We are forgiven

Psalm 32:1 - Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.”
     There is no greater joy like the feeling that comes when we are released from the shadowy grip of sin. When we know that we have transgressed against someone or when we have allowed our sin nature to run rampart and the result of these actions have warranted forgiveness….oh what a relief it is to shake off the burdensome weight when we are forgiven.
    We have all said and done some things that we are not proud of or that we know was a bit out of character. We have opened Pandora’s box of unnecessary comments and flung wide the door of unsolicited opinions. So when these things have occurred and we are blessed to be forgiven for our ‘stepping out of bounds’ – how joyous it is to be forgiven. Don’t delay… allow this final day of November to clear some cobwebs from relationships that could benefit from the language and heart of forgiveness. Be ready to usher in December with a happy heart.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Get Ready for Change

1 Kings 2:11 (NRSV) - 11 The time that David reigned over Israel was forty years; he reigned seven years in Hebron, and thirty-three years in Jerusalem.”
     Today marks our 33 day count down to the end of this year. While David was told as a youth that he would be king, it wasn’t until many years and trials later that he was actually crowned. In today’s scripture we see that his reign was not a continuous, ‘sit-on-the-same-pew” kind of existence. He ruled from one location for a period of time that could have led him to believe that it would be a permanent spot; but his true calling was to govern from Jerusalem. When he made his home-base there; then he ruled for 33 years. You might be in a similar situation where you believe that you are in the ‘comfort zone’ of your existence; but God may have another plan in mind. Even if things are running smoothly and it seems that there is no need for change does not mean that God’s plan does not involve a move. Get your mind ready for the potential of a great move, promotion, or transformation.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Speak Praise

Psalm 34:1 – “ I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”
     We continue this week illuminating ways to stay on point as we enter the advent season. Today’s scripture tells us to keep the praise of God on the tip of our tongues. No matter what is happening around us, we are to continually give God praise for he is worthy. Since God inhabits the praises of his people, then we know that no matter what he will be right in our midst. 
      So, while things may be great or not so good, it really does not matter because we do not praise God through emotion, but in adoration. I know it can be very difficult to keep upbeat when life is beating you down – but consider this… regardless of what is coming at you, God is standing with you. Give him praise and watch as he shoulders the majority of the trial, buffers the hurt and soothes the anxiety. Life and ‘crazy’ stuff is going to happen. Isn’t it wonderful to know that we don’t have to travel this road alone, unprotected or aimlessly. God is with us, he shields us and he guides us. Recite Psalm 34:1 over the situation and keep praising.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

God Harasses Our Hecklers

Psalm 35:1 – “Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me!” (NRSV)     Today marks the thirty-five day countdown to the end of this fast-paced year so I thought this week I would share some familiar scriptural text that illuminate how to go out of this month with a bang and enjoy the festivities that the advent season will bring.
     Our scripture today which is from the 35th Psalm reminds us that we have a conquering Lord. David in his petition to the Lord does not ask for strength to fight or to run up against those who were fighting against him, but rather he petitioned for God to do what God has always said he would do – fight our battles. God tells us that his yoke is easy and his burden is light. That we are to put on our whole armor and the ‘stand’. That he is our shield and buckler. In today’s text we gain courage from the fact that God will contend, fight, battle, attack, oppose and plead our cause with anyone or anything that strives against us. So this week as you are coming back from the ‘high’ time of food and fellowship from the Thanksgiving Holiday be aware that there are forces (within and without) that might rise up to spoil the good mood you want to continue. Don’t surrender or give in to bullying tactics of adversarial forces that just don’t want you to be happy. Recite Psalm 35:1 over the situation and keep pushing.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Giving Thanks

2 Timothy 1:3 - “I always remember you in my prayers day and night. And in these prayers I thank God for you. He is the God my ancestors served, and I have always served him with a clear conscience. “

I am humbled by how our awesome God has guided my life to thread through the lives of so many wonderful people. Thanks be to God and thank you my dear readers for your love, support and encouragement. Enjoy the day and know that you are appreciated!  

Everyday is a good day; it’s up to us to make it a Great day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn 

The Right “Stuff”

Ecclesiastes 3:1 - “There is a right time for everything, and everything on earth will happen at the right time.”

