to me and stop sinning, then I will answer them from heaven. I will forgive them and make their land fertile once again." (Contemporary English Version)

When the word "if" is used it alerts us to certain specific conditions. You may have signed a contract that had "if" phrases. For example, if you continue to pay the auto loan you can continue to enjoy the automobile. But "if" you decide to spend that money elsewhere, the auto loan company may come repossess your vehicle. In this scripture, God makes it clear that we have a responsibility. And "if" we want to live in a peaceful and civilized land we must be willing to do the following...

1) Humble Yourself - Humble is defined as - Marked by meekness or modesty in behavior, attitude, or spirit; not arrogant or prideful. Proverbs 6:16-19 says, "Here are six things God hates, and one more that he loathes with a passion: eyes that are arrogant, a tongue that lies,
hands that murder the innocent, a heart that hatches evil plots, feet that race down a wicked track, a mouth that lies under oath, a troublemaker in the family." It sounds so simple and self-explanatory, but think about this...God was speaking to his own people. He was speaking to the people who should have known this already. Everyday we have to check ourselves and say with the Psalmist, "Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me." Psalm 51:10 (New Living Translation)

2) Pray - Jesus gave us a model prayer. If we have trouble thinking of the right words to pray, we can follow his example..."Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen." Matthew 6:9-13 (New King James Version)

3) Turn Back to Me - STOP Sinning! - Seems pretty simple, but why are we still struggling. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Romans, "I obviously need help! I realize that I don’t have what it takes. I can will it, but I can’t do it. I decide to do good, but I don’t really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don’t result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time. It happens so regularly that it’s predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God’s commands, but it’s pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge. I’ve tried everything and nothing helps. I’m at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn’t that the real question? The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different." - Romans 7 (Message Translation) We can't do it in our own strength, but with the Spirit of God we are empowered..."For with God nothing shall be impossible." Luke 1:37 (King James Version)

After we keep our end of the bargain, God promises to hear and answer our prayers, to forgive our sins, and heal our land.

I'm praying for Peace on Earth...I will ensure that it begins with me.
I'm praying for Love and Respect for Life...I will work to speak words that bring help, and encouragement, and not harm.
I'm praying for Comfort to all the brokenhearted...I will be alert and compassionate to others and understand that a little kindness goes a long way.
I'm praying for you...that all your needs will be met, and that you will have plenty left over to share with others. (2 Corinthians 9:8)

Love and prayers, Cynthia

Well

Happy Sunday!

In 2011 and 2012, our church theme has been, "Building Meaningful Connections". Bishop told us today that in 2013 our theme will be "A Well Church". We will be focusing on being well in every area of our lives - Spiritually, Emotionally, Physically, and Financially.

Along that theme, Bishop Alexis A. Thomas preached "You Won't Even Recognize Me!" He used Acts 2:1 as his reference scripture.

The disciples and followers of Jesus had experienced some traumatic events. Their leader, Jesus was arrested, beaten, and crucified. Then he was resurrected and "As they watched, he was taken up and disappeared in a cloud. They stood there, staring into the empty sky. Suddenly two men appeared—in white robes! They said, “You Galileans!—why do you just stand here looking up at an empty sky? This very Jesus who was taken up from among you to heaven will come as certainly—and mysteriously—as he left.” Acts 1:9-11 (Message Translation)

On the day of Pentecost, they were in one place and all in agreement. Something miraculous happened. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit. They had been timid and afraid, but with the power of the Holy Spirit they were bold and joyfully declared the Good News. People from many nations with different languages were in Jerusalem for the feast and heard the Good News about Jesus. Peter preached that day and 3,000 people were saved. (Acts 2:41)

People who knew Peter before this event probably didn't recognize him. He once denied Jesus, but now he wasn't afraid to preach in front of thousands of people. The same thing will happen to us! When we surrender to the Spirit of God and allow him to lead us and guide us, people won't recognize us. Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. (New Living Translation)

Ephesians 3:20 is one of my all time favorites, it says, "God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us." (Message Translation)

So I'm working on "getting myself together" and I'm allowing the Holy Spirit to lead me and guide me.
When my "change" is complete...you won't even recognize me!

