Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Seek First

Matthew 6:33 (ESV) “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
     We use our education and our experience and even our hunches to decide the best courses of action… only to discover that no amount of forethought or critical thinking can outweigh the power of seeking God’s guidance in any situation. No matter what the toil, trial or challenge, God’s way is always the best way. No need to try all the other alternatives before we finally give it to God. Our God is a God of FIRSTs. We offer first fruits…. We pass down special blessings to our first born, so why should we bring our concerns to God last? We try to fix things ourselves, over and over again; then finally we ask a close friend for their advice. When that seems like a dead end, we ask other friends and family and eventually we even seek outside advice from self-proclaimed experts, counselors, and even self-help books.
     Don’t’ let intellect overrun intelligence. Our brains tell us we can figure it out given enough time, but our hearts know that it is best to go to God FIRST and ask for his guidance. We are not to be so concerned about things; but focus on the main thing. . . the progression of God’s Kingdom here on Earth.
     Everything we need God has already provided. Much like how our parents would shop early for our Christmas gifts and hide them in the house until the appropriate time to reveal them; God has great answers to prayers and wonderful gifts to bestow, often right within reach, but out of view. He is more concerned with the proper timing than he is with our impatience. As we continue to seek his righteousness, he moves certain prayer answers or gifts from the attic to the top of a hall closet and eventually when we are ready we will find it sitting right on the kitchen table fully accessible - and we will be able to say that the Lord has prepared a table before us, even in the presence of our enemies, our impatience and our struggling faith.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a power-packed GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

In Everything Give Thanks



1 Corinthians 15:57 - "But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."
     Yesterday I dropped my dad and brother off at the airport for their departure following a fabulous Thanksgiving weekend visit. From the moment they arrived on Wednesday until our final hugs and good-byes it was a jubilant time of reflection, memory-making and laughter. My dad is 94 and still quite a character. I pray that as we age we keep our ability to see the lighter side of life.
     We can ward off some of the advances of life as our physical bodies age, but there are some things that just change as we grow older. Our eyesight, hearing and muscle strength diminish and our gait is not as swift, but we are blessed if we can honor God through our ability to maintain relationships. We shared fun times as we dined together and reminisced about everything from serious discussions of relatives that have gone to glory or silly things like hurriedly leaving home with mis-matched socks. 

     I pray you had a meaningful Thanksgiving, but even if it did not pan out the way that you hoped or envisioned; it is still a memory and in that alone we must give God thanks. All things do somehow work together. So whether you had to work, were alone or maybe even had a dinner that burned or sparked an argument; let the lessons from the day turn you to seek deeper meaning through a more intimate time in prayer.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a power-packed GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Monday, November 28, 2016

Stay Encouraged

 2 Corinthians 5:21. -“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
  The fast pace and the ups and downs of life can bear upon us with such intensity that we can become discouraged and disenchanted.  If we lose focus we might start to doubt our abilities, our direction or even our purpose.  We can become disappointed with ourselves, our progress and our performance.  But the Word of God tells us to not let our hearts be troubled and that we are the righteousness of God.       
   While the world around us may succumb to the bad news that bombards us daily, we must stay resolved that God sees us, not as failures, but as his righteousness.  Mistakes happen; we may make poor decisions and often experience setbacks, but that does not change the love that God has for us.  Jesus’ sacrifice at Calvary where he took on our sins, proved his love for us and with the acceptance of that love we radiate that righteousness.  So walk today with your head up and your shoulders back.  No need to be embarrassed if things are not running 100% on target right now. Keep trying. God is your greatest cheerleader.
Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Don't be distracted; stay focused on your ourpose! Be blessed!
Dr. JoAnn

