New Year- New You!

2 Corinthians 5:17 (RSV)  - “Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come.”

Every New Year many people embark on grand adventures of change and transition.  They resolve to eat better, lose weight, exercise more, stop smoking and a myriad of other decisions to change their lives or livelihoods.  All of these endeavors are wonderful and steeped in a great idea – the desire to live longer, stronger and healthier lives.  My charge to you and to me this year is to endeavor to not focus so much on trying to change who you are but to find the God –in you and bring that more to the surface. With that type of change we will see remarkable changes in all aspects of our lives. When we work so diligently to try to change ourselves we often get frustrated and what started off as a gung-ho, out-the-gate, no-holds-barred bronco ride soon teeters into a struggle to even remember by mid-February what our resolution was in the first place.

When we seek to walk closer to God and allow the Holy Spirit to reveal the God-head in us, we cannot help but see lasting changes that will overtake and nourish us.  Our newness will be rooted in the will and purpose of God as he reveals himself to and through us and that type of transition is not just a simple change in dress or pants size or the ability to climb a flight of steps without wheezing… that change is an authentic metamorphosis; where we truly become brand new creatures.  Take a chance… go ahead make the diet and exercise adjustments; drop the coins in the piggy bank as you strive to diminish the foul language; buy that extra loud alarm clock and get to places on time for a change – but most of all surrender your life to God and allow him to make the true changes that will make a lasting difference.  Remember, only the things you do for Christ shall last.  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed!  Dr. JoAnn

Fired Up!

Luke 3:16 (RSV) – “John answered them all, “I baptize you with water; but he who is mightier than I is coming, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.”

Last week we celebrated the birth of Jesus and adored him as the coming Savior born to a virgin, in a lowly setting, wrapped in swaddling clothing.  Well guess what?  He is not a suckling babe anymore. He is the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, riding high and looking low.  His hands and feet representing his full payment for our ransom and his blood our purification.  He is the Mighty One of the tribe of Judah and don’t get it twisted he is not alone. He is of the God-head along with our Heavenly Father and the All-Powerful Holy Spirit.  He is the Way, the Truth and the Life.  His life points the way in which we should govern ourselves and our affairs.  His TRUTH is that no man can come to the Father except through relationship with him and he offered his LIFE in order to give us abundant and eternal life and for this we should all be FIRED UP!

            Some believe that the only way we can evidence the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is that we must speak in unknown tongues and exhibit some outward behavior that is extraordinary or capricious to say the least.  It might be true that when the Holy Ghost manifests himself in and on the physical body, people have been known the faint, shout and dance; but do not put the Holy Spirit into an idealistic box what mandates how he should appear. There are times when the Spirit falls so heavy upon me that the only thing I can manage to do is shed tears that continuously stream down my cheeks.  Other times I just start singing, making up my own songs and loving on God through praise. 

Whatever way the Holy Spirit envelopes you - go with the flow.  Catch the fire and keep it going. God is real and he wants you to feel his presence in a personal way.  Don’t compare     your experience with that of others- some who in public try to fake the fire. Don’t be ashamed of how the Holy Spirit might manifest in your life. You surely do not want Jesus to stand shyly before the Father when advocating on your behalf. Invoke the Spirit’s presence in your daily walk and feel his essence all around you. He is already inside just awaiting your invitation.  Remember God never forces, never pushes and never takes hostages; but he does accept all genuine invitations and he always shows up with gifts.  Get Fired Up in the Holy Ghost and enjoy the burn.

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

Push On!

James 5:11-  "Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful."

     While enjoying watching my favorite football team rally to victory on Sunday evening I was reminded that as we wind down and approach the finish line for this year, we must not get weary and give out just ahead of our goal. After injuries, miscalculations,fumbles and setbacks my team was undaunted in its pursuit of victory.   When the opposition tried to catch up and overtake them they responded by staying focused and pushing on. We are to likewise stay our course, defend our faith and push through to the end. 

     As opposition and naysayers mount attacks against us it is imperative that we buckle down; put our shoulder to the grindstone and push on. We are so very close to making a change; making a difference; making the grade; now is not the time to get sidetracked. You are so close to victory you can almost taste it... evil entities, jealous friends, non-supportive family members and even sabotaging co-workers will seem to come out from left field to try and tackle you. Stay in the WORD; suit up in the full armor of God; ignore the distractions and push on.  Push...push...push. Victory is within your grasp! Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Keep the Fire Burning

         After a spirit-filled few days of worship and praise services, holiday celebrations and birthday bashes I am looking forward to taking this "fire" into the new year.. Some people may want things to hurry and get back to "normal".  Some are already taking down their decorations. Now that we have been immersed in the joy of Christmas I want to take a few days and really enjoy the gift of Jesus that we have received.  My praise songs sound more inspirational.  My prayer time feels more uplifting. Even my quiet meditations are more freeing and relaxing.  With all of the build-up leading up to Christmas everything  takes on a heighten sense of expression because this season sparks so many emotions.  