Love and prayers, Cynthia

I Got to Get Myself Together!

Happy Sunday!
Bishop Alexis A. Thomas preached, "I Got to Get Myself Together!"  He used Luke 17:20-21 and Acts 1:7-8.

Many times we are our biggest problem!  It's hard to admit, but it's true.  It's so much easier to play the blame game!  It's easy to blame our parents, our community, our pastor, and the "Man". 

Michael Jackson sang, "I'm starting with the man in the mirror, I'm asking him to change his ways, And no message could have been any clearer, If you wanna make the world a better place, Take a look at yourself and then make a change." Such prophetic lyrics!  Change has to begin within each of us.  As we listen to God and obey his Word we change.  2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" (New Living Translation)  Change is inevitable!  Nina Simone sang, "Everything Must Change, nothing remains the same..." and Albert Einstein said, "Insanity is doing the same thing, over and over again, but expecting different results.
In the first scripture passage, Jesus was being grilled by the Pharisees on when the kingdom of God would come.  He answered, "The kingdom of God doesn't come by counting the days on the calendar. Nor when someone says, 'Look here!" or, "There it is!  And why? Because God's kingdom is already among you." (Message Translation)   With Jesus we have everything we need to change and to succeed.  2 Peter 1:3 says, "He gives us everything we need for life and for holy living. He gives it through His great power. As we come to know Him better, we learn that He called us to share His own shining-greatness and perfect life." (New Living Translation) 

In the second passage of scripture, Jesus told the disciples, "The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (New Living Translation)

The Theologian, Martin Luther wrote, "“Our nature…is so deeply curved in on itself that it not only bends the best gifts of God toward itself…but it also fails to realize that it so wickedly, curvedly, and viciously seeks all things, even God for its own sake."  
Paul wrote to the Romans, " I’ve tried everything and nothing helps. I’m at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn’t that the real question?  The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different." Romans 7:24-28 (Message Translation)  When we surrender to God he adds his "Super" to our "natural" and empowers and anoints us to change for the better.  As we change individually, the church changes corporately, and the world will change completely.

Praying that you have a week full of positive metamorphosis - A marked change in appearance, character, condition, or function!

Love and prayers, Cynthia

Count Your Blessings!

Happy Sunday!
Everyday is a day of Thanksgiving! I hope you enjoyed the Thanksgiving Holiday and I am so thankful for you!

I had the awesome priviledge to worship at Faith Family Church in Shiloh, Illinois today. Pastor Rick Hufton encouraged us to "Count Our Blessings" and reminded us of a few blessing we sometimes overlook.

God Qualified Us! Have you ever applied for a job or a loan and were told that you didn't qualify? Rejection is a hard thing to deal with. But think about this, Jesus was "Good" enough to pay the price for our sin, and he did it! Colossians 1:12-13 says, "Giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." (New International Version) We are qualified to recieve the blessings of the Lord. What are some of those blessings? Glad you asked!

All these blessings will come down on you and spread out beyond you because you have responded to the Voice of God, your God:

God’s blessing inside the city,
God’s blessing in the country;
God’s blessing on your children,
the crops of your land,
the young of your livestock,
the calves of your herds,
the lambs of your flocks.
God’s blessing on your basket and bread bowl;
God’s blessing in your coming in,
God’s blessing in your going out.

God will defeat your enemies who attack you. They’ll come at you on one road and run away on seven roads.
God will order a blessing on your barns and workplaces; he’ll bless you in the land that God, your God, is giving you.
Deuteronomy 28:1-8 (Message Translation)

God Rescued Us! Pastor Rick mentioned how we use the word "redeemed" so often and we may not appreciate the true meaning of the word. Redeemed means to buy or pay off. Jesus' death on the cross paid the price for our sin. Galatians 3;13 says, "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us," (New International Version) He rescued us from eternal damnation.

