Sunday, November 1, 2009

Don't Let Anyone Tell You What God Can't Do


So, I decided to write something up again. I wanted to write about something that has been on my mind since September 18, 2009. Too many times in life we are our own obstacle. There are sometimes when you need to sit down, stop worrying and let God deal with some things for you. Well, my wife and I now know this first hand; that's what I'm going to write about today. It's about something very simple that I've learned, and that is... Don't Let Anyone Tell You What God Can't Do. The sad thing is that many times that someone is ourselves.



It has truly been a blessed year for my wife, Felicia, and I. We joined our church back in October, and immediately God started blessing us. In November I got a new car, and at the turn of the New Year we were putting in a contract on a new house, and as most of you know we got married in July!(Yay us) Now of course we know that every time God blesses you or elevates you, the devil tries to attack. However, I know that all things work for the good of those who love the Lord!



So, in March they begin to build our house [the house that God gave us the good mind to design very well from the ground up might I add(brick, doors, floors, carpet, roof, counter tops, cabinet, etc.)] If any of you kept up with me around that time, yall should remember I was taking yall on the journey with us around that time by putting up an album called, Felicia and I's Newest Blessing. So, I would post pics up every time we would come to check on the house. Now we have established that God had really started blessing us. So, here comes satan trying to attack. In April Felicia got laid off from her job. Did she immediately start stressing? Did we lose hope? NO, we immediately claimed that if God brought us to it He could bring us through it. Felicia immediately stepped out on faith and begin looking for jobs everywhere... literally everywhere. Her new job became looking for a job. We told our pastor and some other church family to pray for us. People begin to pray, and Felicia kept searching. April had gone by... no job. May had gone by... no job. By this time it was getting harder to stay strong knowing that the wedding was coming up. Things started to look pretty dim for us. However, we still kept the faith and tried to maintain a great attitude in the midst of the storm. God gave us favor with the people in the community we were trying to move to. So, when we stopped coming out to the community as much they knew something was wrong.



Now most of June had gone by... no job. Somewhere in that time though, Felicia had an interview with the University of Alabama. Felicia told me, the facebook world and twitter world that she was going to knock out that interview. When she left she made us aware that she smoked the interview. We prayed and waited, and at the end of June they offered Felicia the job. She started working on July 20th... PRAISE GOD! God showed up again and blessed us. However, by this time the house had already been built and waiting for almost 2 months. Remember though I told you God had given us favor with the people in the community. So, even after they found out about Felicia's lay off they kept telling us that it was our house and they were going to work with us. When they found out Felicia got hired, they were just as happy as we were. In the meantime, satan thought it was his turn to attack again. We now had to close on the house. Throughout the entire month of August we dealt with our mortgage back and forth, back and forth. We begin to think maybe it wasn’t meant to be. I went and talked to one of the ministers at my church and just told her that maybe we weren't going to be able to get the house. She immediately reminded me of what everyone had told us... "Mike that is yall's house though". Around that time, I even got a little discouraged and that is when I took the albums down off of facebook. We even begin looking for apartments. Then God stepped in and said, devil That's Enough.



Felicia came home one day and told me that there were some miscalculations, and that we could get the house. In my mind, I was thinking I know. On one bright sunny day in September, the 18th day we walked into the closing of our Newest Blessing... a beautiful home that we know God blessed us with. It was nothing that we had done; it was truly by the grace and mercy of God. So, when someone tells you that you can't make it; when someone tells you that it's not for you; when someone tells you that you're not qualified; when someone tells you that it shouldn't be... Just look at them and say No One Can Tell Me What God Can't Do! Stop being your biggest obstacle and step out on faith with some things in your life. Now, the catch is you have to make sure you stay in God's will and He will take care of the little things in your life, and yes I said little because there is nothing to hard for my God to workout. He is the Creator of all things that you can ever want or need.


Well, family as always I hope that this blog helps someone in some way. As always I pray that God will continue to bless you all spiritually, socially, physically, mentally, and financially. I love you all, and remember... SHARE LIFE John 3:36

Sunday, October 18, 2009

I want to know your ways:not just your works!

So, it’s been a while since I wrote and there are a few things that have been on my mind to write about. Sometimes in life we confuse struggling with growing. It seems as though sometimes we will never get to the status where we would like to be, but sometimes we just have to sit back and ask ourselves where does God want us to be. Well, as for me I know that God has been really dealing with me and growing me spiritually. My pastor, Bishop Jim Lowe, has been just teaching us on sharing life, getting closer to God, dying to self and many other topics. Through the study and meditation of what I’m learning, I’ve come to realize that I want to know God’s ways, and not just His works. I do realize that I should not be chasing after things created, when I can just chase after the creator!
Too many times in life we want to just see or receive the material blessings in life, but if we could just learn God’s ways we could find favor to be able to get blessings. I realize that sometimes I don’t consult God enough when faced with a big decision. One passage of scripture that was taught on a few Sundays back at church was Exodus 33:11-16. In this passage of scripture Moses had led the people of Israel out of Egypt, but now he was faced with how to lead them now that they were free. Moses asked God to show him his ways so that he would continue to find favor with him. That really hits home for me because I want to know God’s ways so I can find favor. I know if I have favor, God will be with me in whatever I do. Likewise, sometimes favor aint fair. Well, Mike what do you mean?... When you have God’s favor on your life you can do things that everyone else can’t seem to make any sense of. God starts using you when everyone says it’s impossible.
More importantly than anything else, when God blesses me or when He gives me favor I want it not just for myself, but I want to bless others. That is why I write, that is why I post positive messages all the time in my status updates; it’s simply that I may bless others in any way that I can. It really makes me happy when someone lets me know that something I said or something I wrote helped them get through their day. It makes my day complete when I know that I helped you get through your day. So if you read this pray for me. Just simply ask that God would continue to show me what my purpose is and that He would show me His ways. As always God Bless, and I love you.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Why So Long?...

Well, again family it has been a while since I wrote a blog or shared something with you. Likewise as I've mentioned before, I never write a blog just because I think of something. I always wait until I really feel like something has been placed in my heart. So, I started to ask myself why it has been so long, or Lord why haven't I gotten inspiration on a new blog. Well, about a week or so ago I was praying the same prayer I always pray; God, give me more of your Holy Spirit, show me my destiny. Well, this time when I prayed it, I felt as though God was telling me the exact thing that I really already knew because of the Spiritual leaders in my life... The first thing to do if I want more of His Holy Spirit is to get in His word more or as much as I was at one time. Sometimes things happen in life or you go through times in life where it seems like you just get busy, but we must always remember that God gives us the ability to work, or even seek a place to work. Then today at church I got confirmation on what I received. In church today the Man of God was talking about true worship. One of the many things that stood out to me was when he asked if you can worship someone that you don't know. That was very profound to me. So basically it confirmed that I have to get in my word more to get a deeper relationship with God and His Holy Spirit. It's really a simple concept, would you ask a stranger on the street for something before you asked someone in your family or your household? Basically, you would ask someone you know first. Would you love or adore someone you've never even met, would you praise someone for something if you don't know if they did what you're praising them for? No, you would not.
So in order for your worship to be pure, and in order for you to get a closer relationship with God then you have to keep Him first in all that you do. I've told you that when I write a blog it as much for me than it is for anyone else, so I have to get back in His word more, I have to continue to worship and conversate with God all throughout my day, and then I know that I will get more of His Holy Spirit. Then I know that I will begin to walk into my divine potential. Then I know that He will begin to direct my path. Then I know that I will get more of His Holy Spirit. Thank You Jesus for your love, kindness, mercy and your grace even when we don't give you the same respect. As always, I pray blessings to you and yours. I pray that God will bless you spiritually, mentally, socially, physically and financially; and that He gives you more of His Holy Spirit to lead, guide and direct you. God Bless and Love You All!