     Yesterday morning I was blessed with an impromptu visit from my goddaughter from California. She was making her way here to do a visit with extended family. Although I had tons of work on my plate and prep work to do for Thanksgiving dinner, I put everything on hold to spend some quality time with her.  It was a wonderful time to stop and relish our relationship. She and her sister are my first godchildren and although we are separated by thousands of miles our bond is deep.

    It was no thought whatsoever for me to put things aside in order to spend time with her. We laughed, we reminisced, we talked  seriously about current issues, we talked about family ties and what the future might hold. The few brief hours that we spent yesterday reminded me of how important it is that even in the mist of all the hustle and bustle do what God did for us.  God is eternal so he literally “made” time for us.  Let’s be sure to not get so caught up in the “stuffing” that we forget the real important “stuff” of life.

Take time to love on someone today.  You will both be richer for it.

Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a great day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Just a Thought!

Isaiah 58:7 – “Share your food with everyone who is hungry; share your home with the poor and homeless. Give clothes to those in need; don’t turn away your relatives.” (CEV)
     I heard some disturbing news yesterday while talking with a friend about the upcoming Thanksgiving Day activities. She informed me that the city of Atlanta is upholding an old ordnance which will require those giving food to the homeless obtain a permit and relegate their activities to a specific area only. Many homeless and poor people will miss out on a traditional Thanksgiving meal because of red tape and gentrification prejudice. The rationale is that this will limit the number of ‘donors’ and the amount of trash that is generated from this sort of distribution. Instead of going where the homeless are and serving their needs; now those who feel impassioned to assist, must set up in designated areas which may or may not be accessible to those most in need. 
      I am sure there are other nuances of this ruling that are not known by us and I am certain that I have received only one side of the issue, but it just seems so tragic that we are so concerned about the trash that is left on the streets more than those who are living on the streets.
No one seems to feel crazed about trash when the college students storm through town at homecoming; or when sporting events generate tons of rubbage; or when impromptu gatherings in the park for ‘movie nite or parades or marathons create mounds of trash. Instead of punishing those who are trying to give why not establish a program where they can contribute large trash bags and use a team of ‘volunteer’ homeless (many who crave jobs) who will serve as clean up crews. The payment for their services could be vouchers for a few good nights of sleep at a climate-controlled shelter. The donors can keep on cooking and distributing; those in need can keep on eating; the city streets could be cleaner and vulnerable people could be off of the street for a little while.….Just a thought…
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Time with God

Hebrews 10:25- “We must not quit meeting together, as some are doing. No, we need to keep on encouraging each other. This becomes more and more important as you see the Day getting closer.”

     I was up early yesterday morning trying to get it together to decide to go to church... not really feeling it ... not Because I did not want to go to church,  but I thought about the tons of work and the soon approaching deadlines that I have and decided to play “hookie” to use those hours to catch up. The past week with all of my phone and technical glitches had thrown me so off-course I needed every second to get work done. 

      I am such a “church chick”  I rationalized that I really didn’t need to go ...over the past 10 days I had been to 2 services, a funeral, a revival meeting and 2 bible studies... my sermon tank was full....so I sat on the side of my bed and believed that I was “good” and didn’t have to go .....that is why I needed to make sure I went....and I did.

     Whenever I don't feel like going but show up is when I thump the devil in the top of his head and push onward because I know my faithfulness is pleasing to God. Worship isn't about how I feel but how grateful I am .. I attended the early morning service and had a great time praising, praying and listening to the Word.  My spirit was so energized that I also stayed for Sunday school and didn’t rush out when everything was over.  I gave God back a portion of his time that he so graciously gives to me. I shared and fellowshipped with like- minded folks and my soul was encouraged. 

I eventually made my way home and God honored my time tithe by opening up my intuition to complete many of my desired assignments in record time. While I still have more things to complete one thing is crystal clear ... no matter what is on your plate; always take the time to worship and give thanks and watch how God will hold the sun in the sky until you accomplish your goals!

     Every day is a good day; it’s up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn 

Don't Hesitate

Samuel 17:48: “ So it was, when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David   hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine.” 