God Purchased Our Freedom! We have been qualified, and rescued, and now our freedom has been purchased. We have an opportunity to live a meaningful and fulfilled life. We can experience joy, peace, and love! We can prosper and succeed! Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think." (New Living Translation)

We have so much to be thankful for. I hope that you have time to consider all your many blessings.

Love and prayers, Cynthia

Living Beyond Yourself

Happy Sunday!
Bishop Alexis A. Thomas preached, "Living Beyond Yourself".  He used Mark 8:31-9:1 as his reference scripture.

Bishop mentioned seeing a commercial that claimed to answer the question, "Who is the Most Important Person?"  The commercial insinuated that the individual is the most important person.

Jesus set another example.  In this passage of scripture, Jesus tells his disciples that he will have to suffer many things and be killed.  This was traumatic news for the disciples.  They had seen the miracles, and the healings, and they couldn't believe that Jesus would have to die.  But from the beginning of time Jesus was preparing to come and be the sacrifice for our sins. Old Testament scriptures even prophesied of the things Jesus the Messiah would suffer.  For example, Isaiah 53:5 says, "But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed." (New Living Translation)

Jesus didn't come to Earth to be a Super Star!  He came to be the Ultimate Servant.  "Calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to saving yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? What could you ever trade your soul for?" Mark 8:34-36 (Message Translation)

In this Holiday Season, and every day of our lives we need to "Live Beyond Ourselves".  We need to follow the example of Jesus.  "I tell you, love your enemies. Help and give without expecting a return. You’ll never—I promise—regret it. Live out this God-created identity the way our Father lives toward us, generously and graciously, even when we’re at our worst. Our Father is kind; you be kind. Don’t pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults—unless, of course, you want the same treatment. Don’t condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang. Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity.” Luke 6:35-38 (Message Translation)

Enjoy the week...Live Beyond Yourself,

Love and prayers, Cynthia


Matthew 6:6(b)..."Your Father, Who sees in secret, will reward you in the open."
 

How To Handle A Dying Situation

Happy Sunday! Happy Veterans Day Weekend!
 Today we celebrated our pastor's 28th Pastoral Anniversary and his 45th Birthday.  Our guest speaker was Bishop Darryl S. Brister from Beacon Light International Cathedral in New Orleans, Louisiana.  Bishop Brister used Luke 8:40-56.  His subject for the message was, "How To Handle A Dying Situation".
 

^"On his return, Jesus was welcomed by a crowd. They were all there expecting him. A man came up, Jairus by name. He was president of the meeting place. He fell at Jesus’ feet and begged him to come to his home because his twelve-year-old daughter, his only child, was dying. Jesus went with him, making his way through the pushing, jostling crowd.

In the crowd that day there was a woman who for twelve years had been afflicted with hemorrhages. She had spent every penny she had on doctors but not one had been able to help her. She slipped in from behind and touched the edge of Jesus’ robe. At that very moment her hemorrhaging stopped. Jesus said, “Who touched me?”

When no one stepped forward, Peter said, “But Master, we’ve got crowds of people on our hands. Dozens have touched you.”

Jesus insisted, “Someone touched me. I felt power discharging from me.”

When the woman realized that she couldn’t remain hidden, she knelt trembling before him. In front of all the people, she blurted out her story—why she touched him and how at that same moment she was healed.

Jesus said, “Daughter, you took a risk trusting me, and now you’re healed and whole. Live well, live blessed!”

While he was still talking, someone from the leader’s house came up and told him, “Your daughter died. No need now to bother the Teacher.”

Jesus overheard and said, “Don’t be upset. Just trust me and everything will be all right.” Going into the house, he wouldn’t let anyone enter with him except Peter, John, James, and the child’s parents.