Friday, November 25, 2016

Joy of Patience

James 1:2-4: (TLB) -“[Dear brothers, is your life full of difficulties and temptations? Then be happy, for when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow, and don’t try to squirm out of your problems. For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete.”
     As I reflected over the words of the text I could not help but chuckle to myself that in looking back over the hardships and frustrations I have experienced over the past few years; I must by now have the strength of Sampson. It seems whimsical but indeed the essence of these words from the brother of Jesus is so true. When we realize that all things are orchestrated and under the control of a loving and powerful God; it is not hard to fathom that some of his methodologies to help us grow and progress will involve stretching us in uncomfortable areas. These may on the surface appear to range from the pesky little reoccurring annoyances that teach us patience to the more tragically burdening difficulties that produce perseverance and fortitude.
     Regardless of what you are going through, REJOICE and again I say REJOICE. It may not be easy to look for the bright side, but do it…it is worth it. Think on the hardships of Job, it wasn’t until he stopped pondering about his situation and gave prayers over his annoying friends that he received the full recompense for his loss. So the next time life’s difficulties bear down upon you do not think about ‘why me?’, but glorify God that he trusts you enough, like Job, to be the purveyor of His will.

     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a patient GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Have a great weekend. See you on Monday! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Thursday, November 24, 2016

Happy Thanksgiving - Share the 'Welcome'

    Good morning and Happy Thanksgiving! God’s blessings and grace to you and yours as family and friends gather today to share special memories and create new ones. As caring people we don’t really need a special day set aside to give thanks or to remember our God and those who have been good to us; but it is always a great occasion to eat some great food. Many people are out working today in soup kitchens and in homeless shelters to cook and deliver meals to those who otherwise might be not have a balanced meal or be in the company of people who wish them well. 
     Many die-hard shoppers are getting geared up to prepare for Gray Thursday and Black Friday and all the other colorful days leading up to Christmas as they shop for special gifts for orphaned children, elderly shut-ins and poor families that are struggling to stay on the radar. This time of year puts many of us in the giving spirit and we are willing to donate blankets and coats to help warm chilled bodies and dolls and bikes to children who can only dream of what it is like to have new toys. Today I want to share with you my thoughts about something many of us might take for granted – Sharing the Welcome!
    There are some of us who have a really hard time allowing others to help them. We have no problem extending ourselves to go the extra mile to make sure that needs we see unfulfilled get taken care of and often without any fanfare or need for acknowledgement. We have no problem being a blessing to others; but when the shoe is on the other foot we block the blessings that others could gain from helping us by not allowing them to be able to say “you are welcome!”
    It is a good feeling to know that someone’s life has been made better because of something we have done; but when we cause them to forfeit their opportunity to have that same good feeling it borders on even being a bit selfish. There could be many reasons why many of us shy away from allowing others to help us when we enjoy so much the benefits of giving. What are your reasons? Is it pride? Could it be that we just never really thought about the hurt we could cause when we turn down the big or little things that others try to give. This is especially true when the person is trying to give a service that comes from their heart. Stop for a moment and think about it. To you it might be that you are saying - “Oh.. that is ok, you don’t have to do that… I appreciate it but no.” The words seem as if you are merely turning down a good gesture, but to the person who is offering themselves to you, it could come across as a personal rejection. Allow them to be able to hear someone say “Thank you” and then they can say - “You are welcome!”
    Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT WELCOMING day. Be blessed. Happy Thanksgiving! I love and appreciate my blog family! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Dr. JoAnn

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

In the Balance

Proverbs 11:31 – “If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!”
     Although I grew up in Northwest Indiana, I am by no means a fan of cold weather; but last night I bundled up and went ice skating with my son, his girlfriend and my granddaughter in downtown Atlanta’s Centennial Park. It was exhilarating to strap bulky boots with razor sharp blades onto my feet and purposefully thrust myself onto slick frozen water. It has been decades since I had been ice skating (I’m a 4-wheel roller skater girl) but I had a ball nonetheless.
     In ice skating, just like in our own Christian walk, the key to remaining upright and on course is to maintain good balance. As I went around the rink I encountered some seasoned veteran skaters who were performing graceful pirouettes and I also came upon novices who were clinging to the side rails as if their lives depended upon it. It was up to me to decide how I would handle each person whose path somehow intersected mine. If I moved too fast or too slow; if I moved right when I should have moved left – we could all end up in a pile on the floor. My main concern was to avoid distractions, stay out of the way to show boaters, be careful around the timid and keep my balance. In life also as we approach others we may or may not know how they will react to us, so we have to be prepared to maintain our own steady state. Ask God to give you discernment about every situation you encounter and he will provide the insights to allow you to maintain your balance and not get pushed off course or end up taking a fall.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a great day. Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