        The fellowship and awe of God's love for us in giving his son was celebrated on one day and then the next our family was jolted with news of the death of a loved one.  My mom passed away ten years ago on the day after Christmas. Although our family was saddened by the loss, we knew that mom, having lived a long and beautiful life, would not want her death to overshadow the revived sense of hope that Christmas ushers in.  So we celebrated her life in grand style and my brother and I carry on that tradition each year.  I encourage all of us to take the joy of Christmas and let it overflow well into the New year!  December 26th is the beginning for celebrating family and community through the principles of Kwanzaa. Prepare your first fruits offerings; feed into the life of a child; honor the sacrifices of those upon whose shoulders we stand and help in an area outside of your usual norm.  Every day is a good day; its up to us to make it a GREAT day!  Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn 

Best Christmas Ever

 A very good friend said something to me yesterday that really sums up the magnificence of this day-she said that "this is the best Christmas ever".  Her sentiment is not based on just reality but on the  proclamation to make "right now" the best hope and vision.   On this very special day focus on the present time -- not worrying about what happened in the past;  not engaging in what the future may bring but enjoying the life that the birth of Jesus has given to us today. As the day progresses you may find that some of the things you want or expected may not happen. Don't let it interrupt your joy of why we truly celebrate Christmas.  Jesus came that we may have life and life more abundantly . That is not to say that everything you desire will be under the tree or that circumstances or people will behave or respond the way you anticipate. Some things may happen that are out of your control and might try to dampen your mood.  Don't let them steal your joy.  The roast is too done; the cake didn't rise, the rice is undercooked, dinner guests are late , the cable goes out and even worse the plumbing gets clogged.... count it all a part of the memories of the day but stay in the realm of praise. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given and the government shall be upon his shoulders.  His name shall be called Wonderful , Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of PEACE.  Enjoy your day and make someone else happy today and see how much happier you will be also. Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day and the BEST Christmas ever!! Be blessed! MERRY CHRISTMAS! Dr. JoAnn

The Time Is Near

Luke 2:6 - "And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered."

     As the time for Jesus' arrival drew near Mary's comfort level probably hit an all time low. Perched upon a donkey, whose backs are designed for strength and not a comfortable ride, we can only imagine that this soon-to-be mother was desperate for a place to stop and drop that burden.  I can see Joseph frantically asking and searching for a place to provide relief for his young wife with her groans and moans echoing in the background "hurry, the baby is coming".

     Many of us right now are on the verge of birthing something new in our lives.  It was implanted in us by divine inspiration and we have nurtured and protected our dream, idea or plan for a long time. For whatever reason we might have been shifted from the way we thought our dream would come to reality.  We might have envisioned a coming out grand entrance fit for a king. We might have even planned a red carpet type of debut but somehow life, resources, finances, other people's influences have now downsized our golden trumpets to simple noise makers. Nevertheless the baby is coming. God has ordained that it is now time. You may be experiencing discomfort, irritability, shortness of patience and the need to "push" on.  These are all natural progressions that your "baby" has turned, dropped into the correct position and is ready to be birthed. Prepare yourself - it won't be long.  All that you have gone through is not in vain. There is no need to try to get into a comfortable position, it does not exist. Pregnant women on the verge of labor know that is does not matter- there is no comfort that lasts. Whether sitting or standing, lying or leaning, walking or waddling there is no position that completely relieves the pressure. Restlessness takes over.  So it might also be with you, as your upcoming dream delivery draws nearer; tossing and turning, indecision, even panic.  Calm your spirit; trust the process.

    Mary had done all she could; accepted the divine assignment; eaten properly, exercised and kept her body strong and now things were out of her control - her baby was coming whether she was in the place she had thought appropriate for such an important event or not.  You have done all you can do, now it is the intrinsic nature of the dream to want to escape its confinement. Stop worrying about the "stuff" around your dream and enjoy the magnificence of what is about to happen. Get ready to push! Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Merry Christmas Eve!  Dr. JoAnn

Be Merry

Be Merry

Proverbs 17:22 -"A merry heart does good, like medicine,But a broken spirit dries the bones."

    Time is speeding by; the days are rolling into each other and it seems we can't complete one task before three more are added to the list. The hustle and flow that permeates the atmosphere awakes our senses that soon the celebration of Jesus' birth will be upon us. Enjoy each day to the fullest; don't worry if you haven't completed every thing on your to-do list or had the chance to put every ornament on the tree. Relax if all the special ingredients for grandma's fruitcake haven't fermented yet or the things you shopped for online have not arrived.  Do not let the little issues of preparation spoil the real reason for the season. Focus on making fun memories not perfect events. Enjoy your company even if they make you crazy. Make those special visits even if auntie's house smells like mothballs.and your cousins are always snooping through your suitcase and wearing your clothes. Now is the time to truly focus on family, friends and relationships.  Relax and enjoy the gift of love that surrounds you... even if it comes in the form of a snoring uncle who sleeps at the dinner table.  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed!  Dr. JoAnn

"What's In Your Hand?"

