We are Life

Our spirits will never be satisfied with the things of this world because WE ARE His greatest creation.

When in search of self look up and within. At times we try to define ourselves by what we have and don't have. In a world where material possessions carry more weight than spiritual treasures it is too easy to get caught up in wanting more. When we crave for more of what matters least we lose the very thing that matters most - our God-given spirit.

God has given us talents and gifts that are to be used for good not hidden and stored up on a dusty old shelf. We often look for what can make us feel, think, or look better rather than how we can make others and the world better. All you need is within you and will be supplied by our Heavenly Father.

A child of God looking to worldly things for happiness is like a rainbow looking to a rock for color.

Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground."So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground." Then God said, "I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. ³⁰ And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds of the air and all the creatures that move on the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food." And it was so. God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.

Be Inspired...to love yourself, others, and life.

In the Right Place

A joyful state of being is knowing you are right where you belong - far from where you once were and heading to where you are destined to be.

Being at the right place at the right time is no coincidence but God's grace. When we find ourselves content and focused we are able to appreciate the things of today and look forward to the future with a positive perspective.

Always be open to God's plan for your life.

"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints 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." 1 Colossians 1:9-14

Be Inspired...to appreciate yourself and your life exactly the way it is.

Strength in a Whisper

A simple whisper from God is mightier than any noise of this world or the enemy. "

Be still and know that He is God. When we give Him our time and attention, God is able to speak to us and speak good into our lives. In a world with such an immense impact on what we see, hear, and ultimately speak and do - it is wise to spend quality time with God and truly seek Him.

With the new year approaching we need to make a commitment to becoming better people by becoming better listeners. When we hear and take heed to what God tells us we will find ourselves in a much better position and being tremendously better people.

Never be dismayed or discouraged by the information of this world. Always trust in, rely on, and believe the voice of Truth.


"A hurricane wind ripped through the mountains and shattered the rocks before God, but God wasn't to be found in the wind; after the wind an earthquake, but God wasn't in the earthquake; and after the earthquake fire, but God wasn't in the fire; and after the fire a gentle and quiet whisper." 1 Kings 19:11-13

Be Inspired...to listen to God and seek Him for understanding of your life and purpose. Know that He hears your prayers and accepts your praise.

Stand UP

Who ever said you had to stay down? We all have the option to get back up after a fall. Never be fooled into believing that the valley is your dwelling.

As children, falling was a natural part of our day. Scraping a knee or an elbow was no surprise to us at the age of two or three. As we get older we began to walk with a better stride and stand firmer on the ground beneath us. Spiritual, emotional, and mental growth is no different from learning how to walk.

When we grow within, there will be falls along the way. But as children of God the bumps and bruises we endure only make us stronger. We only grow from the mistakes we make or falls we may take when we learn from them and choose to do better. Falling is not the obstacle, standing after that fall is the biggest task to complete - it also has the greatest reward.

The next time you fall, choose not to stay down. Choose to stand and stand firm in the Word of God and in His love, protection, and forgiveness. Standing starts with acknowledging the fact that you lost balance and asking God for His mercy and receiving it. After that its all up hill - to a greater life and of course heaven.

"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you." Isaiah 60:1

Be Inspired....to stand and forgive yourself, others, and accept God's forgiveness. Never be afraid to stand after a fall because when you do you will stand stronger.

Make this moment count.

While we do not have the ability to rewind nor fast forward time, we do have the ability to make every current moment worth while.

There are times we wish we could get back and others we wish we never experienced. Time is a tool used to prosper us and grow us up; it is a source used to capture memories and learning experiences. It is a natural resource that is non renewable.While we cannot recreate past events and only hope for the best outcomes in the future, we do have the power to make this very moment count for something worthwhile. We can choose to forgive, we can choose to love, we can choose to live a life free of drama, bondage, and all else that hinders us from prosperity, healing, and happiness.

Make this moment count. Choose to Love. Choose to Live. Choose Life.

"I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice." Psalm 34:1-2

Be Inspired...to think before acting and truly try to make that best out of each situation. Before we know we are living out the consequences of our actions. Think Smart. Think WWJD :-)

The Gift of Giving

Giving -whether time, money, attention, or love- is beneficial and pivotal in growth.

When we give of ourselves in any form the benefit to others is the same for us. Filling a void is just as remarkable as having a void filled. It increases us in spirit to lend a helping hand to someone in need. Instead of living with a "what can I get out of life?" attitude, live with the intent to give something to it. Life is not all about how much money you make and how many cars you have; it's more about the legacy you leave behind. Think about what you want to be remembered for and live life pursuing that legacy. "For God so loved the world that he GAVE his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

"In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' " Acts 20:35

Be Inspired...to give.

Stand Strong. Be Immovable.

Scare tactics and mind games are used to lead us astray and into bondage. Rebel against any thoughts unlike those of God. Stand Strong. Be Immovable.