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Reveal Lord

Father God the man of God that you have placed in my life has taught us that the end result of obedience is always increase. Therefore, God right now I'm calling out to you for more of your Holy Spirit! I'm calling out to you to reveal things to me so that I may live my life pleasing to you. My pastor instructed us tonight in communion to ask God for what it is you need because you've shown yourself faithful. So God, right now I'm asking you to bless me with finances so that I may serve you more freely. I don't want to think twice about my bond payment at church! I don't want to think twice when my nephew asks me to give him $20 to help him have his gospel rap album ready for a ministry outreach event! I don't want to think twice when someone in need asks me for $5 to get something to eat! God I'm asking you to bless me with the job you have for me. I don't want dread going to work! I don't want to be happy but broke! I don't want to be broke but happy! If you give me the job that you have in store for me then I wont have to worry about either. Lord, give me more of your Holy Spirit and morevoer POWER to withstand the enemy. God you created me to take dominion over the things of this world. [Sidenote:Go get a copy of Achieving Your Divine Potential by Bishop Jim Lowe] Lord I don't want to think twice when the devil tries to tempt me! I don't want to think twice when someone asks me about Jesus, for at that name every knee shall bow and every tongue confess. Father God, I finally get it that too many times we don't get the things we ask for because we're asking for selfish reasons. Father, right now I want you to look into my heart and realize that what I'm asking for is all for the Glory of you Kingdom and Your People! As I always pray, God give me opportunities to witness, opportunities to bless others, opportunities to share my testimony, and most of all opportunities to draw souls to your Kingdom. Lord, help me to continue to let my light shine in darkness!
People if we can't see now that we're living in the last days, I don't know what it's going to take. When have you ever known of 5 well-known celebrities dying within 2 weeks of each other(Ed McMahon, Farah Fawcett, Michael Jackson, Billy Mayes, Steve McNair). When is the last time you've heard of multiple trains crashing in a span of a month(D.C. and Disney Land). When have you ever heard of more rumors of wars... [Matthew 24:6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.] When in America has more immoral laws been in place than now? People we have to wake up. GOD JUST CONTINUE TO REVEAL THINGS TO ME, SO THAT I WONT BE SURPRISED. Lord, I want to have my house in order RIGHT NOW!

As always I pray that God continue to bless each and every one of you that will read this spiritually, socially, mentally, physically and financially in JESUS NAME! If you like this, tell somebody else about it!

Sunday, June 21, 2009

I Won't Stop, Inspired by Canton Jones

Well, once again it's been a minute since I wrote a blog but as always I wait until I know I have revelation on a topic before I write. I was on my way home tonight from working out and I started to think about some things after having a talk with God. Now, all the while I was listening to Canton Jones's cd, Kingdom Business. Then it hit me, I was listening to track 4 and it was like something came over me and the words were so clear... "I Won't Stop". So many times in this Christian walk it gets hard, especially when all the witnessing, blessing, praying and sharing of God and Jesus Christ is seemingly not being accepted. Sometimes it seems like the more you put out, the more it's being ignored. Likewise, something maybe revealed to you that you just feel everyone should automatically get. However, I began to think about something that my Shepherd, Bishop Jim Lowe has explained, and that's basically that you will understand things in your Christian walk line upon line, and precept upon precept. As long as we live we will continue to grow in God. You will never get "it all". Also, I think about something that I've learned in pre-marital counselling from one of the other leaders at my church, Pastor Lawrence Conaway, and that is you can not automatically expect others to be on the same level you are in life.

So in understanding these things, I resolve to not stop! Even if everyone doesn't get it or openly accept it when I put it out there, I won't stop! Even when the 'haters' come out in full force, I won't stop! Even when the nay-sayers speak negativity in my life, I won't stop! Even if my friends turn their back against me, I won't stop! Even when they lie on me, I won't stop! Even if I lose the things that I feel are most important to me, I won't stop! Even when I'm not feeling the best, I won't stop! Even when everything in me says otherwise, I won't stop! Even if only one person gets the message, I won't stop! No matter what happens, I won't stop!

Today was Father's Day, and I must be about my Heavenly Father's business! Matthew 28:18-20 is the business of my Father, and that is what I have to do. God has been too good to me, and I have been through too much for me to keep my mouth closed about certain things when He has brought me through it. All I want we as Christians to do is wake up! If there was never a time for us to get busy drawing souls to the Kingdom, it is NOW!

As always, I pray that God blesses each and everyone who will read this. I pray his blessings in your life spiritually, mentally, socially, physically and financially! I pray more of God's Holy Spirit in your life! Likewise, keep me in your prayers!

Sunday, May 31, 2009

It's Me Again Daddy!

Look Daddy, I know you have this whole world in your hands. I know you have riches that there is no word to describe. I know that at anytime you can work mighty miracles in anyone's life. So now Father I ask that you forgive me if I get in your way. Lord I'm at the place in life where I know if I ask you for something in Jesus's Name and leave it to you, you are able to work it out. So Daddy, as I have already told you bless me with the career that is in line with my divine potential. Bless me with a career that is going to bring me happiness as well as great finances. So, Daddy right now I am trusting you to work a mighty miracle in Felicia's and My life in Jesus Name. Likewise Father, the Man of God that you have place in our lives, reminds us all the time that the end result of obedience is always increase. So Father right now we are expecting our increase so that we might be able to go out and share our tesimony. Daddy just forgive me for always getting in your way!

Saturday, May 23, 2009

The Good Life:Well, Why is it so Hard?

Well people, I’m back again. I like to inspire people whenever a topic comes to mind, however I always try to wait a few days so God can give me how He wants me to put it out there to you. This time it is a little different, because I want to give you something that has inspired me because I’ve been talking about it so much. I feel like that is enough sign for me.

It’s funny sometimes how we think about life. It sometimes seems as though living the “good life” is not desirable because it seems too hard. Now when I say good life, I’m not talking about money, cars and clothes; I’m not talking about having any woman/man you want; I’m not talking about having everyone envying you. I’m talking about the Christ Life, because as I have found out, when you live the Christ Life then you are truly living the “good life”. I have talked to a few people lately about the same thing, so that is what I will share with you now. I feel that in life there are two extremes or sides: God and the satan! Likewise, I think there is a fence or imaginary line halfway between the two. Now, when you are on satan’s side or straddling that fence life seems so easy. In other words when you’re out there in the World living any kind of way it’s all good as it seems. Well, that is absolutely true and the reason is because the devil don’t care anything about you. He’s already got you in his corner pocket so why worry about you, he has bigger fish to fry. Likewise at the same time God is so sad, because He does not like a lukewarm saint. You can’t straddle the fence when you’re claiming to be a Christian. God is probably thinking,
“Wow, I see the future I have for Mike and yet he still slaps me in the face, he still spits in my face by taking for granted the second chance that I give him daily. I’ve seen his future so I’m trying to keep him so he can live long enough to see it, but if he don’t straighten up quick I don’t know if I could keep going through this cycle!”
Now, at the same time when you cross that line or get off that fence and get on God’s side, the devil gets frustrated and now he must draw his attention back to you. So now the problems start, because he starts to fight you on every hand. satan is going to try to do everything he can to pull you back over on his side. he’s going attack every weakness that he already knows you have. he’s going to make you inferior than who you really are in God on every hand. Who knows, even the very people you thought were all you had may be turned against you.

Now this is the interesting fact people… God allows satan to test you because guess what?... Now that you are God’s side he puts His hedge of protection around you, so no matter what the devil throws at you he can’t defeat you because you’re now in the Army of the Lord! So Christians WAKE UP! Realize that there is no TESTimony without a test! Realize that God’s is only allowing you to be pulled back so He can thrust you forward! Realize that you are the Righteousness of God! Realize that you are of a different cloth from those of the World! Realize that you are to be a light everywhere you go! Realize that you have to keep giving God affirmation that you are all the way for him so he can be all the way for you. If God be for you, who can be against you? So resolve to make the devil mad every chance you get by showing him that he can’t steal your joy. If you in that spot where you feel like it aint worth all this hardship, it aint worth all this struggle, it aint worth my fun… Just remember that if God will bring you to it, He can bring you through it! John 16:33 is one of my fiance’s favorite verses and if you read it you will see why it is. It sums up this whole blog entry, so go read it for yourself and be blessed!
As always I pray God blesses each and everyone who may read this, and continue to pray for me that God will continue to present me with opportunities to witness, opportunities to bless, opportunities to share my testimony! I love you all and God bless!

Thursday, May 14, 2009

From Me to You Daddy!

Dear Father,

Sometimes in this life, it just seems like nothing we do is the right direction, nothing we do is pleasing in your sight. Then I just sit back and think that nothing negative can come from you Lord. So I know that it is the devil that wants us to feel that way. It is the devil that wants us to feel like we're too far from you for you to reach us. It is the devil that wants us to feel that you don't hear our prayers. So Father, I say to the devil "You are a lie, and you have no place in my life!" Even right now Father I feel like although I'm giving you praise and honor by witnessing, by loving, by blessing others, by spreading you every chance I get I'm still struggling, I'm still living paycheck to paycheck, I'm still having problems. But I hear in your word where it says, These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33) So Father I choose to make you proud by holding my head up, by smiling because I never know who my smile is going to bless, by witnessing in spite of, by shedding nothing but positivity every chance I get, by striving to be all that you want me to be, by keeping the faith in order to show you that I trust you!

