Our Provider - Jehovah Jireh

Genesis 22:13-14 – “13 And Abraham lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold behind him a ram caught in a thicket by his horns: and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered him up for a burnt offering in the stead of his son. 14 And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovah jireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the Lord it shall be seen.”
     God commanded Abraham to sacrifice his son as a means to test his devotion. Abraham relied upon his faith that God would not allow his lineage to stop. All-in-all this biblical story reminds us that God provides for our every need including answers to life’s test that might seem daunting.
     Are you facing a situation where it seems the resources are just not enough or anywhere in reach? Do you feel like you are squeezed between doing what you know you should do and what you think you can afford to do? Has God instructed you to complete a task and it seems more like you are taking a risk? Do not be dismayed; but patiently push onward with what God leads you to do; do not focus on the outcome, just on the process.
     Abraham did not really want to kill his son, but he pushed through the process; took the journey, ascended the mountain, assembled the firewood and even raised the knife. God saw his faith and resolve and provided the sacrificial ram that Abraham would substitute for Isaac. Keep pushing onward with the commands of the Lord and watch as he provides all that you really need. Do not waiver or lose heart. God is our Jehovah jireh, Our Provider!
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed –Rev. Dr. JoAnn

In As Much

Matthew 25: 44-45 – “44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee a hungered, or a thirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.”
    Later today a good friend and I are going on a missionary journey to visit a friend in prison. Regardless of the reason or the rationale behind his incarceration, or any of those imprisoned with him, he is a child of the Most High God and it is our responsibility to keep him encouraged and supported. Christ told his disciples that when they did acts of kindness to those who cannot repay (the least of these) or who do not have the freedom to make certain decisions for themselves (sick or imprisoned) we are acting in accordance to lifting them as if we did it directly for Christ.
     You might not be in a position to go on a sojourn right now or have the time to cook a full meal to give away, but you can pay for the dinner of someone you see struggling to find enough change in their wallet to pay for their meal or take a quick stroll through a local nursing home and speak a few kind words to elderly patrons who are lonely and just need a human touch and voice to soothe them. This weekend I challenge us to do – “In As Much” and watch how your joy will expand.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Have an awesome weekend. See you on Monday. Be blessed – Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Do It Right the First Time

Jonah 3:1(NIV) – “When the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.”
    It took a storm; being thrown overboard; time inside the belly of a fish and finally being vomited out on shore for Jonah to get the picture that when God has a job for you it is best to do it right the first time. Jonah as given a specific assignment and instead of doing as God requested; he took it upon himself to change God’s mind. Needless to say, as the scripture for today proves, he finally came to his senses and when the instructions came to him a second time, he obeyed.
     When God gives you a task to complete; a person to interact with; a destination to visit or even a simple phone call to make – DO IT!. When given a directive from the Creator it is not a chore – it is a privilege. God created everything from nothing and surely can make any task that he requires complete itself without our help; but he trusts us enough to get us involved for our own best interest. Reevaluate something that you know is on your must-do agenda and find a way to prioritize it back to the top of your list.
      Keep God’s business on the forefront. Is it time to offer an apology? Do you need to return something that you have kept too long? Need to talk with someone on the behalf of another? Do you need to request more time to settle an issue? Don’t procrastinate another day. Don’t get swallowed up in the moment and end up in the dark. Let’s not let God have to tell us twice. Any of you faithful readers who are parents know how frustrating it is to have to tell your children more than once to follow your instructions. Let’s strive to do it right the first time.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed!. Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Everything Must Change!

Job 1:12 – (ERV) Lord said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.”
       When God allows testing in our lives we must remember that it is not to discourage or undermine us but to show how much God trusts us for the lessons we endure.  God allowed the devil to test Job’s resolve and resilience. Job was stated to be a righteous man and had to adjust his daily routine in alignment with the test put upon him by the devil. He had an unexpected change come upon him; but it was from an expected place. He knew God was in control of everything. He knew about the wiles of the devil; in his daily prayers he sought protection for himself and his children against anything that might ensnare them. Just like Job, I know my students will adjust to the changes and perform well.
     What things have changed in your agenda that causes you to have to regroup and redirect your normal routine or thinking? Remember that change is inevitable and with change God is right there making sure to meter our plenty of grace and mercy to see you through the transition. Hold on… the ride might be a bit bumpy at first; but God has a way of leveling off the snags; smoothing out the edges and making sure that the changes that bombard our lives draw us closer to him and more resilient in our faith. 
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed. Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Down But Not Out