Exodus 14:16-"Raise the walking stick in your hand over the Red Sea, and the sea will split. Then the people can go across on dry land."

   A familiar television commercial asks-"what's in your wallet?" Well I ask you today, what is in your hand?  The Egyptian army was bearing down upon the children of Israel and they were trapped at the edge of the Red Sea.  They cried out in anguish. God instructed Moses to 1) keep moving and 2) to use what was already available at his disposal. With these instructions from God, Moses assured the anxious people that they would see the saving hand of the Lord; and they would not see their Egyptian enemies anymore.

    God gives to us the skills, talents and resources we need to accomplish whatever tasks he places before us. He never gives vision without provision. The way may not be easy, or short-lived or even comfortable; but if what you are doing is in the will of God, you will be victorious and what you need will either be within you or directly within grabbing distance.  Moses took his walking stick and with a simple gesture of raising it, the sea had to yield to the power that God had already incorporated into that "provision".  When you are affronted with an issue, obstacle or whatever "Red Sea" is stopping your progress, don't hesitate or think of giving up... Don't wallow in self pity or wonder "why me?"  Simply recall that the steps of the righteous are ordered by God and if this is the pathway he has on your agenda then surely he has a plan in mind.  

     What's in your hand?  The ability to organize? To cook? To build? To inspire? When trouble raises its ugly head re-evaluate your position, prepare to keep moving forward, check your resources and watch God not only make a way for you, through your own  hand, but he will "kill" whatever is pursuing , distracting, frustrating or threatening you. Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

To the Victor Goes the Spoils

2 Chronicles 20:22 -(ERV) "As they began to sing and to praise God, the Lord set an ambush for the army from Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come to attack Judah. The enemy was defeated."

      This excerpt tells of the favorable outcome when King Jehoshaphat and the Inhabitants of Judah cried unto God because several neighboring armies had joined forces to destroy them. After seeking God's answer through prayer and fasting, they did as they were commanded. God told them that the battle was not theirs and they believed him. At the appointed time the king instructed the priests and selected singers to raise praise to God. As they marched and sang God caused their enemies to ambush and slaughter each other. It took 3 days for them to haul off all of the spoils from the battle they did not have to fight.  

     God will fight your battles also. When enemies, problems, or frustrations mount up in opposition to you; give God praise. Thank him for what he has already done and anticipate the victory yet to come.  We often say when trouble"gangs" up on us; that when it rains, it pours.  As soon as one trouble comes, right on its tail is another woe. Not enough money, not enough time, not the right person, not the right day... bad reports...jealous comrades ....picky in-laws.... unruly children....raggedy car....and the beat goes on!  The wonder of it all is that God inhabits the praises of his people... so lift your voice... wave your hands... stomp your feet and shout out unto the Lord with the highest adoration and awe.  Take your eyes off of the problems that appear to be big  and honor the GOD that we know is Greater that everything!  Praise him up and get ready to collect the spoils.  Everyday is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Have a wonderful weekend; see you on Monday!  Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn 

Don't Be Stingy

Luke 6:38 (KJV) – “[G]ive, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”

When we were kids we might not have known the terms ‘hedonism’, ‘greed’ or ‘avarice’;  but it definitely did not take us long to understand the concept of ‘selfishness’ or ‘ being stingy’. When we had limited resources (just a few pieces of Now and Later or a handful of Nerds) and minimal access to disposable cash (hard to stretch that $1.00 allowance); we found ourselves hoarding.  We place tremendous worth on some things that intrinsically have little or no value. 

Seed is expensive, yet when he buys seed, the farmer does not hold on to it for dear life.  He prepares his field to receive the life giving vessels and when the sowing process begins, the farmer does not hoard the seed, no matter how expensive it might be.  He lavishly throws the seed into furrows in the rich soil because he knows that each seed has the potential to produce a yield far greater than his investment.  As he gives to the land freely, soon the seeds will take root, grown, blossom and bear fruit.  If he sows 5 seeds and only one grows to become an apple tree; that tree will more than abundantly give him a greater return than what he invested.  One apple will have more than 5 seeds in it; and surely that tree will bear more than one small solitary apple. 