Everyone was crying and carrying on over her. Jesus said, “Don’t cry. She didn’t die; she’s sleeping.” They laughed at him. They knew she was dead.   Then Jesus, gripping her hand, called, “My dear child, get up.” She was up in an instant, up and breathing again! He told them to give her something to eat. Her parents were ecstatic, but Jesus warned them to keep quiet. “Don’t tell a soul what happened in this room.”
(Message Translation)

In order to handle a dying situation...

1)   Find Jesus - Jairus realized he couldn't do anything to help his daughter.  He needed "Super Natural" Power and assistance so he went to find Jesus.  Psalm 61:2 says, "From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the towering rock of safety," (New Living Translation)
2)   Fall Down -  Jairus fell at Jesus' feet in verse 41, he humbled himself before Jesus.  The Word says, "Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you," - 1 Peter 5:6 (Amplified Version)
3)   Take Jesus Home With You - There's an old Gospel song that says, "Take the Lord along with you, Everywhere you go!"  If we are going to handle dying situations we have to take Jesus with us everywhere in every situation.  Ephesians 2:1-5 says, "It wasn’t so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn’t know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It’s a wonder God didn’t lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ."  (Message Translation)
4)   Keep on Walking - When the messenger from Jairus' house said the girl was dead, he could have given up and given in.  But Jesus told him, “Don’t be upset. Just trust me and everything will be all right.”  If we want to handle a dying situation we have to keep moving forward no matter how bad it looks.  We have to trust Jesus and believe that nothing is impossible with GOD.  Luke 1:37, "For with God nothing shall be impossible." (King James Version)

Praying that you have everything you need, spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially!

Love and Prayers, Cynthia
 

How Giving Benefits You

HAPPY SUNDAY!

Yes, I am yelling! LOL!  It's was an awesome service!  Praise and Worship was excellent and we had a guest speaker.  Our guest speaker was Pastor Kerwin B. Lee from Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain, Georgia.  He used 2 Kings 4:8- as his reference.  His topic was "How Giving to the Man of God Benefits You!"

I love it when Pastor Lee comes to visit us.  He is a Preacher Teacher.  He teaches the Word and makes it relevant for our daily lives.  Maybe you remember the story.  The Prophet Elisha would travel a lot.  When he happened to be in a certain city a woman and her husband would allow him to stay in their home.  The woman was prosperous and perceptive. “I’m certain,” said the woman to her husband, “that this man who stops by with us all the time is a holy man of God. Why don’t we add on a small room upstairs and furnish it with a bed and desk, chair and lamp, so that when he comes by he can stay with us?"   So they added on the room and furnished it and the prophet stayed there each time he was in the area.  The Prophet Elisha appreciated what the woman had done.  One day he said to her, “You’ve gone far beyond the call of duty in taking care of us; what can we do for you? Do you have a request we can bring to the king or to the commander of the army?”
She replied, “Nothing. I’m secure and satisfied in my family.”  Elisha conferred with Gehazi: “There’s got to be something we can do for her. But what?”  Gehazi said, “Well, she has no son, and her husband is an old man.” “Call her in,” said Elisha. He called her and she stood at the open door. Elisha said to her, “This time next year you’re going to be nursing an infant son.” (Message Translation)

Long story short, she had the son, he grew up, one day he was in the fields working with his father and collapsed.  His father told the servants to take him to his mother.  He died in her arms.  She laid his body on the prophets bed and went to see the prophet.  You will have to read the rest of the story for yourself...but here are some important points.

When you give...it leads to the ARRIVAL of blessings!  The woman didn't have any ulterior motives for giving to the prophet.  She gave without expecting anything in return.  The Word says, "When you do something for someone else, don’t call attention to yourself. You’ve seen them in action, I’m sure—‘playactors’ I call them—treating prayer meeting and street corner alike as a stage, acting compassionate as long as someone is watching, playing to the crowds. They get applause, true, but that’s all they get. When you help someone out, don’t think about how it looks. Just do it—quietly and unobtrusively. That is the way your God, who conceived you in love, working behind the scenes, helps you out." - Matthew 6:2-4 (Message Translation)