So Daddy, I just ask that you continue to lead, guide and direct me in the way you would have me to go. Show me the career that you have placed on this Earth for me, for as I always pray... If you show me, I will obey... If you send me, I'll go... If you grant me opportunities to witness, I will capitalize on them. Daddy just help me to keep my confidence high in knowing that you are pulling me back to catapult me forward. You are giving me a test in order that I may have a testimony. You giving me work, so that it will pay off in riches and rewards in the Heavens. Lead me into my Divine Potential. Lead me into my Destiny. Lead me into my Appointment. Help me to live my life so that I may hear two words... WELL DONE!

Be blessed all of you that may read this. As always, if it blesses you don't hold it in for yourself. Tell someone else about it so that they can be blessed to!

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Testimony

As I look back over my life, and I think things over... I can truly say that I've been blessed... I have a testimony! So many times people look at your current status and think "Wow you're livin large, or ballin, or doing it big; but I always say no I'm blessed. I know that I'm only 25, but when you're the youngest of 10 and you have siblings old enough to be your parents, you feel a lot older, wiser, and seasoned. Likewise, only if people knew what you've been through and how much you've lost, they would understand why you're so happy. They would understand why you have no other choice but to trust God. They would understand why you're always talking about God. They would understand why you're going after Christ more than ever. Now it's up to you to show people why it's worth it! No success is gained by a common man, so if it was easy to get it... it may not be worth it.

Monday, May 4, 2009

FAITHFULNESS

So, once again I'm here to spread some Godly love to you all through my writing. I was saying that my next blog would be on still living as a Christian after Easter, but last night I was inspired to do differently. At communion service, the First Lady of my church (Guiding Light Church) got up and God put it on her heart to talk about faithfulness. She was just saying how sometimes it's so hard for us to get to church. Sometimes it's so hard for us to do extra around the church. Many times we say or think that we got enough church this Sunday that we don't have to go back for the rest of the month. Or we maybe thinking, "Well, God understands that right now it's tough times and a rough economy so I don't have to give all of my tithes, or I don't have to go back to church tonight. Lord, you understand if I don't go to bible study this week." Then she went on to ask, "What if God did the same thing?" What if God said, well I wont intercede on Mike's behalf today, he'll be ok? What if God said, I don't have to answer Mike's prayers today it can wait. What if God said, I've done enough for Mike for a month or so. Now this next one is the one that got me... What if God withdrew the breath of life from our bodies for just one second, one Sunday, one month?... So, that is the inspiration behind this blog entry.

A few definitions for faithfulness
1.strict or thorough in the performance of duty: a faithful worker.
2.true to one's word, promises, vows, etc.
3.steady in allegiance or affection; loyal; constant: faithful friends.
4.reliable, trusted, or believed.
5.adhering or true to fact, a standard, or an original; accurate: a faithful account; a faithful copy.
6.Obsolete. full of faith; believing.

It's amazing that when you carefully read through just these afore mentioned definitions, how many of us can say that we're are truly this way to God?... Well, I know as for me I'm so thankful for His faithfulness. So many times we want God to work miracles that you don't even understand, but yet we still remain to be "First Sunday Christians", "Fair Weather Christians", "Luke-warm Christians", "Closet Christians", and the list goes on and on. If God gave us what we deserved... wow, where would we be? It's like my pastor was saying yesterday, we go out of our way to sin. We can go out of town to shop, party, hang out, etc. but when it comes to church we can't even go back for a second service. It's easy for us to curse someone out, but hard for us to say, "Let's pray!" I know this one may get a lot of people, but I'm gonna say it anyway. It's now become easy for us to re-forward a forward about God in an email or text message, but it's hard for us to talk to people about God. The one's I hate the most are the ones that say send this to 20,000 people (lol) or have 7 years of bad luck. How are you gonna forward me something about spreading God's love when you can't even hold a conversation with me about Jesus? How are you gonna tell me that God's not going to bless me when I'm out here trying to win souls to Christ, and you're just trying to forward something so people will "think" you're a Christian?... ok I'm done with that one I had a tantrum for a minute.

So, I say to you try to be more faithful with God and watch Him move in your lifes in ways you never thought possible! Don't expect an overflow of blessings when you're out here partying with the devil all the time! Don't expect an overflow of blessings when you're out here spreading negativity through music, clothes, actions, language, etc... whoa! Don't expect an overflow of blessings when you're out here putting your self in situations where you can't be used by God! Don't expect an overflow of blessings if you can't find an excuse to be in the House of God! Don't expect an overflow of blessings if you're feeding anything kind of trash into your gates(eyes, ears, mouth and touch)! and yes for all of you who are thinking... Who does Mike think he is to be preaching to someone? Believe me all my blogs are as much for me as they are for anyone who will read them. Likewise back on November 9, 2008 when I re-dedicated my life to Christ and decided to stop the cycle of these things in my life is truly when blessings begin to flow!

When I decided to stop posting trash on facebook, myspace, etc. God started blessing! When I decided to share my blessings with others, God begin to bless me with more! When I decided to change my prayer that God present me with opportunities to witness, God started blessing! When I decided to pray for YOU more than I pray for myself, God begin to bless me! When I decided that no matter what that lil' sorry devil throw my way, I will yet trust Jesus then God started blessing!

So for all of you that think the world is so strong and you have to do too much work before you turn to God, I say "GET ON MY LEVEL"! Maybe that will help if I talk a language the world understands. Step yo' Christian SWAG up! Lean Wit it Rock Wit the Spirit of God! Hate on me Hata, you can get Mad at Me, but God gonna Bless Me! Let my Father put A RING ON IT... your life that is! Put on the Whole Armor of God and get Yo Roll On in this CHRISTIAN ARMY!
GOD THANK YOU FOR YOUR FAITHFULNESS!

As always I pray that God blesses anyone who will read this, and all who don't. I pray that my blog will bless someone, and if it blesses you then tell someone else about it. Don't hold blessings to yourself, keep them flowing. God Bless and Love You All!

You're Too Good!

*Deep Breath* God, you are the air I breathe! Your Holy Presence living in me! God I'm desperate for you, I'm lost without you! Thank you for your "Faithfulness"! In spite of all the foolishness I've done over the last 25 years, you've still gave me multiple chances to get it right! Forgive me for my selfishness. Now, Devil here I come, when you see my face I hope it gives you Hell! God Bless You All! Let's Go!

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Waiting on a Miracle!

If you are waiting on a miracle, if you are waiting on a breakthrough... guess what look up and start saying Thank You Jesus! Why?... He woke you up and kept you from Death another day! That in itself is enough to shout about. God is worthy of all the praise, so Lord right now I say Thank you for waking me up this morning and starting me on my way and allowing me to see another blessed and beautiful day, full of your mercy and grace! I ask that you lead, guide and direct me in the way I should go. I'm thanking you in advance for opportunities to witness, opportunities to bless others, opportunities to draw souls to Christ Jesus, and opportunities to be a light! Thank You Jesus!

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

It's my Birthday!

Last week one of my clients told me that 25 was a hard birthday. My response was the devil is a lie! 25 is a new beginning for me. God is taking me to an awesome place since I decided to follow Him! I feel like I have so much to do in His service. So I simply say to God, "Send me I'll go!" I was trying to get my client to see that its truly mind over matter in life. If you allow yourself to get down about getting older, you're gonna be just that... DOWN. However I choose to look up because I know that it's there where my help cometh, it cometh from Christ Jesus! God is so good to me and I wish His blessings on you also! When life gives you lemons don't make lemonade and leave a sign that there were lemons, praise God and leave a sign that there was a blessing! This is the day that the Lord made 9125 days ago and everyday since in my life and all of yours, and I WILL REJOICE AND BE GLAD IN IT! As always, I pray God's blessings on all of you and continue to pray for me! I love you all! This one was typed from my phone so excuse mistakes in Jesus Name!

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Yeah, you're in the church, but is the church In You!

Well, here I am yet again giving Glory to God by sharing thoughts that he has laid on my heart. He's been dealing with me on this one for a few days, and now I'm ready to write.