We must be willing to give freely and with a good heart and spirit.  God promises that if we do this, our return will be not only ‘good’, which means we will be pleased with the initial harvest but then he sweetens the deal by saying we will gather even more to the point that it will spill over.  When you give, whether it is your tithe, sacrificial offering, love offering, benevolent offering; offering of your time, talents and skills be sure to do so with the ‘measure’ that you want to see come back at you again.  If we are stingy and unwilling to share or if we do share but complain about having to do so…then the measure of our return will be limited, scattered and issued under duress and contention.  And don't worry if you only have a small amount to share.  When God urges you to give, then do it with a pure heart.  Think about the lad with the fishes and loaves whose lunch served more than 5,000 with scraps left over.  When you place your gift in God’s hands he will make it more than enough.  You will be blessed; those around you will be blessed and God will be glorified.  There surely can be no greater return on your investment.  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day.  Be blessed!  Dr. JoAnn. 

Live A Pleasing Life!

Luke 1:30- "The angel said to her, “Don’t be afraid, Mary, because God is very pleased with you."

     When the angel of God appeared to Mary with the good news that she had been selected above all women to bear the savior of the world; the heavenly being told her she had been chosen because God was very pleased with her.  Scripture alludes to the fact that although Mary was a young teenager she was devout in her conviction to lead a righteous life. She was betrothed to a good man and remained pure not only in body but in her character.  Many want to acclaim that the "Virgin Mary" was perfect in all of her ways; but the reality of it is that God does not look for perfection (especially since we know he won't find it wrapped in human flesh) but he uses those of us who are willing and then he perfects his will through us.

      Live your life; make good choices; surround yourself with similar like-minded people who want God's will to flourish and set yourself up to be available for God to use in miraculous ways. You don't have to do a lot of restructuring or revamping of your outlook on things, just keep your eyes on Christ and follow his example.  Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance and watch your life align itself in a way which makes you a viable and valuable soldier in the army of God. You do the possible- God will do the impossible.

      God wants us to be willing vessels for him; to not only follow his directives but to be anxious and zealous in our obedience.  Although Mary did inquire how it would be possible to carry out the role of mother when she was a virgin, she did not tell God "give me a minute, let me think about it."  Because she already lived a virtuous life,she did not have to jump through hoops or make a 180 degree turn to fall in line and prepare to carry within her the "the Word" made flesh!  Stay ready.... You never know the plans God has for you.  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Not Your Job!

2 Samuel 6:6-7 – “⁶ And when they came to the threshing floor of Nacon, Uzzah put out his hand to the ark of God and took hold of it, for the oxen stumbled. ⁷ And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Uzzah, and God struck him down there because of his error, and he died there beside the ark of God.”

     This scripture is taken from the accounting of what happened when one particular man took on a responsibility that was not his and unfortunately suffered dire consequences because of it.  As King David was having the Ark of the Covenant moved to Jerusalem he made a few administrative mistakes and one of his servants unfortunately had to pay the price.

 We have all experienced bosses or supervisors who have made decisions that others had to suffer for when all they were doing was trying to complete a task.  David had commanded for the Ark to be removed from Baale-judah and taken to Jerusalem on a new cart pulled by oxen.  That was his first mistake.  God had given specific instructions as to whom could carry the ark and how it was to be carried.  Only the tribe of Levi was to handle the Ark and it was not to rest on an ox cart but to be carried on the shoulders of the priests.  David and his fighting men were celebrating, dancing, chanting, singing and playing instruments.  David’s second mistake was that he did not give the Ark, which represented God’s presence, the reverence that it deserved.  He was celebrating more about what the Ark stood for in transferring the importance of Jerusalem now being the religious and political capital than he gave reverence to God’s providence.  

     Sad to say, David’s servant Uzzah became a tragic victim of this string of inconsistencies.  The oxen pulling the cart stumbled causing the Ark of the Covenant to shift.  Fearing that it would be cast to the ground, Uzzah did as probably anyone would have done out of a quick reaction; he put out his hand to catch the Ark and keep it from falling.  God’s command was that only the priestly tribe could handle the Ark and even then they had to move it by securing poles through the rings that were fashioned on each side.  It might seem harsh but God struck Uzzah done immediately and killed him for his actions.  The death of Uzzah was a reminder of the power of God and the importance of following his laws. 
      Someone may command, order, coax, trick, cajole, tease, dare or even ridicule you into doing something that you know is not what God has commanded for you to do. Although they were following orders there are many accountants who wish they had not moved a decimal point; teachers who regret changing grades; coaches who showed favoritism and medical professionals who skirted around proper protocol. Take the high road. Always follow the dictates that God puts into your heart.  Follow his directions and even if the outcome might not be favorable in the sight of worldly position or promotion or achievement; you will garner the favor of God through your obedience. Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn.

Rules Rule!

Psalm 19:8 (ERV) -“ The Lord’s laws are right. They make people happy. The Lord’s commands are good. They show people the right way to live.”