When you give...it leads to the REVIVAL of blessings!  The woman received the gift of a child and she knew it was a blessing from God.  When the child died, she went to the prophet.  The prophet eventually came and the child was brought back to life.  She stayed positive!  In verse 26, Elisha's servant asked her how was everything and everyone...she said, "Everything is Fine!"  She exhibited FAITH.  Hebrews 11:1, "Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see." (New Living Translation)

When you give...it leads to a SURVIVAL of blessings!  Years passed, the woman's husband died, and she fell on hard times.  2 Kings Chapter 8 says, that after the famine the woman and her son returned to their home.  When Elisha and his servant recognized her they spoke with the King and he restored everything that she had lost, including the value of the crops that had been harvested while she was away!  Galatians 6:7 sums it all up, "Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he’ll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God’s Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life."

Have a Blessed Week!  Love and prayers, Cynthia
 

James 1:2-18 (Message Translation)

Happy Sunday!

Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.

If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You’ll get his help, and won’t be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who “worry their prayers” are like wind-whipped waves. Don’t think you’re going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open.

When down-and-outers get a break, cheer! And when the arrogant rich are brought down to size, cheer! Prosperity is as short-lived as a wildflower, so don’t ever count on it. You know that as soon as the sun rises, pouring down its scorching heat, the flower withers. Its petals wilt and, before you know it, that beautiful face is a barren stem. Well, that’s a picture of the “prosperous life.” At the very moment everyone is looking on in admiration, it fades away to nothing.

Anyone who meets a testing challenge head-on and manages to stick it out is mighty fortunate. For such persons loyally in love with God, the reward is life and more life.

Don’t let anyone under pressure to give in to evil say, “God is trying to trip me up.” God is impervious to evil, and puts evil in no one’s way. The temptation to give in to evil comes from us and only us. We have no one to blame but the leering, seducing flare-up of our own lust. Lust gets pregnant, and has a baby: sin! Sin grows up to adulthood, and becomes a real killer.

So, my very dear friends, don’t get thrown off course. Every desirable and beneficial gift comes out of heaven. The gifts are rivers of light cascading down from the Father of Light. There is nothing deceitful in God, nothing two-faced, nothing fickle. He brought us to life using the true Word, showing us off as the crown of all his creatures. - James 1:2-18 (Message Translation)

Love and prayers, Cynthia

Keep Your Eyes On Me

Happy Sunday!
I almost didn't make it to church today.  I watched Sunday Morning on CBS, then watched Apostle Fred Price on TBN, and then while flipping channels I saw an interesting documentary on PBS about Reggae.  I will have to add, "Going to SumFest in Jamaica" to my bucket list! So much fun on Sunday morning!

Anyway, I got ready at the last minute and drove to church. 

Bishop Alexis A. Thomas preached "Keep Your Eyes On Me".  He used Psalm 118:22 as his reference scripture.

"The stone the masons discarded as flawed is now the capstone! - (Message Translation)
"The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. - (King James Version)
"The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. - (New Living Translation)
This scripture is prophetic!  It describes the life of Jesus past, present, and future.  He was born in a barn, laid in a manger.  His birth would be fodder for the tabloids, and he was raised in Nazareth.  You remember Nazareth..."Philip went and found Nathanael and told him, “We’ve found the One Moses wrote of in the Law, the One preached by the prophets. It’s Jesus, Joseph’s son, the one from Nazareth!” Nathanael said, “Nazareth? You’ve got to be kidding.” But Philip said, “Come, see for yourself.” - John 1:46 (Message Translation)

When they sized Jesus up, he didn't fit the mold!  Some Jewish people are still looking for another Messiah.  Maybe you can understand.  Perhaps, you are from a city like Nazareth.  Perhaps, your birth was unplanned, or unheralded.  Perhaps, those staffing that management position don't feel you are the right fit!  But just like Jesus, you are that stone that was discarded, refused, and rejected. But something amazing happens!  That same stone that a group of the builders, carpenters, and masons rejected becomes the cornerstone!