It Is Your Time

Joshua 3:7- "And the Lord said to Joshua, “Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses."
     After the death of Moses, Joshua took on the role of leading the nation of Israel into the Promised Land. He was faithful in following and serving Moses and capable and courageous for the task, but God knew that was not enough. In order to be truly effective the people needed to "see" that Joshua did not just inherit the position because he was next in line, but because it was his God-ordained and appointed time to be in the lead position. Joshua did not ask God for favor nor did he command the people to listen to, obey and respect him. He simply kept doing what he had been assigned to do and God made the royal decree and backed it up with signs and wonders.
     Now is your time. You have been faithful, on point, serving and doing God's will; often without recognition, reward or even compensation. You might have even taken some hits because you chose to stand on the side of righteousness; but alas your time is now. God is working right now to exalt you so that those who might doubt will have no recourse. This is your day, your week, your month, your year... this is your time. All that you have done is not in vain; but don't try to force your hand; let God work on your behalf, if you want to be frustrated put your hands in it -if you want it fixed let God handle it. Trust God - you have sacrificed and been faithful - it's your time.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Monday, November 21, 2016

Great Works

This is a repost from last year that I thought was worth revisiting….enjoy!

Psalm 111:2-4  (ESV) – “Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them. Full of splendor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever. He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and merciful.”
 As we enter this week of Thanksgiving festivities I know that we all have examples somewhere swimming around in our consciousness of how good God has been to us.  If we just take a brief moment and allow some of those examples to float to the surface we would relive the awesome splendor of knowing how great God is.  Of all of the eggs and sperms to ever evolve, the one distinct pairing that constituted you had to find themselves in a sea of turbidity.  That’s not chance – that is God.  Of all of the people on the planet, on every head, whether now bald or not, every hair shaft has been counted. That’s not circumstantial– that is God.  Of all the shades of the rainbow, the color of your eyes, the tint of your hair and the hue of your skin are not by genetic probability - you are wonderfully and fearfully made. That is God.
     As a biologist who loves to study the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of life; it gives me great joy when I come upon a mystery that baffles my non-believing colleagues.  Where physicists like to ponder, I love to praise.  Where scientists like to speculate, I love to shout. Where chemists like to clamor, I love to clap and cheer.   They have now given a name to the space between the infinitesimally small subatomic particles that make up the interior of atoms.  I call it God’s playground. No matter how far out in space we search or how deep within the interior of the earth we plunge, we will never come to the edge of the awesomeness of God.

  Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a power-packed GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose.  Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Friday, November 18, 2016

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 GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Have a great weekend; see you on Monday. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Thursday, November 17, 2016

Make Me Clap My Hands!

Psalm 95:1-2 “O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation! Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to Him with songs of praise!”
     Ever drive down the street and pull up next to someone who is really enjoying the beat of whatever is playing on their radio or phone? Their head is bobbing, hands drumming on the steering wheel and if they are really into it, they may throw a shoulder or two into a ‘bounce’ move that would make Dancing with the Stars contestants shake with envy.
     Most of us have no problem singing some popular songs to the top of our lungs while we are in the isolation of our cars or our showers; and I invite you to break loose today and sing some praise songs a little louder than usual. Take a moment and lift your voice in praise. God does not care about the quality of your tone or whether you remember all the lyrics or even have the rhythm just right. He just loves to hear his children vocalize our joy through song. So while you are “Riding down the freeway” or kicking it at home; stop for a few moments and tune out the world and turn up the volume of your voice and belt out a few numbers to God. If you can’t remember all of the words to a popular gospel or spiritual or hymn…make up your own song. Thank God for his love for you. Thank and praise him for your life and the wonderful people who love and respect you. Praise him for just being him and the Creator of all that is or ever will be. Just sing… Just sing.. Just sing!
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a great day. Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose Be blessed. La la, la, la Dr. JoAnn