So, I forgot to call my good friend Mesha on her birthday. I called her a few days later and we were talking. I told her how I had been praying the last few months for every single person that has EVER had anything to do with my life in anyway, including family, loved ones, friends, aquaintances, co-workers, passer-bys, etc. My first prayer is always that they would find God for themselves and be saved, and that they will be blessed spiritually, mentally, socially, physically and financially. So, we went on talking about God and what He has been doing in our lives. Then I told her that now I pray that God will continue to give me boldness for Him and that I will never hesitate to talk about God or be in His presence! I went on to tell her the reason I pray that. I'm a preacher's kid, so I know church. I went to church many times 7 out of 7 days a week growing up. I was taught to pray, I was taught to be a Christian, I was taught the bible, etc. However, (watch this) when I got to school I would think twice or look around before I did something as simply as say my grace for my food. So, I said, "Wow, Mesha I'm gonna write a blog about that!"

I can even remember a time in one of my classes in college, a very tough class. PHYSIOLOGY. We were about to take a test, and a group of students gathered in a circle to pray, and me... the preacher kid is sitting there trying to pray so suttle that no one can see or hear me. Now, I know as a child I was saved and filled with the gift of the Holy Spirit. However, as I grew older maybe church just got a little too routine to me. Maybe I got comfortable knowing that I can do anything I want Monday thru Saturday and then Sunday morning ask God to forgive me and knew He would. However, who's to say that you're gonna make it back to His presence if you don't take Him with you. So, that brings me to the title. For 24 years, I was in the church, but until I rededicated my life to Christ in November of 08', church wasn't really in me. For out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh. For so as a man thinketh, so is the man. If I was ashamed to say grace, If I was ashamed to pray before a test, If I was ashamed to mention God around my Frat, co-workers, clients, friends, etc. etc..... Then maybe the church was in me, but (get this) it was not enough abundance or overflow to come out. My pastor, Bishop Jim Lowe, has been telling us that people should look at you and know you're a Christian. They shouldn't have to think you're one.

So for all of you teenagers, all of you college students, all of you adults, all of you Seniors, and especially ALL OF YOU WHO ARE CLAIMING TO BE A CHRISTIAN, I ask you: Are you ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Are you afraid to mention God or moreover the name of JESUS in front of your friends? Are you afraid to pray in that tough Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, Biomechanics, Calculus class in college amongst your peers? Are you ashamed to mention God in front of your co-workers? The main question is this: Can people see, as Mary Mary said, The God In You? Think about it for a minute?...

Now, on a side note I know a lot of people are wondering, questioning, and pondering... How in the world are Felicia and Mike doing all of these big things in such a down economy? How does Mike have a new car? How are they building a new house? How is Mike getting on average 4-5 hours to himself outside of work everyday and 4-6 hours of sleep and still have so much energy, still be so happy? This is my answer. It is simply because of this right here what I'm doing now. I don't give Satan a chance to reak havoc in my life, because I'm too busy spreading, sharing, witnessing the Glory of God and what He can do for you if you would just get Him in your corner. Well, as for me and my house we will serve the Lord! That is how we're doing it.

In closing, ask God to forgive you for being ashamed of Him. Ask Him to give you opportunities to witness, to share blessings, to draw souls to Christ Jesus! That has been my prayer since the end of last year, and it is truly happening every day now. Praise God for everything He has, is and will do in my life! As always I pray God's blessings in Jesus's name on each and every one of you who will read this entry. I pray that God gives you more of Him, and that you be blessed Spiritually, Mentally, Socially, Physically and Financially! And likewise, as always continue to pray for me in the same!

I would say excuse any spelling or grammatical errors as I used to say, but when I start writing I have to get everything out that God has layed upon my heart. So I don't stop until I get to the end. Sometimes I catch mistakes, sometimes I don't. So, if you're too busy picking out my mistakes, then you're missing the whole message...lol Be blessed!

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

God is always in control even when we can't understand how he is steering us! Think about it!

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

The Pit of Depression/Negativity is Endless!


Well, people I'm back yet again with another thought. I guess as God deals with me more I have more thoughts, so I guess that means more entries...lol.

This is something that has been on my mind a few days now, and I feel like writing about it now. It's almost a continuation of Got Haters?(my last entry that was typed and not sent from my phone) Basically where I left off in that one was talking about negativity. I truly believe that depression and negativity are an endless pit! Well, why do you say that Mike?... Think about it: The more you worry about a matter, it seems like the worse it gets. The more you hate a job, the worse it gets. The more you say you're not a morning person, the harder it is to get up in the morning. And as I said in my entry titled Resolution, I resolve that when I begin to worry about a situation I will catch myself and say Lord, let your will be done. I resolve that I'm going to catch myself when I first stumble upon that pit of negativity, so that my climb out is not as steep! Woah... Think about that one for a minute. The more you fall into nagging co-workers, the more you fall into sorry baby's daddys, the more you fall into financial lack, the more you fall into gossip, the more you fall into speaking negatively, the more you turn away from God... The harder it is to climb out, the harder it is to be removed from the situation, the harder it is to get closer to God!

I will share a story with you(whomever the reader maybe) that I've shared with none but some of my clients and I think Felicia can remember the situation but didn't know how severe it was.
Last year in June, I wrote my first blog after my brother, Darrell had suggested it to me. My first blog was originally on myspace and it's entitled Life is Like Nike, Just Do It! (Go check it out on here if you haven't) Basically in that blog I wrote about being positive and not making excuses for yourself. There were a few people who read that and said that it was good, or that it blessed them. Now, all the way back last year the Devil probably saw what my writing would be today and begin to fight. Later on June 28th, my Father passed away. I then wrote a blog called My Profile Song, and at the time my profile song was I'll Be Praying for You by the Seven Sons of Soul. In the first month of me writing, I had written about 3-5 blogs. I was spreading all this good cheer and info and I was in a depressive state. I told Felicia, "I don't know what's wrong with me but it just feels like I don't want to do anything." The only time I felt like I was living is when I was at work with my clients, or when I made it to church. All the time I was at home, I felt empty. I had no energy, I didn't want to work out. I started to gain weight. I was sinking deeper and deeper into the Endless Pit of Depression & Negativity! I can remember Felicia asking me, "Do you think you're grieving internally, and it's just your body's way of telling you?" All I can remember thinking is that being from a huge family I had seen so much loss that I didn't think that was it. But now I know what it was, it was the Devil trying to hold me back from getting to that one Sunday morning in October when Felicia and I looked at each other and said today is the day we join our church! The Devil was trying to hold me back from all of the many blessings he's been restoring upon me! The Devil was trying to hold me back from writing these blogs to inspire, uplift and bless You! The Devil was trying to hold me back from the work that I'm beginning to do in my church! The Devil was trying to hold me back from the many great things God has planned for me that I don't even know of right now! And let me tell you the reason why I know it's an endless pit; I fell so far in it that I'm still shaking off the dirt from it even today!
So I write this blog simply to give everyone who reads it encouragement, to say Get Up Now from your Negativity before it turns into Depression. As my pastor, Bishop Jim Lowe sometimes say, I don't want to go through Hell to experience blessings while in this life. So I write this simply to warn you that if there is anything ailing you right now just simply give it to God, and be done with it. A scripture my pastor brought out: I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33) No, it's not always going to be easy. But if you worry or complain, it's not going to make the problem any better until God wants to fix it anyway. So line yourself up to make Him want to move a little quicker! As always may God Bless anyone who has, is and will read this. Continue to pray for me that God will keep dealing with me in a mighty way! I love you all!

Resolution!

I resolve that every morning I wake up, Satan and his angels are in trouble! I resolve that this is the day that the Lord has made, and I will rejoice and be glad in it! I resolve that it is by the Lord's hand that I will be lead through this day! I resolve that I will do my best to guard my thoughts, words, actions, character and destiny! I resolve that if any opportunity presents itself for me to witness, or invite someone to church, or share a testimony, Lord I will do it! Now, under the eyes of God, I resolve that I will be blessed when I come and blessed when I go! I resolve that I will lift up those around me! I vow that I will do my best on my jobs to show myself worthy of promotion, to show myself worthy of a better job! I vow that on this day, I will inflict heavy and severe casualties to the enemy of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Got Haters?...

Well, it's that time again! This entry was inspired by a sermon title that my Sister was telling me my cousin did last time he came home. The title was, "Go Ahead and Hate On Me, because Your Hating Is Going to Elevate Me." The way we got on the topic was the fact that I was telling her about a situation that I was facing. However, in the midst of the situation that seemed to be blatant hating or jealously, I never once got down about the situation or tried to return the hating. I just would say everytime God Bless them.