I probably wouldn't have made it to church at all if "This Old House" had come on PBS after the Reggae documentary.  I love that show.  I miss Bob Villa, but that's water under the bridge. LOL!  But watching "This Old House" I have learned so much about building and foundations.  The cornerstone is important because all the other stones are placed in reference to it! (Wikipedia)  A strong foundation is important to any building and even a patio has to be built on a sound foundation for years of enjoyment.

The World says you need an education, money, good credit, friends in high places, and good looks.  All those things are good and beneficial.  But just in case you don't measure up to the World's standards, if you have Jesus you have enough!  The songwriter wrote, "My Hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus Blood and Righteousness.  I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus Name.  On Christ the Solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand." (Mote & Bradbury)

Bishop Alexis A. Thomas said, and I quote..."Rejection is Direction".  Don't worry about those who rejected you!  Don't worry about those who said you wouldn't make it!  Don't worry about that position, that relationship, or that opportunity.  God has a way of using the things that the world considers useless.  He knows you, He loves you, and he has great plans for you..."I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for." - Jeremiah 29:11 (Message Translation)

Love and prayers, Cynthia

Our God Is Awesome

Happy Sunday!

Bishop Alexis A. Thomas has been on sabbatical for the last month.  Worship was exuberant today!  I know I was happy that he was back!  He came into the sanctuary just as the choir was singing, "Our God Is Awesome".  He didn't preach, but he encouraged the congregation.  It's amazing how simply reciting the Word of God can lift the congregation.

He encouraged us to be proactive during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  He noted that generally African-Americans have a lower life expectancy after diagnosis.  The Office of Minority Health a division of the U.S. Department of Health And Human Services says,  "African Americans have the highest mortality rate of any racial and ethnic group for all cancers combined and for most major cancers. Death rates for all major causes of death are higher for African Americans than for whites, contributing in part to a lower life expectancy for both African American men and African American women."

(http://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/templates/content.aspx?ID=2826)  

 

There are so many reasons, factors, and theories to consider, but as Christians we believe that with GOD nothing is impossible. (Luke 1:37) We have to educate ourselves and remember even the Word says, " You will know the TRUTH, and the TRUTH you know, will make you FREE" - John 8:32 (Cynthia Translation) :)

 

Bishop asked all the cancer survivors to come forward.  He allowed them to introduce themselves and give their testimonies.  He also encouraged them to say, "I am Healed!"  It was encouraging to hear the positive reports and to realize that some of the members we sit by every Sunday have been currently facing the challenge of cancer. 

 

One of the scriptures Bishop quoted was Isaiah 40:31.  You probably know it by heart!  That's the awesome benefit of "hiding" the Word in our hearts.  This scripture always encourages me.  I hope it encourages you.  I really enjoy the Message Translation.

 

Why would you ever complain, O Jacob,
    or, whine, Israel, saying,
“God has lost track of me.
    He doesn’t care what happens to me”?

Don’t you know anything? Haven’t you been listening?

God doesn’t come and go. God lasts.
    He’s Creator of all you can see or imagine.
He doesn’t get tired out, doesn’t pause to catch his breath.
    And he knows everything, inside and out.

He energizes those who get tired,
    gives fresh strength to dropouts.
For even young people tire and drop out,
    young folk in their prime stumble and fall.

But those who wait upon God get fresh strength.
    They spread their wings and soar like eagles,
They run and don’t get tired,
    they walk and don’t lag behind.

 

Praying for you! Asking GOD to bless you, yes YOU...Spiritually, Emotionally, Physically, and Financially!  Asking GOD to heal your physical body and give you wisdom and courage to thrive!

 

Love and Prayers, Cynthia

Let each moment come

Happy Sunday!

Let each moment come

Allow time to pass and as it does, make good use of it.
Allow life to unfold and as it does, treasure the richness of each moment.
Accept and be thankful for what has been, and for what is now.
Fully and lovingly utilize the opportunity of this day you now have.