Everywhere we turn there are signs telling us what to do or what not to do.  Doors tell us to ‘exit only’ or ‘ no entrance’; street lanes are ‘right turn only’ or ‘no passing zones’; stores tell us ’10 items or less’ or this lane for ‘cash only’ .  ‘ No food or drink allowed’; ‘ use only 40SAE oil’; ‘do not microwave’, ‘ no sitting-no standing-no leaning-no parking-no running-no swimming-no diving- no left turn, no right turn, no nothing’!  We see courtesy signs, warning signs, humorous signs and even signs to tell us what other signs are for; but all in all each sign is to inform us of a particular command or rule that is designed to keep us safe and living in peace with others. 

God’s laws are the framework for all of the civil rules we see in the world around us. Some believe that since we live under ‘grace’ we no longer need to fuss about the rules and regulations that were outlined in the Old Testament.  God’s laws were designed to show us our need for salvation but they are not out-of-date or out of sorts.  We may not need to sacrifice lambs and bulls anymore but we do personal sacrifices when we yield ourselves to the rules and commands of God.  Sometimes the laws seem a bit restrictive, but when we (like Paul proclaimed) are prisoners of Jesus, held captive by his love, we don’t mind following his guidelines and living under his direction.  These rules keep us pure, safe, healthy, guilt-free and in some cases even temporarily free from sin.  When we read the scriptures and learn the lessons that the proverbs, psalms, gospels and epistles provide we garner wisdom that helps us lead productive and Christ – centered lives. Most rules are not designed to hurt but to help - follow them!  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day.  Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Jump Start

2 Kings 13:21c-"But as soon as the body touched Elisha’s bones, the dead man revived and jumped to his feet!"

    So anointed was the body of Elisha that even after he was dead and decayed there was resurrection power within his bones to revive the dead. We should aspire to live a life so on fire for the Lord that when we leave a place or the company of others our essence is able to still impact where we have travelled. Just like sweet perfume or fragrant cologne which leaves its lingering aroma; we should leave the sweetness of our testimony so that others are entreated to find out more about the God we serve. My charge to us for this weekend is to boldly walk in the anointing Jesus' blood has given to us. We were bought with a special price as God ransomed us from destruction. He cleaned us up, made us a new creature, gave us a new song to sing then appointed all of us with a special purpose and destiny. Our purpose is to glorify God and our individual destinies are the assignments we have been given to live for Christ. Find people to share the gospel with this weekend. A simple confession of faith or a brief testimony might be all it will take to leave the aroma of God behind. Just speak the truth and it will be powerful enough to raise the "dead" situations in their lives and give them hope.   Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Have a powerful weekend! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn 

The Tempest

Psalm 107:24-25 (NIV)- “ They saw the works of the Lord, his wonderful deeds in the deep.  For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves.”

      The news tells us that there are storms barreling down on both the eastern and western coastlines of our country.  Emergency protocols are being reviewed, provisions are being stockpiled and people in potentially affected areas are preparing for the onslaught. Some meteorologists have predicted that these storms are the worst on record for more than 50- 100 years and could potentially cause power loses and structural damages in the hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars.  With the potential for devastation always threatening, it is essential for people of faith to remember that all things…yes ALL things… are under the watchful eye and control of God.  Not every bad or problematic condition is of evil invention or the after clause of some returning bad karma.

     As our scripture for today indicates the wonder of God happens in all aspects of life on planet earth.  The same hand that can produce a storm will quiet it. We may not understand why stifling dust storms, blinding blizzards, torrential rains, tsunamis, or the slow moving lava of active volcanoes could be signals of a just and powerful God; but our faith tells us that these occurrences are not times to mourn and complain, but to humble ourselves and draw nearer to God in prayer. Every storm is a call to trust God and rely upon his sovereign grace and perfect will. 

    What storms do you see brewing on your horizon?  What troubles do you see looming just ahead?  If God has given you foresight to see the potential for trouble, use these forewarnings as a time for prayer and quiet reflection.  Don’t’ always ask God why the storm is coming or why you have to go through the storm. Praise him for the fact that he will not allow you to go through the storm unaware or alone. There is a lesson in the storm. There is a blessing in the storm. Some things in your life need a shaking and some loose ‘junk’ needs to be blown away. There might be some things that you really don’t need but you are too attached or even too distant to get rid of; so a storm can provide the right impetus to let you focus on the real importance …life itself. How many times have we seen tornadoes totally decimate an area and the residents more times than not will respond by saying…”we lost everything, but that can be replaced…we are blessed to be alive”. 

    So as the storms are approaching our land from all directions, let us pray for the safety and well-being of our coastal citizens and their families; and at the same time, let us praise our God for in his mercy these storms will bring him glory if we know how to ride it out!  Your own personal storms will bring God glory if you just let go…let God do what he does best…and ride it out!  No murmuring…no complaining….just praying!