        Once David had analyzed the problem (Goliath); figured out the reward ( riches, honor and a beautiful woman); and came up with a battle plan (5 smooth stones and a slingshot), he did not hesitate to confront the issue head on.  Goliath made light of his young adversary and mockingly walked slowly toward him as he taunted David with curses.  This did not sway David in the least.  He knew his objective and he ran into his destiny.  Today is the last day of the first month of the new year and we can already note  how quickly time is flying by. Do not let opportunities to slay the giant, pressing issues in your life pass by.  Time waits for no one. It keeps marching on whether we are prepared for the future or not.  

         Let’s not waste precious time procrastinating and hesitating under the guise that we are thoroughly analyzing the problem.  While it is beneficial, just like David, to have a battle plan in place.  It is never advantageous to repetitiously rehearse and never carry out the real act.  David knew that time was of the essence and that God’s protection and grace were upon him at that very hour.  God does not do for one what he is not willing to do for others.  Whatever is on your heart.  Fill out that application; make that phone call; shut down that repressive relationship; start the ball rolling to open your own business; learn to sew; stop smoking; join a fitness group…..just do it!!!    

         My college friends and I loved to play Bid Whist and one of our favorite taunts was to tell a player who was slow to act…”study long...study wrong”.  In essence,  take a good look, sum up the situation, map out your strategy and play your hand,  don’t hesitate.  Strike while the iron is hot.  Go for it.  

Every day is a good day, it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed!  Rev. Dr. JoAnn  

Recognize the True Source

Acts 16:17-18– “17 She started following Paul and the rest of us around. She kept shouting, “These men are servants of the Most High God! They are telling you how you can be saved!” 18 She continued doing this for many days. This bothered Paul, so he turned and said to the spirit, “By the power of Jesus Christ, I command you to come out of her!” Immediately, the spirit came out.”
     This passage comes from a very familiar bible text recalling the interaction between Paul, Silas and a young girl possessed with the ability to tell the future. The ability to see and announce the future is relegated to those who are gifted with prophesy from God; the unrighteous use these gifts to fool the masses and set them up for destruction. She was possessed by an evil spirit who caused her to appear to be helpful and doing the ‘right thing’. This young girl was the servant (possession) of men who used her abilities to make money. For days the young girl followed Paul and Silas making proclamations; that although they were true; they were not coming from a righteous source. When Paul had enough, he turned and rebuked the spirit in the name of Jesus and it had no choice but to leave her.
     When the devil sees that you are on point about your walk with God and doing his work, he will send wolves disguised in sheep’s clothing to be in your midst. They may appear to be harmless and even helpful, but their ultimate goal is your destruction. Some of the smiling faces and helpful agents around you who seem to possess good news for you may not have the true GOOD NEWS (the gospel) in them at all. They know the right words to use; they get close enough to you to learn of your needs and challenges and then they stroke you with enough icing to make you believe that their cake is good; but it is poison.
      Paul and Silas heard this young girl, under the influence of an evil spirit, say all matter of factual things about their ministry; but they did not fall for the flattery. Be aware of how the devil will use those closest to you to do his dirty work and even they might believe that what they are doing is good. If you read the text carefully you find that Paul did not speak against the young girl; nor did he chastise her; but he forcibly spoke directly to the evil that was attached to her. When God gives insight about the true actions of people around you; don’t get mad at them; they are only being used to try to sway your journey. Many of them; just like the young girl; may not have control of their own lives; they may be under the rule of past frustrations, hurts and disappointments. They become willing candidates to hurt others because they have been hurt. Recognize the true source and call it out. When you speak up and protect God’s calling on your life he will honor you by dismissing evil from your presence.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Time Stands Still - (Remix)