When the wind is at your back, use the occasion to make rapid progress.
When the wind is in your face, take the opportunity to grow stronger.

Learn from those who share your opinions.
And learn even more from those who disagree with you.

Embrace life as it comes to you.
In the grand occasions and in the small moments, delight in the beauty and live the possibilities.

Let each moment come in a steady, empowering procession.
And add your special joy to every one.

— Ralph Marston

Love and prayers, Cynthia

P.S. - Traveling this weekend, but always thinking of you and praying for you. Have a great week.

When God is With You

Happy Sunday!

Our guest speaker today was Overseer Ivry Johnson from Gilead Full Gospel Baptist Church in Nassau, Bahamas.  He used Judges 6:1-40 as his scripture reference and "When God is With You" as his subject.

"Yet again the People of Israel went back to doing evil in God’s sight. God put them under the domination of Midian for seven years. Midian overpowered Israel. Because of Midian, the People of Israel made for themselves hideouts in the mountains—caves and forts. When Israel planted its crops, Midian and Amalek, the easterners, would invade them, camp in their fields, and destroy their crops all the way down to Gaza. They left nothing for them to live on, neither sheep nor ox nor donkey. Bringing their cattle and tents, they came in and took over, like an invasion of locusts. And their camels—past counting! They marched in and devastated the country. The People of Israel, reduced to grinding poverty by Midian, cried out to God for help." - Judges 6:1-6 (Message Translation)

God doesn't let sins go unpunished, but he is always listening for our cry.  Psalms 86:5 says, "O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help."

"The Messenger of the Lord appeared to Gideon and said, “The Lord is with you, brave man."  Gideon responded, “Excuse me, sir! But if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all the miracles our ancestors have told us about? Didn’t they say, ‘The Lord brought us out of Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and has handed us over to Midian." The Lord turned to him and said, “You will rescue Israel from Midian with the strength you have. I am sending you.” Gideon said to him, “Excuse me, sir! How can I rescue Israel? Look at my whole family. It’s the weakest one in Manasseh. And me? I’m the least important member of my family.” The Lord replied, “I will be with you. You will defeat Midian as if it were only one man.” Judges 6:11-16 (God's Word Translation)

It only takes a moment for things to turn around.  Even when your situation looks hopeless, anything is possible.  Gideon was living in fear and insecurity, but the messenger called him a "Brave Man".   God does that all the time...Romans 4:17 says, "We call Abraham “father” not because he got God’s attention by living like a saint, but because God made something out of Abraham when he was a nobody." (Message Translation)

When God is with you, things may not always be perfect.  We all have ups and downs in life. God doesn't promise sunshine without rain.  But when you call on him, he will answer.  "Happy is the man who can endure the highest and lowest fortune.  He who has endured such vicissitudes with equanimity has deprived misfortune of its power. " ~Seneca
Read the rest of the story, Gideon had some issues but God used him to bring the people out of bondage.

Love and prayers, Cynthia

P.S. -  "Like a plant that starts up in showers and sunshine and does not know which has best helped it to grow, it is difficult to say whether the hard things or the pleasant things did me the most good."  ~Lucy Larcom

Do what GOD told you!

Happy Sunday!

I don't know about tomorrow,

I just live from day to day.

And I don't borrow from its sunshine,

For its skies may turn to gray.
And I don't worry about my future,

For I know what Jesus said,

And today He walks beside me

For He knows what lies ahead
Many things about tomorrow I don't seem to understand

But I, I know, I know, I know who holds tomorrow

And I know who holds, who holds my hand - Ira Stanphill

I heard this song on the way to church this morning.  Of course, I was in tears.  I'm a cry baby anyway.

It's comforting and refreshing to know that God cares for us and he has our lives in his hand.  There is so much happening right now in our lives and in our world.  Uprisings, violent attacks, political campaigns, and I-Phone 5's.  If we aren't cautious we can become overwhelmed.