Then it came to me as clear as day... Why would you even entertain a Hater? If you think about it, as long as you entertain a hater or someone or something that is put in your life to be a hender and not a helper, you are giving that someone or something the power over you and your situation. So, choose to respond the way God told me to respond, and simply pray even harder for those roadblocks, be it people, places or things(situations). When you do that and forget about, you're removing yourself from the situation and simply saying Lord move in my behalf. Yes, believe me I know that sometimes it is hard to do that. I have situations and circumstances in my life right now that could get me down, but I choose to say God because I am your Covenant Child, because I am obeying the Leader you have placed in my life, God because I love you not just for what you do but for who You are, God because I know Faith can move mountains.... I trust and know that You are going to work this thing out!

Now, at the same time (please read this paragraph carefully) if you are going to trust God about a situation, person, or anything that henders your growth and advancement it is but a slap in the face of God if you ask him to fix a situation and you go on worrying about it. My pastor, Bishop Jim Lowe, was talking about negative spirits Sunday in his sermon and how they are not of God. One thing that stood out to me was when he said, not in these exact words, but "Negativity" indicates to God that you don't have the faith that he can work out a situation. Wow... think about that for a moment. God, Please take care of this sorry dude in my life, God, Please help me to be able to deal with my co-worker, God, Please help me to pass this class, God, Please help me to get a raise or a better job! Then we turn around and fuss with the sorry dude, then we turn around get an attitude before the co-worker even opens their mouth, then we turn around and not study to get the grade, then we turn around and half do the job that we have! Hello, you can get a raise if you're not putting in the work! Hello, God is not going to bless us with the new job if we're not putting our hearts into the one we have now. Yes, believe me I'm talking to myself too!

I said all that to say this paragraph here...
I told you a few entries back that I know that God tests you at every level, and you who know me know that God has been blessing me left and right, in my going in and my coming out! However, you see the blessings, but you don't see the trials I'm going through daily. Some days, I just have to catch my breath and put a smile on my face, because I wonder how I'm going to make it through. Then as Lecrae(an amazing gospel rap artist, go buy his newest album Rebel) says, I sober up and realize how God sent his only begotten Son to die on the cross for my sins. Wow, in other words if He does not another thing for me, He's already done enough. Likewise, I wake up every morning and conclude that no matter what comes my way, I'm going to trust and depend on God every step of the way. For, If the Lord delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hands (Psalms 37:23-24 I can testify to the fact that life is so much better when you have that outlook.

So, for the single Mother, for the struggling college student, for the single Father, for the Man/Woman that just wants a relationship with God, for the jobless, for the week-minded, for the person who don't know where to turn, for the person who does not know where the next meal, check, opportunity is coming from, for the single Woman, for the single Man, for the young person trying to sustain, for the sick, for the HATERS, for the HATED... just give it to God, and I mean really give it to God and let go. So many times we try to help others with quotes, prayer, advice, but how many times do we apply it to ourselves... something to make you go hmmmm. Well, I am going to take all my advice.

And this is why, I know I am going to be alright. Now, I have to calm down before I start shouting...lol As always, I pray that everyone who has read, is reading, or will read this will bless beyond measure. God Bless You, and if this does something for you, don't keep it to yourself. Tell somebody else about it, or now I've set it up where you can email someone. Be blessed!

Monday, March 16, 2009

Yes!


Lord for the work and the divine appointment that you called me to do even before I was conceived, I simply say Yes! For I know that this is Truly where my blessings rest when I begin to walk in the way you would have me to go. As my pastor, Bishop Jim Lowe, said today I don't want to have to go through Hell to know that God is with me. So, I choose to walk in the direction you lead me now Lord, so I can learn not from my mistakes but from my journey. So again Lord, I say Yes! As always, if you are reading this I pray God's blessings on your life! Show me your Will God, for I know I was created to excel and not fail, that is my divine potential!

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Prayer

If you know the word of prayer, pray for me! Simply pray that God would give me more of Him, and that he will order my steps.

Favor

God grant me the favor you gave Joseph! Read Genesis Chapters 37-45! It's amazing the provisions God makes for you when you have his favor, even in a strange and foreign land. As always, may God Bless all who reads this!

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Are You Serious!...

I was watching the Ellen Degeneres Show yesterday, and she questioned Diddy about why he provided Chris Brown and Rihanna his facilities to talk it over and get back together. Diddy's exact words were:"I know both of them, and it's my house and I'm allowed to give my house to whomever I want to give my house too. That's #1. #2 is that I'm the type of person that I don't cast a stone or don't cast judgement on anybody. And so if a friend asks me for a favor, I'm gonna be there for them as long as I know that the energy of that favor is positive for two people to sit down and talk about a situation that they are in." He said that he was basically there a support for friends. Ellen said, "I understand where you're coming from, but I just don't want any girl out there to think it is ok to go back to a guy that hit her." So I was driving home from my morning shift at work a few minutes ago, and Steve Harvey had a representative from Essence on his show talking about the stand that they are taking against this situation and domestic violence in general. Steve Harvey basically went on to say everything that I feel, so I'm inspired to write an entry to my blog on this topic.

Are You Serious!... I don't pass judgement on people either, and by that I'm not saying that Chris Brown, who was one of my favorite artist and is still a very talented individual, is going to Hell for what he did because God forgives us continiously when we seek him. However, I am saying that there is no excuse for a Man, if that is what you call yourself, to hit a female... PERIOD! I understand where Diddy was coming from also, but at the same time if you call yourself a man you should walk away. She burnt me... WALK AWAY! She slapped me first... WALK AWAY! She lied on me... WALK AWAY! She spit in my face... WALK AWAY! She did whatever... WALK AWAY! Now I know that sometimes it seem as though females know all of the right buttons to push to take you to "that point", but there is still no excuse.

I also realize that a lot of times it is a stem of the way you were raise, and as for me. I never once, in the 11 years that I lived before my Mother died, saw my Father even raise his hand to strike her. Yes, I've heard them argue. Yes, I've saw him angry at her. Still never saw him hit her in any way. Now, I'm the youngest of 10 so I can't speak for all of my siblings I'm just speaking for myself. If you did come up in a household like that, then you gotta go to the only one who can change your outlook... GOD and ask him to show you how to be a man.

As for all of my beautiful Black, White, Brown, Red, Yellow, etc. women out there just know that if it happened once, you better believe it can happen again. Don't feel like you can't escape. Don't feel like you need a man to make it, because if he hits you he wasn't a Man in the first place. (notice i didn't capatalize the first man) Don't feel embarassed and like no one cares. Don't feel like you he loves you anyway and it'll never happend again. STOP BEING STUPID AND GET OUT OF THE SITUATION BEFORE IT ENDS IN DEATH! I'm quite sure every woman out there has some Man in their life that would help them out if they knew what was really going on. Don't take matters into your own hands. Get help if it ever happens.. the first time!

So for one last time, I'll say Are You Serious!...
As always be blessed!

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Amazing to Me!

It is truly amazing to me how we can wake up every morning, have our life, health and strength, have clothes to put on our backs, some food to eat, have a job to go to in this down economy(even if it is not the job we want), go to school, do everything we take for granted and not thank God once during our "what we call busy day". Well, as I said before I will continue to spread the Joy of Jesus through my testimony and my blessings! God has and is too good to me for me not to spread it. Bless the Lord O My Soul and all that is within Me! My Pastor talked about the importance today of the testimony. God is really doing wonderful things in Felicia and My Life! Our house is about to be built, we're getting married in July and one of our good friends is paying for our honeymoon! (Thank You Jesus) The greatest of our worries are becoming the least of our worries. You already know about my new car God blessed me with. My career is about to go places I never imagined, as well as Felicia's! Felicia is soon to get her new car. Yes, some may say "How are yall doing all of this in a down economy? Are you all not scared of all of these big moves?" Well, if you knew like I knew that all these things are not being done by our hands, but by the work of the Lord in our lives you wouldn't even question it as we are not questioning God. In fact we know we are Covenant Children of God, so this and many other blessings are just a little of what we can expect as long as we honor the Covenant of God in our lives! Once again, as I will remain to do in all of my posts I pray God's blessings on anyone who reads this! For I know I was created to excel and not fail, that is my divine potential!

Friday, February 27, 2009

L.O.U.D.

L ift up your voices, O ut to the heavens, U nder the annointing, D ont you be afraid to, L et everyone know, O ver and over, U got the victory, D ont you understand!

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

To My Clients

Put the doughnut down, and pick up a dumbbell! Lol, if you want to go somewhere you've never been, you have to do something you've never done to get there! Love you all!

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

In times like these!