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

A New Thing

Lamentations 3:22-23- "We are still alive because the Lord’s faithful love never ends. Every morning he shows it in new ways! You are so very true and loyal!"

     It is time to get out of that rut. Time to shake up that old routine. Time to do ordinary things in a different way. Time to try something new.  Each day God gives us a bounty of new mercy to approach each dawning with hope and expectation. Each new day is a chance to have a clean slate to walk closer to him and develop a renewed refreshing in him. Each morning brings new opportunities and challenges to tackle. As we approach each new option we should do it will fervor, zeal and the expectancy for victory. No soldier yells the battle cry, storms off to the battlefield believing they are going to lose. The situation may seem bleak but they are revved up and pumped up to conquer.  

     Today find just one thing you can do differently and reset yourself. Drive to work a different way, take a little extra time so traffic won't frustrate you so you can enjoy the scenery.  Instead of doing the same thing for lunch...cut your eating time in half and spent the other half playing a game on your phone or computer or reading the comics anything to bring laughter to your soul. Today find a fun word and see how many times you can sneak it into conversation. Just do something new.  Our God is a Creative Force and being made in his image I am sure he loves when we break from the ordinary  and the mundane and exercise the newness of our creative potential. Don't worry how "doing something new" looks....exercise your God-given right to be a peculiar people, a royal priesthood. We are special and should stand out.  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Loose Lips Sink Ships

Proverbs 11:13 –(HCSB) “A gossip goes around revealing a secret, but a trustworthy person keeps a confidence.”

   During the World Wars, before the age of GPS, satellite imagery, 3-D scanning, underwater photography and computer radar detection; when battleships and submarines used simple listening devices to figure out the locations of enemies; the decree given when danger was perceived was for the crew to go into radio silence. They would cut the engines and everyone would cease all unnecessary movement.  Talking was replaced with hand signals because they knew that ‘loose lips’ could cause their location to be detected and the possible sinking of their ship.

      Unnecessary talking can be extrapolated to also include the unneeded and unwarranted banter of gossip. If what we say does not edify, glorify, magnify or rectify a situation then chances are what we have to say never really needs to be said.  There is a place of course for whimsical chatter often referred to as ‘girl talk’ or ‘barber shop heckling’; but when the words that we share reveal secrets that should not be disclosed; or expose truths that are not ours to bear witness to; then we are no longer involved in the art of conversation, but in the jaws of rumor and innuendoes.

     Spreading gossip or even just talking to be heard can cause problems not only for the poor victims but also for us.  It can tarnish our reputations and damage the trust that others place in us.  If we open and spew out the details of what others have told to us in confidence; we might escalate a situation to a fever pitch and cause anger and resentment when the source of the leak is found. As the young generation now says…’snitches get stitches’.

      Be careful also to not share too much of your own personal information with a ‘motor mouth’ friend.  Fast talkers, who seem gregarious and really spirited, might be masked rumor-mills in hiding. When you talk to someone who openly tells you everything about themselves or others; chances are if they can’t be discerning about their own affairs, they surely will not keep yours either. God gave us two stereophonic ears but only one mouth.  Listen more, speak less.  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day.  Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Patience Under Fire

James 1:3-4- "You know that when your faith is tested, you learn to be patient in suffering. If you let that patience work in you, the end result will be good. You will be mature and complete. You will be all that God wants you to be."

       In our fast paced world it is not hard to understand that our patience can and will be tried and tested on a daily  basis. We often find ourselves in the midst of long lines; whether it is traffic on the freeway, at the store check out or even while out trying to get a bite to eat at our favorite restaurant. We join the ranks of others who try to also occupy the limited space available. As Christians it is not only good training for us to practice patience for the sake of keeping our peace,but it is wonderfully beneficial for us because God promises it will be "good". This goodness is not just some fleeting feeling of well being and joy that comes from conquering the difficult situations, it entails much more than that. With each victory of being patient in strangely aggravating situations; with each conquest of staying in control when waiting seems futile; with every kind word we share to calm someone else's frustration while we wait, God's glory builds within us and we magnify his love. 

       1 Corinthians 13:4 tells us that love is PATIENT and love is kind.  As we glorify God through our actions ( or sometimes our patience requires that we do nothing) we exemplify the maturity of our walk with Jesus. Think about how people look who lose their composure in public and yell at waiters or sales clerks out of impatient frustration. Think about how crazy road raging drivers stuck in bumper to bumper traffic look when the lay on their horns blowing louder than Gabriel has ever tooted his trumpet. To the rest of us they seem insane because they have lost their peace. 

       The Hebrew world for peace is Shalom which entails not only a feeling of solace but it also means completeness or wholeness. When we are in the peace of God nothing is lacking!  We know the tests are coming so be prepared to let God fight the battles. If you expect there will be a need to wait take something to occupy your time,,,a book...a friend... If patience is needed to deal with personalities turn them over to God and believe it or not silence can often give you the time you need to stay in control.  yes...counting to ten works.... Sometimes you might need to count to 20! If you feel you need to count to 30 it might be best to simply walk away.  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Let It Go!