That's probably why the Word says, "Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life." - Philippians 4:6 (Message Translation)

One of our Associate Ministers preached today, she used 2 Kings 4:1-44.  This passage is full of life applications.  A certain woman comes to the prophet with a problem.  Her husband has died and left her with massive debt.  The creditors are coming to take her sons away to be slaves.  The prophet asks her, "What do you have in your house?"  What a great question to ask today?  What do you have in your house?  Do you realize God has given you everything you need to suceed?  It's in your house!  It's in the unique person he created you to be.  Acts 10:34 says, “It’s God’s own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open." (Message Translation)

All the woman had was a container of oil, the prophet gave her these instructions.  "Here’s what you do,” said Elisha. “Go up and down the street and borrow jugs and bowls from all your neighbors.  And not just a few—all you can get. Then come home and lock the door behind you, you and your sons. Pour oil into each container; when each is full, set it aside.  She did what he said. She locked the door behind her and her sons; as they brought the containers to her, she filled them. When all the jugs and bowls were full, she said to one of her sons, “Another jug, please.  He said, “That’s it. There are no more jugs.” Then the oil stopped. (Message Translation)  The woman was able to sell the oil, pay her debts, and live off the rest. 

What can we get from this?  Glad you asked.  Do what GOD told you!  No need to explain to your neighbors.  Keep the process secret, lock the door to naysayers, critics, and haters!  There will be plenty of time for testimonies when God brings you out!  Don't think small!  The prophet instructed her to get lots of pots or vessels.  Do you realize that she determined the size of her blessing by the number of vessels she was willing to collect?  We quote it all the time..."exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think".  Exceeding means to surpass others; excel or be superior.  Abundantly means plentiful, profuse, and numerous. 
Selah.

Love and prayers, Cynthia

Ugly Favor

Happy Monday!

My apologies for missing out on Happy Sunday!  Hope this e-mail finds you well.

Bishop David C. Cooper from New Hope Full Gospel Baptist Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico was our guest speaker for Men's Day.
He preached, "Ugly Favor", using Genesis 29:1-35 as his scripture reference.

I'm sure you remember the story of Leah and Rachel.  The Bible says, Leah was tender-eyed, but Rachel was beautiful and well favored. (vs. 16)  Jacob loved Rachel and hated Leah.  When God saw that Leah was hated, he "opened her womb". (vs. 31)

It's important to understand the culture of the time.  Child-bearing was expected, required, and considered a womans' contribution to society.

Think about Sarah, Hannah, and The Shunammite Woman.  Even though they were loved, respected, and provided for they lacked that one thing...a child.

Leah was the older sister.  She was expected to marry first.  Her father must have felt that her disability would keep her from ever marrying, so he devised a plan to trick Jacob.  Now, don't start feeling sorry for Jacob!  Remember he and his mother plotted to get his brother's birthright.  Galatians 6:7 says, "Don't be misled; No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest". (Message Translation)  If you know anything about planting and harvesting, you know that you can plant a few seeds and get giant plant with thousands of seeds.  Let's remember to plant good seeds!

So poor Leah is unloved, and disrespected.  But GOD!  God saw that she was hated!  God sees everything.  He sees you on the job, he knows that promotion was really yours.  He sees you at home, he knows that you need more money or less month.  He sees your dreams, desires, and unspoken requests!  He sees the "Haters", plotting, and planning.  He knows, and he can be trusted!  Psalm 37:4 says, "Be happy with the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart!" (God's Word Translation)  So God favored Leah and blessed her with children.  In our modern day thinking, it would be like getting your education for free, the best job you could ever imagine, and that perfect significant other all in one day!
"God judges persons differently than humans do. Men and women look at the face; God looks into the heart."  (1 Samuel 16:7)

So what can we take from this? Glad you asked. "Your disadvantage never hinders your destination." - Bishop David C. Cooper.  Even if you are being mistreated, overlooked, and neglected...hang on in there!  Galatians 6:9 says, "So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit".   God is faithful.  "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take". Proverbs 3:5-6 (New Living Translation)

Have an awesome week!  Love and prayers, Cynthia