Joshua 10:13 (GNT) –“The sun stood still and the moon did not move until the nation had conquered its enemies. This is written in the Book of Jashar. The sun stood still in the middle of the sky and did not go down for a whole day.”
      Do you have some unfinished business that you feel you might not be able to complete because time and resources are not on your side? Could one more hour of study possibly increase your scoring potential? Would an additional week make the difference between a mediocre and a good product? Can an additional month give you more time to raise the funds you need? Would another year make your business truly successful? We often try to negotiate with time, but time waits for no one…or does it?
     Joshua and his troops saw that their battle was requiring more daylight so Joshua spoke to the sun and commanded the daylight to remain as he and his troops fought on. God wants your days to be filled with successful ventures and for your life to be a reflection of the good and grace that he provides. Remember it is never too late for God. Things are never out of the control of God’s influence. When Joshua spoke into his destiny, God answered and responded with a resounding ‘yes’ - and the sun remained in position. Speak power into your situation. Speak with authority for what you need and want. The universe is just waiting to respond and give you what you need. Things are being held up in the heavens and just require you to speak up to manifest them into this physical world. God has already answered the prayers that you need more time to carry out a mission or that you need the resources or people to be in place to carry out your mission. All that is needed from you is to believe and receive.
    Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Spiritual Understanding

Colossians 1:9 – “Since the day we heard these things about you, we have continued praying for you. This is what we pray: that God will make you completely sure of what he wants by giving you all the wisdom and spiritual understanding you need.”

     This past week and throughout the weekend I was inundated with multiple assignments and ‘things’ that needed to be attended to, participated in or just looked after.  Whether I was transporting friends, attending services, shopping for loved ones, answering distress calls or just standing in the gap as a prayer partner – these past days have proven to be quite exhilarating.  While my physical body was often fatigued from the skipped meals and lack of sleep, my mind and spirit soared to greater heights as I found myself progressing forward in the ministerial work God is laying out before me.

     I am sensing the spiritual understanding that today’s scripture speaks about.  I give God praise for his faithfulness and I offer thanks to you my supportive readers.  I know your prayers avail much because I feel them guiding me to newly revealed truths.  Thank you for praying for me, my ministry and my greater understanding of the “path”.  I pray for your uplifted countenance and for God’s plan and purpose for your life to become clearer and more resolute.  As we pray for one another, God honors our supplication by granting wisdom to conquer all that presents itself as obstacles or challenges.  And as a great friend says  - “And so it is”!

      Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day!  Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Tell Your Face - Revisit

Exodus 34:35 (ESV)- “ the people of Israel would see the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face was shining. And Moses would put the veil over his face again, until he went in to speak with him.
     When I ask someone how they feel or how things are going and their answer and facial expression do not match, I often tell them to “tell your face” how you feel because it appears it does not know. When our actions and our words do not match it is confusing to our subconscious which runs on commands. If we keep telling ourselves that things are good yet we scowl, frown and grimace at every turn in the road; our body language will override our consciousness and implant deep-seeded reactions.
     It is great to practice what you preach. If you say that you feel well; make sure you match that with a smile. If you profess to be ‘blessed and highly favored’; then align that with bright eyes and an un-furrowed brow. God tells us when we are fasting to not look desperate or hungry; so the opposite is also true; when you are doing fun activities and feeling on top of the world- be sure to tell your face.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Have an awesome weekend. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Leading Lady

Judges 4:4 – “Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time.”
         Those of us in the Metro-Atlanta area have been bombarded over the past few months with campaign propaganda, smear campaigns and just plain old fashioned rhetoric over election platforms and promises. We know each candidate wanted to put their best foot forward; but it seemed as if the only way they could do that was to try to trip others. Now that the madness for the most part has been settled at the polls, now the real battle begins.
       The mayoral race has come down to a December run-off between two women vying for the leadership role for the city. Whether one, the other or neither were your person of choice or if you don’t live within a 1000 miles of Hotlanta, we are all affected by this soon to be decided outcome. In this globally connected world that we live in, the issues of one certainly do affect the livelihood of others.
     Today’s scripture tells about the prophet Deborah who became a prominent judge for Israel. Considering the time in which she lived, many may be astonished to learn of her role and the history that was laid out because of her actions. As a strong advocate for justice and the courage that surpassed many of the men under her rule, Deborah spearheaded a God-ordained attack against Israel’s oppressors. The ensuing victory lead to a forty year reign of peace.
     We do not  know the outcome of the upcoming mayoral run-off between these two women but to those who may scoff because they believe this job is too much for a woman to handle – Atlanta has had a previous woman mayor and the new selectee will prove to meet the challenges head on. Let’s look not at gender, but at her ability to lead.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Keep Love First