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Key to the Road Map

John 16:13(ISV) “ Yet when the Spirit of Truth comes, he’ll guide you into all truth. He won’t speak on his own accord, but he’ll speak whatever he hears and will declare to you the things that are to come.”
     In these days of global access and GPS, we often do not have a need to actually look at and try to decipher a printed map. One of the main objectives of studying a map is to find locations, estimate distances and to chart routes from point A to point B. The map itself is usually a bird’s eye view to the terrain with different signs and symbols of varying shapes and sizes.
     Somewhere on every map, usually tucked away in a corner is what is known as the ‘key’. These are the instructions which help us decipher the map and discover its hidden secrets. The maps hold the true data but without the ‘key’ we might not be able to easily unlock the treasures that it holds.
     Many of the lessons that Jesus teaches us have hidden meanings that the world can never figure out no matter how hard they try. But Jesus provides assistance to his followers by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Jesus tells us that he is the Way, the Truth and the Life and that through our association with him we are able to have access to the Father. Through the glorification of Jesus by his death, burial and resurrection, we have been granted the presence of the Holy Spirit which lives within us as our present help and comfort. When you are feeling uncertain and not sure of what your journey will entail; do not stay in confusion- that is not what God wants. Use the resource that is as close as a whisper, a thought or a bent knee.
     Ask the Holy Spirit to direct you to all truth about your concerns and he will be sure to speak that which comes directly from God on your behalf. He will show you Jesus in all of his glory in whatever situation you are facing. The Holy Spirit is your ‘key’ to using the roadmap (lessons of the life of Jesus) to have victory in moving from point A to point B. Unlike GPS units which can malfunction in certain ‘dead zones’ or weather conditions; the map that Jesus provides and the keys that the Holy Spirit gives are sure each and every time. Ask for the guidance you need and faithfully follow the clues you are given to reach your ultimate goal in Jesus.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed. Dr. JoAnn

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

Blink, but keep focused!

Psalm 1:1-2 - "Oh, the joys of those who do not follow evil men’s advice, who do not hang around with sinners, scoffing at the things of God. But they delight in doing everything God wants them to, and day and night are always meditating on his laws and thinking about ways to follow him more closely."
     Just when you think your actions have been in vain or that you might have wasted time pursuing something that has not yielded the harvest you expected; someone will try to pour into your spirit another (usually ungodly) way to get the results you want. Or they might malign your actions or even the fact that you are patiently waiting on God's timing. Don't be disturbed. Don't move. Don't lose focus! God will not be mocked and his word will not come back unaccomplished.
     In a few weeks it will be time for my semi-annual visual field eye exam where I had to focus on a point of light and then make some designations. Well if you have ever intensely focused on something soon your eyes will strain and the very object you are intently staring at will start to blur. To make sure I kept my eye on the object of interest and closely follow the instructions given; I have to blink. That clears away the particulate matter and moisture that collects on my eye surface and allows me to once again clearly see what I need to view.
     As we intensely focus on what God has designed for us to do; when we have gotten into a committed prayer ritual; when we have developed a healthier lifestyle; when we have done anything that furthers the work of the kingdom and we are intimately focused upon it the devil will try to throw particulate matter at us. Meddlesome, unprovoked, unnecessary and unwarranted "stuff" will just float your way and blur your gaze. Don't look to the left or to the right. Don't stop doing what you know is the right thing to do -stay on point. Just blink! When dust gets in your eye you blink. Think of it as your eyelids quickly kneeling in prayer! You do the same- don't listen to the babble that you are a failure or follow some 'get-rich-quick-scheme, or believe that he/she didn't mean to hit you (again); trust God and look for ways to follow him even closer. Do mini (quick) prayers (blinks) all day long and watch God work things out in a GREAT way for you.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a great day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed Dr. JoAnn