In times like these... We're gonna need a Saviour, we're gonna need a friend! In times like these... With all that is going on in the world today, with the economy, with the violence, with the hate, with the war, with everything else that is going on in our World, there is no one else who can help us but God! We took prayer out of the schools, and the Devil came in. We removed the Ten Commandments, and hate, adultery, crime, lying, jealousy and idol worshipping is running at an all time high. The sooner we realize that we can not solve it, the better off we'll be. God constantly knocketh at the door of our lives, but it is up to us to let him in. Please do yourself a favor, do your children a favor, do your friends a favor, do your co-workers a favor, do your enemies a favor, and ultimately do this World a favor by welcoming God back home in this World and in each and every one of our lives! I love you all, and be blessed!

Monday, February 23, 2009

Ordered

I don't know His mind, but He will reveal it all in time. For every step of a righteous man is ordered by God! Thank You Father for ordering my steps!
I have no other choice but to trust you! So many times in life before I tried and tried to do things my way. I thought that I was smart enough, I thought I knew enough to handle myself. I didn't realize the problem was, the struggle was between my Will and yours, but now I'm giving up my will for Your's, I'm totally depending on you, so Lord please come through! I have no other choice but to trust to You! -Tye Tribett

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Warning

You will probably see more entries from me this week than ever now that I have more time to communicate with God. So many times we don't realize how easy it is to pray and communicate with God. I just want you to know that if you are reading this my constant and ongoing prayer is that God will bless everyone who has anything to do with me to be blessed with more of him, and if you are reading this you are in fact a part of my life! Be blessed!

Revelations from God!

I title this blog as I do because that is exactly what I am expecting from God! As you know from my last entry I am sustaining from the internet for 7 days. Its amazing that I did it on yesterday because today my pastor, Bishop Lowe, was telling us that God has 7 days to show up and take care of some things concerning Guiding Light and I was like "Woah!" So I am expecting God to reveal himself in ways I never imagined this week. I'm expecting revelations on how I can contribute to my ministry! I'm expecting revelations on how God is going to do a new thing in my finances! I'm expecting revelations on Felicia, my fiance', will get that job that God has for her to allow her to be in church! I'm expecting revelations on where God wants me to go in my career! I'm expecting revelations on how to have a wonderful marriage and always put God first! I'm expecting revelations on spiritual, mental, social, physical and financial blessings! These things I expect because my Sheperd has taught me that I am a covenant child and because the end result of obedience is always increase! For I was created to excel and not fail, that is my divine potential!

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Truly Amazing

I just left a Men's Fellowship Breakfast and Movie at my church and it was truly a blessing, nothing short of amazing. The movie we watched is Fireproof (PLEASE IF YOU GET A LITTLE SPARE CHANGE, GO GET THIS ESPECIALLY IF YOU'RE IN ANY KIND OF RELATIONSHIP WITH SOMEONE). I had been hearing people talk about the movie, and some of my clients and others was telling me how it was a life-changing movie. Well, I experienced first hand that it is. I will not spoil the movie for you, but basically what I got out of it was: We always look for God to give us a way out of situations, or ask him to fix our problems; but do we really get ourselves out of the way so he can?... Every since my fiance'' and I joined our church back in October, God has truly been taking me to new places spiritually, mentally, socially, physically and financially. However, on the other hand he's allowed me to be tested on every front. Well after watching this movie I realize that although we ask God to fix our problems, we don't A.S.K. God! Allow me to expound on what I mean:

My pastor had been teaching a series on ask, and he actually broke it down to us in a simple way... A.S.K. Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! (Matthew 7:7-11 NIV) It was amazing when he broke the word ask down into an acronym, you never see it as A.S.K., Ask Seek Knock. So in essence he was telling us that when you ask God, it is three-fold: asking or praying to God in the Spirit, seeking or worshipping and praising God through a connection in your soul, and knocking or making a physical effort with your body.

Well, honestly after watching this movie, I get it. Every since I re-dedicated my life to Christ, I've been asking, I've been seeking, but I haven't made that full comittment with my body as far a giving up those things that separated me from my Father. For to love God, is to know God, and to know God is to obey him!

Our pastor also began a new series on prayer last Sunday, and he was saying that you have to get naked with God... I know at first the congregation was like huh... Well, basically all he was saying is that if you really want God to bless you and be in control of you life, then you have to put it all on the table and not hide anything from him. Think about it, he knows everything we do anyway so why try to hide it. So this is me getting naked with God and not caring who knows about it. Over the last few months since I've gotten my life back on track, I've been tempted with not Drugs, not Alcohol, not Fornication, not Lying, not Hate, not Gossip, but with a lust demon in the form of what my eyes were taking in from this very screen that I type this entry on now. So, if you are reading this I ask that you pray for me that God will honor my nakedness before him and heal my land. "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."(2 Chronicles 7:14) Now, I have asked, I have seeked so now I am going to tell you how I am going to knock.

Starting as soon after I post this entry on here, myspace, facebook and iseecolor (frequent sites where I blog) I am going to give up the internet and computers in any way, shape, form or faction for 7 full days in expectance of a miracle and deliverance from the Lord. I am expecting and claiming that when I return to this very screen things will not look the same, things that were enticing before will be laughable(don't know if I spelled that right) in 7 days. So, if you are trying to reach me, even if it's too comment or let me know that you've read this. You can contact me on my cell by text or calling. Now, if you don't have my number and you really want to reach me if we are in fact close enough you should be able to find someone who can put you in contact with me. I will not be checking any of my emails, or turning my laptop on for any reason, so again you can reach me by my cell or by prayer! :) May God Bless All Who Reads This, Amen!

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Mothers(Grandmothers)

Mothers Never Really Die, They Just Keep House Up In the Sky.
Death beckoned her with outstretched hand
And whispered softly of "An Unknown Land"
But she was not afraid to go
For though the path she did not know,
She took Death's Hand without fear,
For He who safely brought her here
Had told her He would lead the way
Into Eternity's Bright Day...
And so she did not go alone
Into the "Valley That's Unknown"
She gently took Death by The Hand
And journeyed to "The Promised Land"...
And there, with step so light and gay,
She polishes the sun by day
And lights the stars that shine at night
And keeps the moonbeams silvery bright...
For Mothers never really die,
They just "Keep House Up In the Sky"...
And in the Heavenly Home Above
They wait to "welcome" those they love.
This is a poem that my Senior Advisor, Mrs. McTier gave me in high school. I never even expected it, but when she gave it to me it was right on time. Well, recently my cousins' grandmother went on to be with the Lord and hopefully they will read this and it will bring some of the same comfort that it brought me. Love you Toni, Nina, Tecee, Robbie and Edwin! God Bless you all in your time of need.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Today Lord, I will find a way to lift you up! I will find a way to love you more! Sometimes people may wonder why miracles don't always happen now like they happened in the bible days. I simply think sometimes we don't have the faith that the people in bible times had. How many of us can loose our job, house, car, family and friends and yet say I will still trust Jesus!(Job) How many of us can believe that if we were just touched by the Man or Woman of God, we would be healed from all our sickness, hurt and pain(woman with the issue of blood) There are many other examples, so my prayer is that God will increase my faith in Him! I will find a way to witness!

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

I love my clients. They are truly my motivation for staying consistent!

Monday, February 9, 2009

WOW!

Sometimes that is all I can say when I think about the goodness of God and all that he has, is, and will do for me! Thank You Jesus!

Thank God!

When life gives you a lemon, Praise God! Remember that life could always be a whole lot worse than we "think" it is! If we are truly his Children why do we get sour. So don't just make lemonade and leave evidence that you had a lemon. Praise God and leave evidence that you've been blessed!

Daily Thanks to God!

Today I am thankful for the blessings that God has bestowed upon me! I am thankful for my family and loved ones. I am also thankful for where the Lord is taking me spiritually, mentally, socially, physically and financially!

More of You

God it is my prayer that you would give me more of you on this day, and that you would help me to realize that once I get it in my thick head that if I seek you first, I don't have to worry about my needs, wants or desires. Thank you Father for more of you!

Today(written on my G1 a few weeks ago)

Father today I remove myself out of your way for I will not worry about what tomorrow will bring but I will praise you for today. I will not worry about the financial struggles of tomorrow, but I will praise you for my life, health, and strength today. I will glorify and bring honor to your name and your being every chance I get. For today, I am blessed!

If you change your outlook, you can change your outcome! So as a man thinketh, so is he!