Job 8:21 -"So perhaps you might laugh again.Maybe shouts of joy will come from your lips. "

       I read a cute poster yesterday that succinctly and simply stated- "If you want to be happy, let go of what makes you sad".  Oh how simplistic yet commanding those few short words are.  The photo on the poster was of a small girl sitting at the water's edge releasing a helium balloon.  I could only speculate that although the child wanted the ballon at some point and probably was quite happy to hold on to it, now her desire to go swimming made the balloon more of a hindrance than a delight.  Like the balloon in the poster some things may make us happy for a season; they bring us joy and feelings of satisfaction, but the time will come when our needs change. With these changes the things that satisfy and make us happy will also change. What was once a guaranteed smile-maker now might just get in the way.  Like the buoyant helium balloon It may not be that heavy of a burden but if it prevents you from doing and enjoying the next phase of your life,  it might be time to let go of the string and move on.

         What ( or who) are you holding on to that has worn out its significance toward your mental, emotional, and psychological well-being? The object, activity or even person once were fundamental for your sanity and contentment and their inherent value has not changed; only their value to you at this point in time. Let it go. Once the child let go of the balloon it would still maintain all of its qualities and would even soar to higher heights. Who knows? -what or who you turn loose may flourish even more once it is released. You could be a blessing to it or them?  You used to enjoy being the organization's President or your family's -go-to-person, but  now the responsibilities that used to spark and challenge you are becoming oppressive. Let it go and watch your happiness return as you put your energies elsewhere. Tired of business as usual? Let it go! Tired of the familiar? Let it go! Tired of always being on time and having to wait on others? Let it go- don't go at all if it will frustrate you. "If you want to be happy, let go of what makes you sad." It is time to let go of the balloon and go swimming! Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day!  See you Monday! Be blessed, Dr. JoAnn 

Stop Lying!

Hosea 4: 1b-2 – “There is no truth or mercy, and no knowledge of God in the land. Swearing, lying, and killing, and stealing and adultery break out, and bloodshed follows bloodshed."

       This might be foreign to some but to others you might have heard elders say this in your own family - “If you will lie, then you will steal; if you will steal then you will kill – so stop that lying.”  If you haven’t heard it exactly like that I am sure there are some similar phrases floating around out there where our mothers, grandmothers or uncles have caught us in a fib when we were young and scolded us about the potential outcome of our wagging tongue.
        Lie – steal – kill.  With the tension, terror, trauma and turmoil that has followed the non¬-indictment of the police officer in Ferguson, MO., I have noticed the insurgence of how these character qualities can be so interlinked.  We have heard of testimonies that border between near truths to down-right fantasy lying; we have seen footage of rampant pillage where looters give peaceful protesting a bad name as they steal and plunder businesses. We watch as blood stains the streets as brutality hides under disciplinary control.
         God warns us, as he did for ancient Israel, through the prophet Hosea, that simple actions that seem harmless can lead to dire consequences when the devil sees openings to spread his venom. When we open our mouths and say that first mistruth, we have to continue to lie in order to keep it alive.  Truth will live on by itself and never change… for the truth is the truth; but a lie, being built on fabrication will always need support.  Think about it.  When I used to ask youngsters a simple question and the answer I got was long and drawn out with a lot of unnecessary details, usually starting with “what had happened was” – I usually knew about 90% of what I was hearing was a lie.
       Think about the last lie you told.  It wasn't that long ago, so you don’t have to strain.  Did you do it because it was just easier that telling the truth?  Or did you do it because you just felt like not sharing the right answer with the party involved?  Or maybe it is just second nature and lying is just fun.  What might seem like a little white lie can turn into a disastrous situation. Don’t lie at work. Be truthful to your spouse.  If you don’t feel like doing a certain activity, tell your friends; stand up for what is right and just tell the truth. Don’t lie to cover yourself - soon the covers will be snatched off and everything will be revealed.  Jesus is the way, the TRUTH, and the life.  Let’s strive to be more like him.  So today, just be mindful of trying to always tell the truth or at least stay quiet.  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day!.  Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Face Off!

Numbers 6: 26 (KJV)– “The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."

        This scripture is an excerpt from the Priestly Blessing given to the newly developing nation of Israel as they prepared for the consecration of the tabernacle and God’s visitation. In an earlier verse the priest proclaimed that ‘the Lord make his face to shine upon thee”, which referred to his Godly presence. Now this verse is more emphatic and asks that God might turn in a particular way and pay specific attention to those receiving the blessing.  That is my charge for you today.  In our cognitive thinking and from our hearing of sermons, bible study and personal reading we learn that our God is omnipresent-always near; he never leaves nor forsakes. Although our minds know that as a spirit God occupies all of creation, therefore he must be right where we are; sometimes we may feel that we need him to pay particular attention to us specifically. We are part of a royal priesthood; a peculiar nation and we want to feel the specialness of being a ‘stand-out’.