Growing up the phrase "A mind is a terrible thing to waste." was posted on billboards and used by many people concerning the importance of an education. The mind is the anchor to our lives. It is the link to our hearts. Yes out of the heart flows the issues of life but the mind is like the compass that directs our thoughts and behavior. Many say they have a pure heart but fall prey to the junk stored up in their mind.

Slavery was not made possible by the crack of the whip or the strength of the oppressor; keeping thousands of people in bondage was made possible by altering their minds. Creating a sense of inferiority from birth, with words and even the Word of God, held far too many blacks and non-whites in bondage.

Take for instance, a person in a vegetative state - the heart is pumping and other organs may be in decent shape - but the person is like the living dead without the function of the brain. Today, we need to tell our minds to cooperate with the Spirit. We need to get it through our heads that we are not dead but full of life, full of potential, full of hope, full of power - all because we are full of the Holy Spirit.

Regardless of the oppression and rejection we endured years ago or even yesterday, we have to get back up and try again. We need to step out on faith and write the books we are destined to write; begin our businesses; educate our youth; see another part of the world (whether state or country); we need to dare to dream again and go out and obtain it. We need to realize that the devil is defeated and it is very possible that we are the ones holding ourselves and each other back.

"For though we walk (live) in the flesh, we are not carrying on our warfare according to the flesh and using mere human weapons.For the weapons of our warfare are not physical [weapons of flesh and blood], but they are mighty before God for the overthrow and destruction of strongholds, [Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One), Being in readiness to punish every [insubordinate for his] disobedience, when your own submission and obedience [as a church] are fully secured and complete." 2 Corinthians 10:3-6

Be Inspired...to be successful, to love, to accept and depend on Jesus. I dare You.

Opinions of Others

"Never let another person's opinion of you become your goal." - T.D. Jakes

When we aspire to become the person others expect or want us to be we risk losing the person God created within us. One of the most important missions in life is the search of self. At a young age we engage in activities and associate with certain people in attempts to fit in and find our niche. Whether we are accepted or rejected - the sad reality is that we begin to base our self-worth and identity on the opinions of others.

The opinions of others are mere thoughts that are based on their own emotions and personal experiences. We have to realize the things that matter most are those things that we believe. We need to get to a point where the only opinion that matters is God's. And according to God, you are the apple of His eye. (Zechariah 2:8)

"Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women; what then do You say?"They were saying this, testing Him, so that they might have grounds for accusing Him. But Jesus stooped down and with His finger wrote on the ground."But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, "He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her."Again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. When they heard it, they began to go out one by one, beginning with the older ones, and He was left alone, and the woman, where she was, in the center of the court. Straightening up, Jesus said to her, "Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you?" She said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said, "I do not condemn you, either Go from now on sin no more." - John 8:7-11

Be Inspired...to see yourself the way God sees you - that's lovely, precious and full of potential.

Great is His Faithfulness

Our ability to trust God is not based on human experiences but on His Faithfulness. And Great is His Faithfulness.

Often times, we begin new relationships based on past experiences. Being curious, skeptical, and on guard describes the way in which many of us start off interacting with the people who enter into our lives. We tend to want others to prove themselves to us by showing that they can be trusted. This behavior is often carried over into our relationship with God. We want Him to perform miracles, signs, and wonders to prove something to us. Maybe you want to know if He loves you, or if He truly exists, or simply - if He is able to provide your needs.

The ability to trust God is not found in our past experiences or current circumstances for that matter; it's not in the relationships we've shared with our mother, father, sister, brother, friend, mate, or stranger walking by; Our ability to trust God is based on His Faithfulness; His Abilities; His Truthfulness; and ultimately His Word. We can not look at God the same way we look at other human beings and ourselves. We have to see Him for who He really is, and the way to know Him is to begin and maintain a relationship with Him - an open, honest, faithful relationship.

"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:19-23

Be Inspired...to trust God and depend on His word regardless of past and current issues. Moving on requires letting go.

Change occurs of Purpose and by Faith

Be inspired to seek out the reasons joy, peace, and contentment seem so far. Is it a greater need for love, patience, or God? Change occurs on Purpose and by Faith.

If God promises us abundant life but our life is far from it, we should ask: Why? Often times, we go through life murmuring and complaining about the past; about what the next person didn't do; or about what we don't have. This type of behavior must be shut down in order for any type of growth to occur. Negative seeds will produce negative fruit. Positive seeds will produce positive fruit. Change is still possible regardless of what type of morals, values, beliefs, and behaviors we grew up with. We have the ability to cut the vines of all things old and the opportunity to plant seeds of new life - love, faith, kindness, hope and prosperity.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

Be Inspired...to seek God's kingdom, will, and purpose for your life.

In Your Time of Waiting

Thank God in your time of waiting. Do not allow doubt, fear, or anxiety suppress your faith in God's willingness and ability.

In our time of waiting for what we have asked God for we may become discouraged or fall into disbelief. Instead of twiddling our thumbs and pacing back and forth, we need to continue to believe the promises of God. We have to trust His plan for our lives. There are many times we may be confused about what tomorrow holds. Because God is not the author of confusion, we have to rebel against confusion and any other thing that goes against the promises of God.

A man once asked me “What do you do when you believe in something and it never happens?” I quickly mentioned the art of positive thinking and the science of renewing your thoughts. But after careful consideration; once the man was long gone leaving me behind with only my thoughts, I wish I would have replied in this way: “It’s not raining yet. See in life there is always a slight chance of rain. But our journey in life is made much sweeter when we enjoy the sun while it is still shining. Instead of drudging around in thoughts of potential disappointment, we should stride joyfully in the hope of the miraculous possibilities.

So in your time of waiting, rejoice in what is to come. If God does not give you what you asked for it is because He thought of something better.

"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire;" 1 Thessalonians 5:18-19

Be Inspired...to thank God in advance. God is able to work according to our faith. Strive for firm faith.

Righteousness

It is through Christ we receive righteousness. Perfection is not in us but in God who dwells in us. Be strengthened. Be at peace.

Many of us fear God rather than reverence Him. We may see Him as this big, bad judge waiting for us to stumble. God is for us and not against us so much so He sent Jesus to die for our sins. Now that's an amazing love. Righteousness is not found in the things we do but in believing and accepting Christ into our hearts. Many new Christians get so stuck in religion that they neglect the fact that the love of God saves us. With the love of God, we are able to change old habits, stay on course, and seek and find His perfect will for our lives. Righteous people go to church but going to church does not make people righteous. We have to truly get God on the inside and accept the simple things about Him and ourselves. He loves us and that love saves us time and time again.

"For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification." Romans 14:17-19

Be Inspired...to accept the love of God. His love endures forever regardless of the circumstance. Never let anyone tell you any different...this includes you. We have to accept His unwavering love for us in order to live out His perfect plan.

Pursue Peace.

In all that we do, maintaining peace should be priority. God gives us precious peace that the enemy wants to steal away. This world provides material things that emulate happiness, joy, and peace. When those things are washed away we are left feeling empty and unsteady. God's peace is a prized possession that should not be taken for granted. Take time out of your busy day and spend it with the Lord. He is the King of Peace.

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is stayed on You because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3

Be Inspired..to find and maintain the peace that dwells within. Find peace in knowing that regardless of our circumstances, we have rights, as children of God, to a sound mind.

God's Love.

God's love is so much stronger than we can imagine. We have to accept it regardless of past failures and current tribulations. His love endures forever. This concept may be hard to understand because of human inability to love the way God does. But we should continue to model and grow in the image of God's love. Love in times of good and bad and when things may not be going your way. Don't keep inventory of the disappointments of life because there will be more - what good is it in knowing the cons of life. Keep tally of the infinite number of blessings God has stored up in heaven and those that have been given to you on earth. Be reminded of His love today and everyday.

"How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee." Psalm 139:17-18

Be Inspired...to discover true love and to love yourself and others the way God loves us all.

Fighting Temptation

When dealing with temptation shield yourself with the Word. The devil had the audacity to tempt Jesus. How much more will he try to tempt us?

Temptation is the same as it was in the days Jesus walked the earth. There is no sin that has not been committed. However, we should be consumed with joy in knowing that God has delivered us out and has provided an escape for us. Many of us see sin as fornication, stealing, and adultery; sin includes all things that are not pleasing to God. When we step outside of His will for us, we are sinning. Through Jesus, our sins are forgiven and we have the ability to withstand temptation. When thoughts of confusion, negativity, or fear rise up in your mind cast them down with the word of God. Jesus did it, so can we.

The Temptation of Jesus
And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry.

The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread."And Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone.'"

And the devil took him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, and said to him, "To you I will give all this authority and their glory, for it has been delivered to me, and I give it to whom I will. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours." And Jesus answered him, "It is written, "'You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.'"

And he took him to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written,"'He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you, and On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.'"

And Jesus answered him, "It is said, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'" And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time. Luke 4:1-13

Be Inspired...to accept your freedom in Christ.

Saved from Ourselves

At times, we need to be saved from ourselves. The enemy is not always outside of us but inside of our mind. Improve your quality of life by renewing your thoughts.

We often look to others and the devil to blame for our shortcomings and the unfortunate events of life. We even blame God when we miss the mark. Today and everyday after, choose to look within for improvement. Try to look at yourself and find those things that need to be changed. Our perspective and perception of life determines the way in which we live. The bible says that out of the heart flows the issues of life. We are life and we choose the way in which we live it. This is not to say we control all that happens to us but we do have the ability to control the way we respond. Walk in love, peace, and a sound mind.

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

Be Inspired...to be real with yourself and with God. Don't try to impress Him or hide things from Him. He is an all-knowing God who wants you to be the best you that you can be. Instead of denying reality accept and change it by allowing God and His Word to change you.