I wake up around 4a.m. every morning, and by the time I get to my car the Steve Harvey Morning Show is starting. Well I always like to listen to the first 30 minutes of the show, mainly because that is the inspirational portion of the show where Steve gives somewhat of a testimony and plays a gospel song. Well, I thank God for Steve Harvey because there are many things that he has said that sticks with me and gets me through my days! Last week I heard him say...
"If you change your outlook, you can change your outcome!"
Basically all that means is that if you continue to think you are a failure in life, you're going to continue to be a failure. If you continue to think you're not a morning person, you will never be a morning person. If you continue to think you can never get a new job, car, house, you will never get it. If you continue to think that you can't find a good man or woman, you will always be lead to the wrong man or woman. It makes me think of Proverbs 23:7 "For as he (being a man/woman) thinketh in his heart, so is he...
If you change your outlook, you can change your outcome!
So come on people start thinking that you are the first and not the last. Start thinking that you are the head and not the tail. Start thinking that you are a lender and not a borrower. Start thinking that you are a morning person, and that you love to get up in the morning because it is another day that God has allowed you to have an oppurtunity to... change your outcome. Start thinking that God is going to send Mr. or Ms. Right your way. Start thinking that you will receive your new car, house or job. Something I've been training myself to do is to stop saying I hate anything, or saying that I don't want to be here (meaning anywhere where I'm at). I've started to train myself to say Thank God for wherever you will take me on this day. I just pray that you lead, guide and direct me when I get there.
If you change your outlook, you can change your outcome!
It makes me think of Kirk Franklin! The quicker you realize that the Storm is Over Now, the better off you will be. No more cloudy days, they're all gone away. I feel like I can make it, the storm is over now. He saved my soul, he made me whole. He's the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last. He will pick you up and turn you around, he'll place your feet on solid ground. He wont never put more on you than you can bear. So I resolve that no matter what I go through, God can bring me to it and take me through it! For I know that... The Storm Is Over Now! So again people...
If you change your outlook, you can change your outcome!

Sunday, February 8, 2009

When everyone counts you out. God will bring you up! Favor is an amazing thing. Praise God for your favor!

Friday, February 6, 2009

Guaranteed Blessings (written January 30, 2009)

It's been a while since I last wrote a blog and I have thought about writing one every since my last one. This one really makes me happy to even think about. I was raised in the church being a PK(preacher kid) and all, so I was taught the power of prayer and how to be a Christian. However, maybe because of different life events or because I just didn't get it living as a Christian seem to be a struggle. When I came to college I visited different churches, and then later I begin to play the drums for a church only as a job though and I was not growing spiritually. Well, one of the churches that I visited from time to time was Guiding Light Church here in Birmingham. From the first time I visited I always enjoyed service and even more I loved the messages that the pastor, Bishop Jim Lowe would bring. Then in the last year or so it starting really being heavy on my heart for my fiance', Felicia and I to join. Bishop Lowe would always say those powerful words, "Harden not your heart to the voice of the Lord". So back in October 2008, we finally joined our church. It seems as though immediately after we joined God begin to pour blessings into my life. Another message that my pastor always tell us is that he gives us the uncut word of God, so go out and kick the Devil's butt and if you don't it's your fault. So I begin to change my mind and outlook about the way I looked at life in general. Then his messages shifted towards God's Covenant and how to stay blessed. Basically he was trying to get us to see that the way you guarantee your blessings is that you unrelentlessly give God honor for the blessings he has bestowed upon you and pray blessings on others. Then in November, I re-dedicated my life to Christ and blessings got even greater. Then as you know I began to be tested almost immediately. I've been tested in the faithfullness of paying my tithes. I've been tested in the act of witnessing and giving my testimony, and a host of other ways. I can truly say that I keep God in my corner and he gets me through it every time. Likewise, this past Sunday he did a call to the congregation who wanted more of God to come to the alter. Knowing, because of what he has taught us, that is the true way to excel in life and that everything we do must be to the Glory of God I went to the altar, and as I prayed I heard these words. "Now all of you who came to the altar, just know that you're gonna be blessed but you're also going to be tested." God tests your faith at every level you accomplish in life to see if you're ready to be catapulted to the next level. So... yes I'm being tested every day, but I think back to the words of Steve Harvey, "If you can just keep God in your corner, he will take care of you. You don't have to go to him in a special way. You don't have to be perfect, but just talk to him!" Now every chance I get, I praise God and say thank you!So now that I've gave you a background let me secure my continued blessings by telling you how God has been blessing me. One month after I joined my church, God blessed me to be able to get the exact new car I wanted (2009 Toyota Camry SE V6, leather, heated seats, compass in the mirror, navigation system, jbl audio 4 disc changer sound system, 3.5L duel overhead cam engine, etc.)! Yeah, Praise God. Around the same time, God begin to make me feel overwhelmed about my jobs. I go to work every day excited to work with my clients and my kids! During the Christmas season, clients all together gave me over $400 in money and gift cards. Now the newest blessing is Felicia and I have been looking for a house and we meet with our realtor Saturday to possibly sign our contract(Pray for us)! I can go on and on. My whole purpose of writing all of these words is to let you know that no matter or regardless of the situation that you are going through right now, you should know that it is nothing to hard for God. If God healed the sick and raised the dead, then why can't he take care of a bothersome co-worker for you? Why can't he take care of a deadbeat relationship for you? Why can't he take care of a new car for you? Why can't he take care of a new house for you? Why can't he take care of a job period for you? Why can't he heal your sicknesses?... It is simply because you don't believe and I say that with all sincerety. Believing is an action, If you praying to God for anything, then believe and go get it. So many times we get in our own way, God has already worked it out he's just waiting on you to get out of the way and let him move. That doesn't mean do nothing, it just simply means claim it and believe it when you do!I pray God's blessings on anyone who takes the time to read all of these thoughts that were just on my mind, and I ask that in return you would pray for me and all those in your life... family, loved ones, friends, associates, co-workers, even your enemies.P.S. Forgive me for any spelling or grammatical errors. I started typing and did not stop until..... now!

I need prayer! (written January 1, 2009)

You know in life sometimes it seems like we don't know which way to turn. It seems as though everytime we're doing good, there is some problem to knock us back down a step or two. However, it is a true sign that God is dealing with us. When you're not trying to do right or live right everything seems so easy. It's like Kanye said, "Everything that supposed to be bad makes me feel so good, and everything they told me not to is exactly what I would." Now, God has been dealing with me to help me to realize that the road is called straight and narrow for a reason. The greater the struggle, the greater the reward! Likewise when it seems as though nothing is ever right, it is God way of testing you to see if he can take you to that next level. I've noticed that everytime it seems as though I'm struggling blessings come unexpected and out of no where. Then it's like I hear a small voice say, "I told you not to worry!" So my prayer request is for everyone that is reading this to pray that I stay out of God's way and let him work when I ask him to. There's a gospel song out there that says, If you're gonna pray don't worry. That is the true test of a Christian. I know that God is dealing with me in a special way and has great things in store for me in 09 that started in 08, so pray for me that I stay in the Will of Good to be blessed!

My Prayer (Originally written on July 20, 2008)

You know it's amazing sometimes when you're trying to live a life that is right so that one day you can hear those special words, "Well done thy good and faithful servant"! The funny thing is we make it harder than it is sometimes. I once heard Steve Harvey say on his morning show how much better off we would be if we just kept him close. You don't have to be perfect but so many times we have a hard time doing the simple things like talking to God or reading the bible as much as we read Muscle & Fitness, Men's Health, Maxim, or the Sports section(as you can see I'm talking to myself). So sometimes we lay down without even telling God Thanks for another day of life. Since I love to type and write, I'm going to just type out my prayer.

My Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Dear Heavenly Father I want to first thank you for waking me up this morning and starting me on my way and for just helping me to see another day full of your mercy and grace. For I know that maybe I didn't deserve to enjoy life another day but you saw fit to give me another opportunity to get it right, and for that I thank you! Lord right now I also ask that you would forgive me of all the sins that I have committed seen and unseen, known and unknown; and Lord I also would like to thank you for blessing me spiritually, mentally, socially, physically and financially. Lord I ask and thank you for showing me what my purpose is in life, and my true divine potential and destiny.