        As an educator I know how important it is to make sure that all the members of my class feel I am concerned about them individually. I make a point to learn my students’ names during the first class meeting and while I lecture I try to get and maintain eye contact with each student to make sure I can read their faces.  This helps me to know if concepts are getting through or whether the ‘porch light is on and no one is home.’  If I get the old deer-in-the-headlights glazed-over glance too often I know I need to revisit a particular point. I am in the room – giving my best to the entire class; but I know the way my students thrive when I take the time to come from behind the lecture podium, walk amongst the seats and talk to them as I catch their eyes.  God is always with us; but ohhh how special it is when we feel that God has us in his bull’s-eye.  When we know that God is not just smiling at us in general; but that he has turned his face to us in particular – oh what a feeling.  Know today that my blessing to and for you is that you know how much God loves you and that he definitely has his eyes on you. His unmerited favor is upon you and his mercy shields you.

     When I present a challenging question to my class I often wait to see how they hash out options for discussion. A little bit of stress is good because it stretches their thinking and makes them reach beyond the mediocre.  I watch their faces as they explore critical thinking techniques.  When I see that the struggle is turning to frustration, then I can opt to either give clues or rephrase the question to help alleviate their desire to give up. Whatever might be trying to trouble you, know that God has his eyes on not only on the situation, but he is reading your face to see how you are handling things and he will act for your greater good.  Sometimes it is necessary to let you wiggle through the discomfort to build character and other times God will restructure things so you don’t give out or give up.  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day.  Be blessed.  Dr. JoAnn

Take A Stand

Titus 2:11-12- "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age".

       This morning I was listening to a talk given by Joyce Meyer and the point of her sermon reflected on forgiveness. While digesting her message the Holy Spirit pointed me toward holiness. I did not primarily see the connection but I want to share what was revealed.  Forgiveness is the pure nature of God because God is love. His prime objective in the sacrifice of Christ was to forgive mankind and restore us to fellowship with God. As we strive to be more Christ-like, we must honestly forgive others and even ourselves.  When we open channels for God to use us to show his grace and glory we invite God to really bathe us in himself.  

         So what does that have to do with today's scripture? As I asked God about my own areas of forgiveness (to forgive others and to be forgiven) he reminded me of a recent incident where temptation had the nerve to raise its ugly head and try to persuade me to act outside of my character; to yield to actions I know are ungodly. Honestly the devil is crafty and he uses all the right tools but I am so glad that being steeped in God's word and prayer I recognize God's voice even through the sly tongue of the adversary.  The more they talked, the more their words turned to babble and I heard my God speak until at last something was said that I knew only God would know.  Something that you know God has purposed in your life- take a stand and trust God- rebuke the slick and the sugar-coated and drill down to the heart of every situation. In your drilling if you don't hit anointed oil- do like Joseph and flee the situation.  Don't worry about hurting people's feelings or looking foolish when you stand on what God tells you to do.  You owe no one an explanation for doing righteousness because in the long run the only one you really stand accountable to is the God that you chose to obey,
           In my prayer time I asked God to forgive me for even entertaining the foolishness for as long as I did before I made a conscious decision to end the madness; but I also asked God to forgive the tempter because their weakness led them to be used.  Sorry Satan you lose.  Now both I and my (former) tempter can walk in grace, the slate is clean and the devil has been given notice. NEXT!!!   Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Do Not Forget

Psalm 103:2 "Bless the Lord, O my soul,and forget not all His benefits.".
          In this season of Thanksgiving we must give God total praise; especially for things we are unaware of or untapped resources.  When we join certain employment ranks there can be basic benefits such as medical. dental or matching retirement plans; but often the 'fun' things come from the fringe benefits.  These benefits (such as paid vacations or company cars) are sometimes the selling point for many workers to join the company.
            We know when we accept Christ as our personal savior we get salvation and the promise of eternal life plus bonuses are also included. These bonus 'fringe' benefits include an abundant life, healing, rebuking of the devourer, peace of mind and broken yokes. God throws in lots of freebies to us because of his abundant love. Psalm 103 tells us to take notice of ALL of the benefits he provides and give him thanks!  Think about things you thought you had lost and they were recovered; near misses of accidents that could have been devastating or finding convenient parking when it is pouring rain. God is so good and worthy of praise for healing broken hearts and curing cancer and saving foreclosed homes. But he is also the God of small yet significant miracles each day. Do Not Forget!  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Relax... Everything Is In Divine Order!