Daniel 6:22 -"My God sent his angel and shut the lions' mouths, and they have not harmed me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no harm.”
      Life can be vicious; people can set traps for us; rules can be unfair and even in innocence we can get caught up and thrown to the lions. Daniel was the victim of one of the most historically famous cases of haters orchestrating a set-up. Jealousy, envy, insecurity, ignorance, low self esteem and just being plain mean are all potential motivators for haters to stop handling their business and start messing in yours. Don't be surprised if you get hit from out of "nowhere" with an attack that could throw you for a loop.                                                                                                                                                   But DON'T get thrown off your game! Keep love in your heart. Most haters will never attack you right out; they try to weaken your resolve and cause you to cave in, then throw you to the lions. They will gossip, hurt your feelings, stretch the truth to its outer limits, bring up old hash and anything to shake your resolve.        Do like Daniel and keep focused on your Godly purpose. Keep your heart pure. No one is perfect; but your haters will not allow you to have faults. It is not written in the bible that Daniel protested or fought back or even put up a struggle when they escorted him to the lion's den. You can't fight organized evil in your own strength- so don't try... just stand with God and let him do the fighting. Keep love first and foremost in your actions. Resist the urge to 'give them a piece of your mind' or to show them they "messed with the wrong one". To your haters it will seem like they got the upper hand and that you are 'weak'.... But they just don't know God will shut the mouths of the destructive forces they thought would undermine you. The lions of isolation, gossip, divorce, debt, abuse, un-/under-employment, and anything that can devour us can be shut down and ineffective. Instead of consuming us, God will use these very things to cushion us as he works out our escape plan and destroys our haters. Stay loving. It is not easy; but each time you do the next trial gets easier until eventually you will do just like Daniel and not even get flustered when you see your haters coming,

Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Leave Some!

Leviticus 19:10 -"It is the same with your grape crop—don’t strip every last piece of fruit from the vines, and don’t pick up the grapes that fall to the ground. Leave them for the poor and for those traveling through, for I am Jehovah your God."
      The blessing of having enough, and even better than that, the blessing of having more than enough carries with it instructions to share with others. God blesses us in many ways. God tells us that when he blesses our bounty, we are not to collect and hoard what he has allowed to increase. Some of our lives overflow in areas that are rather easy to share. If you are blessed to be financially comfortable it might not be taxing to contribute money to charitable causes, If you have talents that can be shared- that is wonderful and many may benefit from your inspirational singing, dancing, speaking, sewing, and artistry, These can be great areas to express altruism; where the giver bestows upon the receiver. Many have and need to be blessed through these kind acts of sharing. But God tells us in this scripture that it is helpful to not bundle up all you have and then dole it out in increments to open hands; but to allow opportunities for those who are able and willing to "work" for the blessing of your overflow.
     In essence God is blessing them through you, not because of you. This system allows the gleaner to appreciate the harvest, have pride in their work, and stops the devil from twisting helpful acts into areas of scorn. It never fails that the devil can turn altruistic gestures into scenarios of "look what I did for you" if we are not careful. The scripture tells us that when we provide opportunities for others to gain, we may never know who they are, their state of being; whether they are passing through our lives or will be regular fixtures of our destinies.
     The main point is that -no relevance is given to who you will help so there can be no prejudice. Help someone by giving them an opportunity to do a good work through you. Don't know what to do or how to proceed? Ask God- he is awesome in providing opportunities for us to be more like him.
    Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed. Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Be Responsible

Galatians 6:5 (KJV)-“For every man shall bear his own burden.”
     Church and school shootings, police beatings, political sabotage, infidelity's destruction of relationships - in the aftermath of so many selfish events two poignant points arise in the future of all who seek justice – Responsibility and Faith. The ways and the means by which we have grown more like Christ has been guided by the measure of faith given to each of us. It is our responsibility to nurture and strengthen that faith to spurn us on to greater heights and deeper depths.
     Each of us must bear the joy and pain that comes with the responsibilities we share. We are our brother’s keeper. We are responsible for the upbringing of all youth, for it does take a village to help them achieve. We are responsible for the health of our community and the comfort of our elders. We are responsible for our attitudes and our behaviors. Just as Christ bore the burdens of a sin-sick world to grant us the opportunity for eternal life; we must fulfill our charge to aid others to help make their lives better. Who are you responsible for; who depends on you to keep your promises? What burdens do you bear that aid those in need? Do not despair if your obligations seem overwhelming? If God has entrusted you to take on these duties, he will provide what you need to complete your tasks. Stand up and complete your responsibilities – your reward will be great.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn
If you live in an area that has an election slated for today – PLEASE GO OUT and VOTE and take someone with you!