Lord right now I ask that you would bless all the people in each and every facet of my life right now. Bless all my siblings and their families (Prince III, Princess, Darrell, Denita, Rodney, Ronald, Israel, Jennifer, and Latasha). Bless them all in every aspect of their lives. Keep them safe from all hurt, harm and danger or snares by the enemy. Bless my beautiful girlfriend Felicia. Bless her to give you the glory in all the success that she will gain because of the bright future that I know is ahead of her. Lord I also ask that you would bless our relationship, bless me to be the husband that she needs when that time comes. Lord I also ask that you would bless each and every one of my friends past and present. Bless them with the desires of their hearts. Also Lord I ask and thank you for blessing each and every one of my Fraternity Brothers (locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally). Be the foundation of this great organization. Lord I also ask that you will bless my co-workers, relatives, neighbors and anyone else in my life. Bless me so that I can be a blessing to all those around me.

And Lord now that I have ask for all these things, help me to have the health, mind, and ability to seek these things. Help me not to be one that just asks and not act in faith. Give me the guidance to seek ye first and then Lord I know all these things shall be added unto me. And finally Lord when I get to the door of these things that I have requested, give me the courage to knock at the door so that I may obtain them. Help me to be a lender and not a borrower, a leader and not a follower, a victor and not a victim, a winner and not a quitter. Then Lord when that time comes for me to meet you, thank you for helping me to live my life in such a way that I will hear those sacred words, "Well done thy good and faithful servant" for that is truly what I want you to say. I thank you for all the things you have done in my life, the things you are doing right now, and the things you are going to do, and it is Jesus' name I do pray Amen!

An Idol Mind is the Devil's Workshop(Written July 20, 2008)

An Idol Mind is the Devil's Workshop

When I was younger I heard that all the time, and I always wondered what it meant. Now that I'm older, I've just begin to get some kind of understanding of what it means. This morning in church the sermon was about destiny. The scripture that he focused on was the one (forgive me for forgetting the passage) where it says if you ask, it shall be given unto you, seek and ye shall find, knock and the door will be open unto you. Well, of course that is a familiar passage also, but he broke it down in a good way today. He said people usually just stop at asking, but after you ask you have to seek what you have asked for then when you find where you're trying to go you have to knock. I also heard someone on tv talking about how they avoid doing bad things or unnecessary things in their spare time. Their response was they don't allow themselves to have to much spare time. In other words even if it is reading a book or researching something you have to stay busy. The last few weeks have been pretty rough for me. After two weeks off of work and exercise, its rough to get back in the groove of things. Then I said to myself, "Self you gotta do what you always tell everyone else(It's like Nike, Just Do It!)" So, starting today, I'm going to try to regain control and stay busy. I realize that if you want something it's not just going to flop in your lap. You have to ask for it, then you have to seek it, and when you find it you have to knock. I figure if I keep busy with positive thoughts and deeds, I wont have time for any negativity to make its way into my life.

An Idol Mind Is the Devil's Workshop

My Profile Song!(Originally written on June 30, 2008)

My profile song!

My profile song!I changed my profile song about three weeks ago. At the time I just liked the sound, but I didn't really pay attention to the words. Who would've thought that three weeks later it would be just what I needed to make it through another tough day. My Father left this life on Saturday, June 28, 2008. Then and even now I didn't know how I would make it every day without my Father. People started to call, text and email me. They said the usual..."Hey Mike, I was just calling to check on you. Let me know if there is anything that I can do for you." My response was simple each time. I'm doing fine, just continue to pray for me and my family. Sometimes prayer is the only thing that can get you through those tough times in life. If there is one thing that my parents taught me and my nine siblings, it is to always pray. Today when I went to my profile and my profile song started to play, it was so relaxing and I begin to listen to the words. The song really made my day, and it's Praying 4 you by the 7 Sons of Soul. Sometimes in life all we need is a song or a few words to lighten the load on our shoulders. Always be open to messages around you everyday. Thank you all for your prayers and kind words of solace. Truly, I love you all!

My profile song!

Life Is Too Short! (Originally written on June 24, 2008)

This is my second blog, and I titled it the way I did for various reasons.
Life is too short!
It is so important that we cherish every single day that we have hear on this Earth. We never know when our time is going to come. I think so many times people would be so much better off if they could just open up and communicate more. It is vitally important that we communicate with the ones we love. Tell them you love them even when you think they know and they're tired of hearing you say it.
Life is too short!
Now of course there is some inspiration behind me writing a blog like this. Last week this time I was counting down the days until my week long vacation in New Jersey. As we were headed to Jersey early Saturday morning, I received a phone call from my brother-in-law saying that my Father had been rushed to the hospital. He had a stroke, and they would call us back with more information as soon as the doctor told them something. The entire remainder of the trip my sister phone rang off the hook as my older sister called her to give us more updates. After being in New Jersey for 2 full days, we decided to come back home. This morning around 6a.m. I had the opportunity to see my Father, and he did not look good. With the educational background that I have in a health and fitness related field I understand a little more what is going on inside the body when someone has a stroke or when someone has bleeding on the brain; so I knew from the start that it was not good. However, I know that God can do all things but fail. Now just Friday I talked to my Father and we had a normal conversation (no panic or stress in his voice) and now I'm praying for my Father's life.Life is too short!12 years ago in August I was getting ready to return to school to start the 6th grade. It was the Saturday before school started and my Mother was taking me on last minute school shopping. She suffered from asthma, and usually her inhaler would do the trick. However, this night was not a normal night. She was not feeling well at all. We woke up Sunday morning, like any other Sunday morning; but for the first time in my life (that I can remember) my Mother did not feel well enough to make it to Sunday school and service. When we returned home to my Mother and Brother who stayed with her she did not look well. She prayed up until the last sentence that came out of her mouth, and I will never forget the last words I heard her speak... "Lord, I'm ready" Now, in my eyes I saw my Mother living as long as I, but that Sunday afternoon I realized...
Life is too short!
The whole purpose of this blog is to give you a microscopic view of my emotions to help you understand that you can never say never, and that you must take advantage of every moment that God blesses you with on this Earth. Always figure out how you can do something good for someone else. Remember to tell those close to you that you love them, because one day you may never get that opportunity again. Always remember to pray for those you love and especially for those you hate or despise.
Life is too short!

Life is like Nike, Just Do It (written June 18 2008)

Hello all,
This is my first blog on here, and in it I'll just write about a motto that I've started to apply to things in my life. My occupation is a personal trainer, so a lot of what I'll blog about is health and fitness. However, this particular blog applies to life in general. Sometimes in life we make things harder than what they really are; for some of us we try to find every excuse in the book. However, if you always try to start with small steps you can achieve anything.
-It's like Nike, Just Do It!-
If you're wanting to get in better shape and begin to eat right, you don't have to take drastic measures. Everyone has to start somewhere. So stop getting mad when you can't get that front park at Wal-Mart. Park in the back and get your butt out and walk. Stop taking the elevator and escalator all the time; take the steps. Stop drinking so much soft drinks, artificial flavored juices, etc. Drink more water, believe me it helps. Cut back on fast foods, whole milks, cheeses, breads, fatty meats(i.e. most red meat especially fried) start preparing more food at home and pack your lunches when you head out. Stick to more lean meats(i.e. turkey, chicken breast, fish) if it runs, swims or move around all day is better than having a piece of cow or pig...think about it they sit around all day and either eat grass or slop!
-It's like Nike, Just Do It!-
I've learned to even watch my finances more, my girlfriend always tells me cut out any unnecessary spending. If you can just start to take out 25-50 dollars out of each pay check, over time that adds up. Sometimes we complain about not having money, then we turn around and eat out all week and buy unnecessary things.
-It's like Nike, Just Do It!
The last thing is about your religious walk. We as Christians try to make this walk so hard. I listen to the Steve Harvey Morning show almost everyday. He comes on from 5a.m.-9a.m. CST on weekdays. Every morning he starts out with inspiration for the day and a gospel song. He always says, "No one is perfect, but if you can just keep God close and in your corner that's half the battle" I totally agree, sometimes we try to make things so hard we miss the blessings that God is trying to give us on a daily basis. So, just keep him close. Be thankful in everything. Now this one is sometimes harder than it should be, but try to start and end every day by just talking to him for a while and thanking him for what he has done, what he is doing, and what he is going to do.
-It's like Nike, Just Do It!-
In closing, you make think well what qualifies Mike to write something like this. The answer is nothing, this blog is as much to me as it is inspiration to at least one person who will read it. As I told him, my older brother Darrell James inspired me to start blogging. If you get a chance try to add him on myspace. He only has two blogs right now, but I would advise you to check it out. Like he said, stay tune and remember my name. I am coming, I am destined for greatness, and no one can stop me! God Bless You All!
-It's like Nike, Just Do It!-
p.s. please excuse any spelling or grammatical errors, College made me dumb...lol(I like saying that, but I'm only joking)