Monday, November 14, 2016

Manufacturer Use Only

Psalm 51:9 “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right[ spirit within me.”
     Whether it was a computer unit, high-end technical instrument or simple flat screen television, we have all owned or seen a piece of technology that had inscribed on the back - “Do Not Open – No Consumer Parts Inside”. In essence the warning was telling us to not tamper with the merchandise and that if anything went wrong there were not parts that could be replaced by the consumer. Only the manufacturer could handle any of the workings on the inside. 

      Well this is true with us also; we often see areas in our lives that need fixing and we strive to make the changes ourselves.  I am reminded of my own tendency to try to fix the ailments when in all honesty I need to re-evaluate and note that there are some things (and usually it is most things) that need mending or repair could only be addressed by the manufacturer, our creator God. Even simple things like being kinder or less judgmental or more patient all require a rewiring by the God who knows us better on the inside than we think we know ourselves on the outside. We may be able to make temporary fixes on some physical and emotional traits but to make lasting changes only God has the keys to unlock the old and instate the new.
     Let me encourage you today to not worry about what is wrong or how it can be fixed, simply take your concerns to God in prayer. Just like the high-tech equipment, don’t be surprised if God has to turn your life over or upside down in order to get to the area of need. It might mean shutting you down for a while or even taking you out of the environment where the problems may exist; but rest assured you may be displaced or a little topsy-turvy, but you are never out of the Master’s hand.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed. Dr. JoAnn

Friday, November 11, 2016

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 GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Have a good weekend. See you Monday. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Thursday, November 10, 2016

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 and magnitudes. 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; its up to us to make it a GREAT day. Don't be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed. Dr. JoAnn


Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Hope!

Job 11:18 - "And you will have confidence, because there is hope; you will be protected and take your rest in safety."
     Well the elections are over and the votes have been tallied.  Some might protest the outcomes and others are still celebrating.  Even in the midst of victory when we are bombarded with negative thoughts and constant examples of how things can go wrong, it isn't difficult to understand why many may lose confidence and courage in the many processes of life.  
     Regardless of the outcome we know that our hope in God is surely worth it.  One of the greatest motivators for sustaining confidence is to re-evaluate where you are and giving thanks for where you are going.  Planning for the future requires hope.  Hope reminds us that there is something worth working toward; fighting through; and praying for.  Hope tells us to keep moving even when our bodies are weary, our minds are baffled and our souls are discouraged. Hope keeps us striving, even though circumstances keep changing.  Hope dictates a pattern of courage that is unrivaled  Hope is the glue that holds our dreams together as we connect the puzzle pieces that will form the picture of our destiny.  Never let hope slip away, diminish or fade.  Keep encouraging yourself.  Read your Bible daily for inspiration.  Pray continually and guard your heart and mind against anything that wants you to maintain the 'status quo'. 

     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day!  Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed!  Dr. JoAnn

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

God Is On The Throne

God Is on the Throne
Daniel 10:19 - “Do not be afraid, you who are highly esteemed,” he said. “Peace! Be strong now; be strong. When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, “Speak, my lord, since you have given me strength.” 
Well I don’t know about many of you, but I am so glad this day has finally arrived.  I have grown weary of endless slanderous ads; impractical commercials and the constant barrage of news stories of one-upmanship that has been the driving force of the current election cycle.  Today the final balloting will take place and along with many amendments that are on the ticket; the next President of the United Sates will be selected. 
I voted on the second day that early voting was an option so today is merely a waiting period for the inevitable.  Like a difficult pregnancy; the birthing may be traumatic but one can’t stay pregnant forever; it all must come to some type of end.  Regardless of whether you voted for who you believe is the best thing since sliced bread or thought you only chose the lesser of evils…soon it will be over but more importantly…do not be dismayed and of course do not be afraid of what the future holds.   Someone less than what we might imagine may sit in the oval office, but we know who sits on the THRONE. 
Whether it is Herod or Nebuchadnezzar we have no worries.  We are overcomers and we fear the authority of no man.  Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess. And if those in power forget who is really in charge, they better ask somebody.  Moses can testify about Pharaoh; Elijah can speak about Jezebel and we all know what happened to Saul. 

Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day!  Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Dr. JoAnn

Monday, November 7, 2016

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 innuendos.
     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. Don't be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Friday, November 4, 2016

Faith Endures

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”.
     A popular song decades ago said ‘What a difference a day makes” – well I can say without hesitation - ‘what a difference a week makes”. This past weekend and week stood as a monumental testimony of God’s favor and grace. Last weekend was my college homecoming celebration where I got to reunite with old friends, old flames and even made some new acquaintances. Over the past few months I have anticipated this time as I knew I was going to see people I hadn’t seen in many years. Also this week marked the beginning of a new month and wow – we can all say that time waits for no one. If you blink it will be Valentine’s Day. All of this transitioning points to the foundation of today’s scripture – everything in our lives is undergirded by our walk of faith.
     To God be all praise. As I spoke with former classmates I learned of the various transitions many have had to traverse; the problems they have overcome; the obstacles that have deterred their progress and even the heartaches that have tested their faith. Life presents us all with challenges; but with God there is light at the end of the tunnel and that light is the light of the world – Jesus Christ. We must keep holding on.
     The blessings of faith comes through the gifting of Christ and the love of our God. As today’s scripture says through faith in Christ, we are all being brought into a place of undeserved privilege where we can joyfully look forward to even more of God’s glory. We all get so excited about seeing old friends and reliving great times; but we should get even more pumped about seeing how God is orchestrating new things in our lives… anticipate the best – trust and have faith. Hallelujah!
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it faith-filled GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. See you on Monday. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn


Thursday, November 3, 2016

Be Responsible

Galatians 6:5 (KJV)-“For every man shall bear his own burden.”
     School shootings, police beatings, political sabotage, infidelous 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 GREAT day! Don't be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

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. I know many of us have grown weary of the current presidential campaign just because of all of the knit-picking, name calling and condemning talk. 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 GREAT power-packed day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn


Tuesday, November 1, 2016

Check Yourself!

1 Peter 1:14 -"As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct".
     In raising my sons I was a loving disciplinarian. I set the rules; explained the rules and told of the consequences of breaking the rules. I felt it was unfair to punish a child for a first offense if they might be ignorant of what was expected. After a stern lecture (which I think they hated worse than any discipline) I would remind them that "now I know you understand, so if you do it again you have filled out an application for the punishment".
     Before we gave our hearts to Christ we were spiritually and cognitively ignorant of many of the life sustaining rules God had in place for us. But as we walk with Christ he expects us to mirror his actions, learn from his teachings and grow under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We cannot continue in a faith-based walk with God and continue doing the things we used to do and expect to not get some measure of correction. The devil will make you believe what you are doing is ok...living together without the consecration of marriage; sexing whoever makes you feel good for the night; establishing families based on pregnancies or conveniences rather than on Godly direction; stealing, lying, sabotaging, etc. So while you are "playing house" and 'loving the one you are with' and eating someone else's lunch out of the staff refrigerator, remember that although God is long suffering, he will not be mocked - you will be reprimanded; not because God hates you... but because God absolutely loves you. God hates sin and like any loving parent he will provide methods for guiding you back to the right ways of living.
     Check yourself ... every day I have to repent from some slippage in my walk with Christ. The more I walk with him the closer I cling to him. He says the way of the righteous is narrow and if you keep skipping along the path, throwing yourself in any direction -to please others or your own desires eventually you will fall off the cliff. It might be difficult to change a 'worldly' decision all of a sudden; but seek God, repent and watch him turn your life around. Be Holy!
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Don’t be distracted; stay focused on your purpose. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn Happy Birthday Arthur and Harrison!!