T.G.I.F.

Romans 5:2 (NLT) – “Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory”.
     TGIF – “Thank God It’s Friday - We often say it in jest or just because it is something that has been popular to declare. But nevertheless, yes, we are thankful that it is the end of the work week for many or least we have made it from Melancholy Monday, through Hump Day Wednesday and now we are preparing for the weekend. 
        For the most part over the weekend, the hustle and bustle of the daily grind slows down a notch or two. The school buses are off of the streets and delivery trucks move at a minimal so the traffic is better. We get involved in weekend warrior activities to check the boxes on our projects calendars or to stay connected to our yards and workout partners. So let’s not forget to Thank God that – yes – it is Friday and we lived to see it.
      Whatever your plans are for this weekend, remember to include time to honor God through prayer, thanksgiving, service, evangelism and praise. It’s OK to unwind and slow it down a bit, but let’s not put God on the back burner. Find some way to show his love through a kindness to another human being and then spend some time giving thanks and praise in a congregational setting where your spirit can bless others as they bless you also.
       Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Have a pleasant weekend. See you on Monday. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Getting to Know You!

Ephesians 1:17 - “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”
      While in the grocery store checkout line yesterday, I noticed the tabloids that filled the shelves with gossip, innuendo and slander. Each person was telling stories of how they felt betrayed because after the time spent with their partner they realized that they really did not know them at all. Soon came the arguments, distrust, and then finally affairs, break ups and divorces.
      Many of the problems these couples face are due to the fact that they really did not take the time to get to know each other before they became too emotionally involved. Before they understood the idiosyncrasies and nuances that could irritate them, they become intimately tied.
     God is faithful and he desires an intimate relationship with his creation; therefore he takes the time to reveal himself to us in ways that we can grasp and understand. His majesty and glory are demonstrated in the very physical world that we live in. The grandeur of mountain ranges, the beauty of autumn sunsets, the complexity of clouds and the awesome power of a waterfall. His amazing love and grace are demonstrated through us and we can only gain this through his revelation as we spend time with him. No one would consider a friend to be ‘close’ or a BFF if they never spoke, interacted, hung-out or learned what each other liked, disliked or believed. So it is with God; we must spend quality time with him and he will reveal himself to us in marvelous ways.
      Have you spoken to him today? If you have not or even if you have had an extensive time with him in prayer already, as soon as you finish reading this blog give him a shout-out. He is listening and ready to take your relationship to another level.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

No Condemnation

John 3:17 (NIV) - “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
     Finger pointing seems to be the new trend in everything from political debates to sporting events to social media. People want others to be held accountable for their actions; but at the expense of dragging them through the mud, muck and mire of shame and disgrace. Our Heavenly Father does not use condemnation as a tool of chastisement. To get our attention so that we can turn from our foolish ways, the Holy Spirit does not use shame and humiliation. God gently guides and admonishes us for improper behavior in a loving way as a caring father. Then he provide avenues for us to see the error of our ways; make amends for our wrongdoings and get back on track. We therefore must be careful that as we see faults or mistakes done by others we do not use condemning tones, attitudes and words to try to correct them.
     The Body of Christ has often been attacked because non-believers say that many Christians act ‘holier than thou’ about even the smallest infraction. We must not denounce or attack others for shortcomings; as we are all on the same walk. In the same manner, we must not take on a spirit of condemnation when we have not lived as we ought. Do not let the evil one cast burdens of guilt and disapproval upon you for Christ died to set you free. Know that Jesus came into this world that men might be saved. Not by our acts or actions, but because of the gift of salvation through belief in Christ.     If you have acted in a certain manner or participated in an activity that is not in line with the life that God wants you to live, let no man criticize you to the point that you feel that your walk is weak or that you are unworthy of the call on your life. The devil is a liar and Jesus is our Savior. There is no condemnation from Jesus, only love to help you get it right. Repent and walk in the knowledge that God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn