*New Study Alert* The Gospel of Matthew

"I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11

How are we to know what is pleasing and displeasing to God without studying his word? We have to study the scriptures and seek Him. I thoroughly enjoyed the Proverbs study in December (reading a chapter a day) and received some great feedback from it. Since then, I've been praying about doing another study with a different book. So starting tomorrow, I'll be reading a chapter a day from the book of Matthew. The Gospel of Matthew has been considered to be the most important of the 4 Gospels. I'm excited!

"How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word" Psalm 119:9

Getting tested?

"The night is far gone and the day is almost here. Let us then drop the works and deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." Romans 13:12

Every morning we should be clothing ourselves in truth. Why? Because there's a certain peace that comes from communicating with God first thing. There are many days that I personally get tested about the words I posted that morning! James 1 tells us not to back out of trials, but to pass the tests. I heard someone say, "the retest is always harder." Is your armor on? Happy Thursday! 

*February I'm going to be studying from a chapter in Matthew everyday. Get excited!

Noah Type Faith

"It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by faith." Hebrews 11:7

How many people thought Noah was crazy for building an ark when not a drop of rain had fallen? When God calls us to do something, everyone will not understand. Why? Because family members, "friends", and peers were not given the vision/ instruction that you were. Don't allow naysayers and negative people determine your faith walk with Christ! 

Speaking of preparedness, let's come together to pray for those who are greatly affected by the snow/ice storm. I can't imagine being forced to sleep in schools, department stores, or on the side of the road! Stay warm!

My friend posted this picture of the bread aisle in South Carolina when the forecast called for snow, even though the current temp was 60 degrees! 

Pity Party of One

"Finally, brothers [and sisters], whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things" Philippians 4:8

Yesterday morning, I decided that I was going to have a pity party for one. Just thinking about how annoying it is get up and go to work...in the cold...and miss out on fun stuff (like sleep). Let me tell you, as soon as it started, I was convicted. And I was upset because the party was about to get good! Haha Honestly, how our days unfold depends on our thoughts, words, actions, and perspective. I had to change my attitude. Instead of focusing on a list of negative things, I focused on the positives. This is something that we should do daily. I'll write down good things and reflect on the at the end of the day, week, or month. It can be so easy to let a few negative things ruin our attitude and that ain't nothin but the devil! What are you allowing to consume your thoughts?  Happy Tuesday! 

Lessons from a Tuskegee Airman

"Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." James 4:17 

Have you ever seen a need but not taken action? You knew that you had the ability and desire to help and make a difference, but didn't do it? Surely you weren't sinning intentionally. You may have thought you were unqualified, someone else was better suited, or maybe you felt you didn't have time. But all of those excuses are tricks of the enemy. If God lays it on your heart to do something, that means you're fully equipped to make it happen! Strive for Christlikeness and listen to that small voice that tells you to pick up a fallen article of clothing in a store. Listen to that tug at your spirit that tells you to step out on faith and apply for that job. Position yourself to be used by God. Happy Monday! :) 

Note: Do Not trust everyone to take clear iPhone pictures! Ha

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to hear Colonel Hiram Mann speak and have dinner with him afterwards. He's a member of the 23rd class of Tuskegee Airmen and a World War II veteran. At 92 years old, his mind is so sharp that he didn't use any notes. At dinner he ordered a vodka tonic, maybe that's the secret? (Just kidding...) 

As he spoke, it reminded me of my grandfather, a Marine WWII veteran, and others who broke the color barriers in the military. If they had allowed society to hold them back, they would not be legends that they are now. If they had allowed naysayers to kills their dreams, who knows where our society would be. Similarly, people are waiting on YOU to do what God has placed in your spirit. You too can have a story of effecting change and inspiring others.  

[Another fun fact about the Colonel: He was married for 71.5 years. At 20 years old, he and his wife eloped for $2...which he had to borrow from his mom. LOL]

Our strength vs. God's grace

"How foolish can you be? After starting your Christian lives in the Spirit, why are you now trying to become perfect by your own human effort? Have you experienced so much for nothing? Surely it was not in vain, was it?" Galatians 3:3-4

Accepting Jesus as Lord and savior of our life is an act of faith. But instead of submitting things that are not of Christ to him, we try to change by our own efforts. This is how we become stagnant and struggle with the same things constantly. We need God's grace and direction to love holy lives. What is it that you need to submit to Christ? Your attitude, language, friends, relationships, health, school, or work? You shouldn't be the same after accepting Christ. It's Friday! Have a great weekend :) 

"throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy." Ephesians 4:22-24

Relax!

"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers- most of which are never seen- don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met." Matthew 6:30-33 

This is why I love reading scriptures in different translations. One of my favorites is The Message, which the passage above came from. It's beyond clear and in plain English. There is so much beauty and intricate design in things that we overlook (wildflowers, snowflakes, seashells). God took time to take care of the little things in nature, surely he'll take care of his children! Let's not look like the world who stresses, worries, and panics. Let's look like followers of Christ who have peace that transcends understanding (Philippians 4:7). Happy Thursday!

I took this at La Paz Waterfall gardens in Costa Rica. I seriously love orchids...and pink... and flowers haha

The Mind of Christ

"For, 'Who can know the LORD's thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?' But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ." 1 Corinthians 2:16

How many times have you found yourself telling God what to do? Telling Him about the best job, school, or potential mate for you, without leaving room for His will is pretty ridiculous. Let's not think more highly of ourselves than we should (Romans 12:3). Instead, let's spend time with God daily to get familiar with his voice. Let's seek him for answers and guidance. Let's strive for a heart like His. Are there areas that you need to trust God more? Release them and let God work! Happy Wednesday! :) 

Church attendance: Is it really that important?

"Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another..." Hebrews 10:24-25 

Since I moved to the middle of nowhere, 2.5 months ago, I have developed a new appreciation for the church. I wasn't looking for friends, family, or an social calendar, but that's what I got! How? Simply being faithful in attendance, committed and social. Getting plugged into a body of believers has been such an awesome experience. I even took the  "right hand of fellowship" on Sunday, yeah I'm legit LOL. Church is so much more than a Sunday service. It's the bride of Christ. It's the opportunity to build relationships, learn from one another, grow, and sometimes eat :) So I urge you to get involved (attend Sunday School, volunteer in ministry, speak to new people) and pour into the church as it pours into you. If want to know how to find a church or how to get involved in your current church, let me know. I'd love to help :) Happy Tuesday! 

The Pastor, First Lady, & I after church on Sunday! 

* SN: My parents happened to be in town this weekend too (totally unplanned, so they wanted to commemorate the moment ha!) isn't it funny how God planned that out?*

Lessons from MLK

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Psalm 119:11, we are told to hide God's word in our hearts. On this day and others, I think of the suffering of those who contributed to the civil rights movement. Those who stood firm on the word of God and were still persecuted. Those who loved yet received hate in return. Similarly, the 3 Hebrew boys were persecuted for stepping out on faith and standing up for what they believed in (Daniel 3) How do you react in times of adversity? Are you standing on God's word or crumbling under pressure? What does your lifestyle say about you and your convictions? MLK is just one example of someone who followed the Lord's path for their life and left a legacy behind. What will be your legacy? Happy MLK Day!

Ok, you definitely can't see me, but it's the thought that counts. Right?

MLK Memorial in Washington, D.C. 

How To: Pray

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him." 1 John 5:14-15

Prayer is a powerful tool that is easy to take for granted. Prayer is more than running down a list of things that we want from God. It's a time where we can go humbly to God and reveal that we don't have all the answers and we need him on a daily basis. When we pray continuously (1 Thessalonians 5:17) The Lord works in us and molds us into the people that we were called to be. This weekend, I challenge you to speak with God more. Prayer doesn't have to be super formal all the time. Ask for his guidance in your daily activities. Pray for people you encounter throughout the day. You can even pray about what to eat for dinner tonight. It may sound far-fetched but you'll definitely become more sensitive to Holy Spirit. Happy praying! :)

How To: Quiet Time

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Psalm 119:105

If we want God's word to lead us on a daily basis, we have to know what the Bible says. This is where quiet time comes in. This is a time where distractions are eliminated and quality time is spent with God. This time varies from person to person but I've included some ideas for you to use. I tend to do a combo of this list 1) listen to praise and worship music 2) prayer (for yourself and others) 3) reading the Bible 4) working through a devotional 5) listening to sermons 6) reading biblically based books 7) journaling. In all of those, the goal is to gain a deeper understanding of His word. God can speak to you when you're seeking Him. Can you hear from him if you're constantly surrounded by people, social media, cell phones, and TV? What does your quiet time consist of? Let me know if you have some suggestions to add to the list. Happy Thursday! 

"But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night." Psalm 1:2

How To: Spend Time with God

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness" 2 Timothy 3:16

If your goals include growing in Christ, deepening your relationship with Him, and striving to become more like Him, you have to spend time with Him. In the natural, we don't strengthen relationships by only talking when we need something. It's the same way with God, he's not a magical genie. He wants to talk to us frequently! Reading John 11:35 (Jesus wept) once a year and singing the Johnny Appleseed prayer won't cut it! LOL Seek The Lord for clarity and understanding before you start reading and studying. Set a time that you're able to get quiet before God and listen to Him through His word. You will begin to see positive changes in your life, guaranteed. Happy Wednesday! 

Understanding the Bible

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied." Mathew 5:6

As believers, who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior, we should crave the presence of God.  But honestly, sometimes it can seem like this obscure idea. How do you get to that point of really loving to read a book with thee, thou, and thus in it? First, get a Bible or Bible app that you understand. The Message, NIV, and NLT are my favorites. Next, find a bible study, biblical book, or sermons and work through them. The more you learn about the structure of the Bible and the language, it will be much easier to understand. 

Tips will continue tomorrow! *if you feel this doesn't apply to you, share the info with someone else! We are to be fishers of men!*  Happy Tuesday! 

He knows

"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good." Proverbs 15:3

I love this verse because it shows that God is knowledgable of all that you do. If you're demonstrating good character, working hard behind the scenes, growing spiritually, and doing other positive things, God sees that. Of course you shouldn't do anything for recognition of man (Colossians 3:23), but doesn't it feel amazing to be thanked and spoken highly of? Whether or not that happens in the natural, God thinks highly of you. He knew the flaws and imperfections that you would have and STILL created you! You have a divine purpose. *insert praise break here* ha! Happy Monday! :)

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you" 1 Peter 5:6

"And to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:19

Applying your gifts

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace" 1 Peter 4:10

Now that you have an idea of what your spiritual gifts are, do something with them! Think of ways, big or small of how you can use your gifts and talents to bless someone else. If you're an optimist with a positive attitude, you can call a friend to give them some encouragement. If you're a prayer warrior, construct a prayer list and pray for those people on it. Your spiritual gifts are ingrained in you and should feel like a hassle or inconvenience. After all, they're not for you, they're used to bless others and demonstrate the love of Christ. Have a wonderful weekend! :)

"A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before the great." Proverbs 18:16

Identifying Spiritual Gifts

"For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another." Romans 12:4-5

I talk a lot about walking in the purpose that God has designed especially for you. But what if you have no idea what that is? This is where knowing your spiritual gifts is important. There was a time that I honestly didn't know how I could be involved in church because I wasn't a singer, a preacher, or an usher. That was so far from the truth! The enemy loves when we discount ourselves and our abilities. We all have ways to serve and edify the body of Christ! Here's a quick test that can be used to learn what your gifts are and show you how to apply them! http://www.spiritualgiftstest.com. If you take it let me know :) Happy Thursday

"To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good." 1 Corinthians 12:7

Still waiting...

Since we're on the subject of patience and preparation, there are tons of examples in the Bible. David started out as the scrawny, low man in the totem pole. That time as a shepherd prepared him to overpower Goliath and eventually become king (see 1 Samuel). 

On the other hand, when Moses delivered the Israelites from Egypt, it took them 40 years to get to a location that should have taken 4 days (See Exodus)! The Israelites did not put their trust in God. They were full of doubt and disobedience so they could not fully walk in their destiny. 

Today, we can look at how David waited patiently, developed skills, and sought God in his time of preparation. Or we can model our lives after the Israelites as they left Egypt- griping, complaining, not trusting God, and wasting time. There's a purpose to every city we live in , school we attend, and job we accept. It's up to you to maximize your time in every circumstance. 

Happy Wednesday :)

In a rush?

"And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper" Psalm 1:3 

Moment of transparency: I sometimes fall victim of the comparison game. Not to say that I'm super envious of people and what they have, but it's easy to start to think "ugh it would be so nice to drive a new luxury car" or "that's awesome that this person knows every Bible scripture for every situation" or even "I wish I loved my job as much as they do". When those thoughts come, I immediately pray and remember that preparation is key. Right out of college it's not realistic to expect to live the life of someone who has been in their career for 20 years. We all go through preparation for each season in life. Even Jesus took nearly 30 years to prepare to walk in the full capacity of His calling! Patience is key. Instead of comparing, let's trust that God will direct us to the fulfillment of our purpose. Happy Tuesday! Stay WARM!

Excuses...

"Jesus said, 'No procrastination. No backward looks. You can't put God's kingdom off till tomorrow. Seize the day.'" Luke 9:62 

In Luke 9:43-62, Jesus is preparing the disciples for his ascension back to Heaven, by making his way to Jerusalem. People start asking if they can make the journey with him but they have excuses as to why they can't go right then. In the end he tells them that proclaiming God's word is more important than anything else. 

Have you been putting off submitting your life to Christ because you're young? Have you dragged your feet on doing something God placed inside of you? Are you not spending time with God daily because you're too busy? Let's take a step back and really assess where we are in Christ because we aren't guaranteed tomorrow! 

Happy Monday! 

New Year Resolutions

"May He grant you your heart's desire and fulfill all your plans!" Psalm 20:4

God has made so many promises of prosperity, joy, success, and love to those who love Him. He cares for YOU! Take time to tell God your plans, declare His promises for your life, and be open to His will. Honestly, His plans are so grand that we can't fathom them! Spend time sharing with God just as you do with your friends and family. He wants to hear from you. If you want this year to be amazing, put God first in everything. Happy Friday! :) 

"For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit." Romans 8:5

New Year Blessings

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:18-19

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I pray that you've had a wonderful holiday! If you participated with the Proverbs challenge last month, I hope that you were as blessed by it as I was! In this new year, people are making resolutions and preparing for change. In Christ, we are new creations (Ephesians 4:22-24) and our past sins are thrown into the sea of forgetfulness (Micah 7:18-19). Whatever goals you want to accomplish this year, pray about them, make a plan, and get an accountability partner. You can do it! I am so excited about the awesome things that God is going to do in our lives this year!