Acts 13:19-20 – “19 Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. 20 But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.” (NIV)
     The scripture for today highlights quite a few messages about the ministerial journeys of Paul and Barnabas but in particular I want to emphasize that being pushed down does not mean that you are out of the game. When Paul and Barnabas shared the Gospel with the Jewish leaders in Antioch and Iconium, they were not well received; so they turned their message to the Gentiles who hungrily accepted the word and converted to follow Jesus as Lord. This of course angered the Jewish leaders who conspired against Paul and Barnabas and turned the remaining crowd into a death-dealing mob who stoned Paul.
     It appeared that this was the end; or at least they thought so. But the disciples gathered around and Paul got up. Although it is not readily recorded in the text I am sure the in-dwelling Holy Spirit protected him. They assumed him to be dead, but he rose to his feet. He was revived enough that he went back into the city on his own power. He was not carried in on a stretcher or laid across the back of a mule or donkey. The lesson for us and the wonderful part of this is that he didn’t moan and groan and complain about his mistreatment and he didn’t stay in bed a week and go through a deep depression; he did not cower or hide out fearing for his life. The next day he got up early and was back on duty; he left and went to Derbe. There he preached with such fire that he won many new converts.
     We all have assignments, missions, tasks, duties, responsibilities, etc. that bring us more grief it seems than pleasure; but the work that God has entrusted to us must go on no matter what. If Paul can be stoned (nearly) to death, get up and go back to doing the same thing that got him beaten, surely we can keep going to the job (that’s paying us) and deal with the cranky boss, outrageous co-workers, mischievous students or insensitive customers or clients. Yes, we may get our feelings hurt, be embarrassed or even get shut out but no matter what – just because we are down, we are not out. Muster up the faith; remember your steps are ordered by God and he never leaves you so he is there with you through the hardships. He trusts you to complete the work. We might be feeling down, but we are not out… Go get ‘em!
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed – Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Simple Things Matter

Genesis 1:28 – “And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
     Yesterday we officially celebrated Earth Day but every day is truly earth day when we listen to what God tell us through his scripture. He said to mankind that we are to be resourceful and to have dominion over His works. He populated the globe with fish of every kind, beasts of the field, birds of the air and everything that had life. He instructed us to be good stewards over his creation and to be watchful and mindful over the planet that we occupy.
     We always hear about natural disasters such as earthquakes and lightening-generated forest fires and of course torrential rains and flooding. These of course lead to disastrous results for humans and animals on the surface of the planet; but we are not oblivious to the fact that we cause many glitches in the ecosystem by our acts.
     Air pollution from uncontrolled emissions; excessive waste which could be eliminated by recycling; overzealous deforestation and the list goes on and on. Each day we individually impact our planet. You might think that your ‘footprint’ is only a small contribution to the world’s system; however small things to add up and they do matter. Today be mindful of what impact you have on our world. Do not throw things out that can be recycled; do not littler; use products that support efforts to keep our planet free of chemicals which deplete the ozone levels and send a small contribution to support organizations that act as whistle-blowers of big corporations that damage our world and cover-up their actions. . Simple things do matter
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed – Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Protected

John 10:28 (ESV)- “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
     It is a familiar sight – seeing a parent firmly grasping the hand of a child as the child tries to worm their way loose. Either the child is fascinated by something they see and want to run ahead; or they believe they are ‘too big’ to have their hand held and want to walk independently. Regardless of the motive, the parent is not dissuaded. The more the child wrestles for freedom, the tighter the grasp the parent places on their grip. The child may not be aware of what lies ahead; but the knowledgeable parent can see dangers, snares, traps, obstacles and things that the child is too distracted to observe. With a love that shelters concern, the parent is unrelenting in making sure that child does not wiggle free and get into trouble.
     Life will present distractions that may draw our attention and blur our focus of what is best for us and we may wiggle into danger. God keeps us in the palm of his hand and holds on to us when we often want to wiggle free or when enticements want to snatch us from his parental care. Our faithful father will never let go of his grasp and will never let anything snatch us out of his protection. Stop fighting and wiggling. Rest in the protection of God; whatever is pulling you or enticing you away is not for your greater good; stay in the loving grasp of God.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Enjoy the weekend. See you on Monday. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Go On Up Higher

Exodus 19:20 - (ESV) – “ The Lord came down on Mount Sinai, to the top of the mountain. And the Lord called Moses to the top of the mountain, and Moses went up.”
     Well it is Thursday and we have made it over the mid-week climb of ‘hump’ day and looking forward to the fun and relaxation of the weekend. We have made it over the hurdles of many of the agendas of the beginning of the week and some of us (like me grading mounds of paperwork during this week of final exams) have revved it up a notch or two to make the most of these uphill days. Whatever image pops into mind one thing we must never overlook is that while the climb may have its challenges; guess who dwells in the midst of the mountain. God is ubiquitous and is everywhere at the same time; but as the scripture reveals God ‘goes’ and ‘comes’ in his spirit to places where we can interact with him on a personal level. Jesus wrapped himself in human flesh and dwelt among us on Earth; the Holy Spirit encapsulates himself into our being to dwell within us.
     So the next time you struggle with having to do ‘hard’ things or ‘frustrating’ tasks that seem to just be like pushing a boulder uphill; keep in mind who is waiting for you at the summit; cheering for you all along the way; giving you strength to endure; guiding and encouraging your every step and keeping the predators at bay. Keep focused on the uphill climb for you are elevating yourself above the muck and mire below to Go On Up Higher.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Silent Support

Mark 14:61 – “But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?”
     Yesterday I gave my college students their final examination for the spring semester course. I divided the class into groups and when each section was over I briefly went over a few of the questions. While they were in test mode I remained in the room, but aloof to their eye gazes and head scratching.
     Today’s scripture illustrates that ‘silence can often be golden’. God’s handling of some of our best lessons reflects the role that teachers, instructors and exam proctors play while the test is underway. When I started the examination; my students were on their own. As they progressed through their test I remained vigilant yet silent. As we traverse through this life, we will come upon events, people or circumstances that will put us to the test. During these testing times it is not difficult to see why we might feel a bit isolated or alone.
       Just like in a typical classroom, the entire atmosphere changes while we are in test mode. The students enter the room with a sense of urgency and awe. They keep movement and talking to a minimum; turn off or mute their cell phones and listen carefully to the instructions. When we become astute to the ways of life’s tests; we too will change the atmosphere. We should talk less about our problems; shut off communication with distractions and listen to the instructions that the Holy Spirit provides. Like a good teacher, while the students are undergoing testing, God remains ever-present; watchful and silent.
      Don’t be troubled when you are in the midst of a test and you feel a bit isolated or ignored. God is not daydreaming or forgetful. He knows all about our issues; motivations and especially our outcomes. God gives us the opportunity to challenge the ‘status quo” and show him what we have learned. Make him proud. Don’t lose your focus; his quietness is just him silently rooting for you.
      Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Take Your Medicine

Job 5:17-18 (ERV) - “You are fortunate when God corrects you. So don’t complain when God All-Powerful punishes you. God might injure you, but he will bandage those wounds. He might hurt you, but his hands also heal.”
     So you goofed up; said something inappropriate; did something close to insane; found yourself in a predicament that you opened the door and proceeded into without good judgment – now what? Don’t fret about it; don’t try to lie about your involvement or even try to undermine those who uncovered your indiscretion – simply take your medicine. Life is full of lessons that need to be learned and some that must be repeated until we pass. We may not always make the best choices but we can rest assured that God will help us through all situations. 
      We should be thankful for God’s correction and his chastening. Today’s scripture reminds us that even when our actions cause us to have to take a ‘licking’, God’s correction is always tempered with healing and support. When we are wrong, God’s desire is not for us to just stop the improper behavior but for us to get right and get blessed. God’s lessons are great in the long run even if we don’t understand the initial pain of discovery. Roll with it and watch God bring the best out of you and what looks and feels like a bad situation. Take your medicine.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Absent from the Body

I Corinthians 15:55-57 (RSV) - “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
     Last week one of my good friends’ father transitioned to be with the Lord. While we might say that he lost a heroic battle against illness, we might also say that he won a great battle for Christ. Throughout the course of his illness, my friend was not able to visit with his father, but he never lost faith, hope or confidence. All of these are a part of his father’s legacy.
     While it was devastating to be separated from his father during the latter part of his illness and life, the hope of glory in Christ has kept him steadfast in his faith.
     His father is at peace now and the legacy of his life is framed around how he loved God, raised his sons, provided for his family, and loved his wife. I am blessed that I got a chance to meet this wonderful gentleman a few years back and the greatest loss in the whole situation is not that his life on earth is gone but that more people did not get a chance to know him and the privilege of his wisdom and spirit.
     We must let our legacy live on through the love and faith that we show now…let it grow and build so that when we enter into our ‘rest’ others will be blessed by the faith footprint that we leave.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Sticks and Stones

Job 5:21(ERV) - 21 People might say bad things about you with their sharp tongues. But God will protect you. You will not be afraid when bad things happen!”
     In elementary school we used a line that seemed to protect our self image and self esteem whenever bullies or hurtful children would speak unkind words to us: “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” We were taught that taunting words from nasty people should not cause us to rise up in anger but to dismiss them as foolishness. On occasion merely saying those quick words would give us enough courage to walk away from our assailant and go on about our business without any further recourse.
     God tells us in our scripture today that there will always be people along our life’s path whose whole ambition is to taunt, discourage, disagree and distract us from our purpose by their words. Some of these words may be hinged in fact, but distorted to cause pain and other words are just plain lies fabricated to destroy our character and confidence. Don’t listen to foolishness; and even if what they say is true who are they to judge or to broadcast? Those who want to help will bring correction in loving and caring ways; those whose hearts are filled with venom will seek to break you down.
     God reminds us that he is constantly protecting us and that the sharpness of their tongues is no match for his terrible swift sword which is steeped in truth and love. He will protect you – let him. Don’t fight unnecessary battles with loud mouths. There are chatterboxes all around us. Their only mission is to use hurtful words to throw us off course – not gonna happen!!!! Walk, move and live in your authority and ignore the hype
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Have an awesome weekend. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Prayer Agenda

Romans 8:26 - (ESV) – “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”
     Life’s ups and downs, twists and turns can often place us in positions where we don’t know which way to turn. Once we get out of the initial spin of the situations, our heads can be clouded and our outlook distorted; in these circumstances we know prayer works but often we can be uncertain about what to pray. When we see a storm coming, we pray that it will be averted; when we are in the midst of the storm, we pray for it to cease; when the storm persists, we pray to get through it; when the storm is over, we give thanks for survival. Our prayers are many and varied, but all in all our prayers are communications with our God. Our prayers do not inform God of our needs, desires or petitions; he is fully aware of everything at all times. Our prayers are methods for drawing us closer into union, fellowship and relationship with him
     When we feel the yearning to be close to God, his spirit is drawing us near; like a caring parent cradling a child; his love is soothing and in these times we want that closeness but may not know how to approach God, the Holy Spirit does. With petitions that permeate deep into the heart of our concerns, the Holy Spirit goes before God and intercedes on our behalf. Isn’t it wonderful, marvelous and even stupendous that we serve a God who cares about us so much and wants to be in relationship with us so deeply that when we don’t even know how to approach him, he provides an avenue.
     So don’t worry if your own prayers seem jagged, rough around the edges, not seeming to express what you really want to say…the Holy Spirit dwells deep within; knows your heart and says …”Don’t’ worry - I got you and I got this!”
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Love Banishes Fear

1 John 4:18 – “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.”
     Once again we have come upon the middle of another work week. Just ten or so days ago we were recalling the triumph of Christ as he fulfilled his earthly mission on the cross at Calvary. As we are embraced in the season of Pentecost, I remind you faithful readers of the total perfect love that God has for you. All that we are, have, will be or will have is steeped in the love that God has planted deep within us. It is no wonder that we speak of joy that passes all understanding; and love that has no bounds.
     When the work gets tough; the people unreasonable; the traffic unbearable, the resources insufficient - focus on the love that God has for you. It is now that we must look upon the events following Christ’s resurrection to draw inspiration to live more fully and powerfully. This can only be done when we embrace each situation from the standpoint of ‘what would Jesus do’ and approach it from a foundation of love. Love conquers fear. It tramples on the fear we have inside that stifles us from moving ahead and it blocks the fear that others try to put upon us when they themselves are afraid. Let love lead you.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Fore!

Isaiah 12:6 – “Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee.”     In golf, it is customary for a golfer to give a loud warning shout when a ball may hit other players or spectators. It is not unusual to hear the word ‘fore’ being shouted by players or others in the group when the ball is in the air if there is any chance of it striking someone. When these shouts are heard, everyone knows to look up and be aware. Our scripture today tells of the prophet’s dictate to the faithful to shout out about the goodness of God in their midst and to be aware. Just like the potential for the ball of a golfer to land in the midst of those in the area; the power of the Most High God lingers around those of us who believe and this power has the ability to strike us with its authority and grace.     Shout out and let others know that Jesus is a risen and living Savior. His power is evident in the atmosphere that surrounds us. The very air around us is permeated with his love; electrified with his joy; infused with his mercy and saturated with his peace.     Fore! Look up and watch as God’s favor streaks through the air all around you,
     Fore! Look up and watch as God’s plans soars above your circumstances.     Fore! Look up and watch as God’s word changes things on your behalf.     Fore! Look up and get ready to be hit; for the Holy One is in the midst.     God is right in your presence. You are in the very palm of his care. You might not feel the essence of his presence; you might even be feeling a little abandoned or neglected. Don’t let the evil one’s oppression have you looking down and miss the glory sailing all around you. Look up. Hear the shouts. Fore! Fore! Please hear me that God is so near; his very breath keeps you alive. His thoughts for you keep you sane and his care for you admonishes the devourer from your life. Look up and know that God cares for you and he is an ever-present help.     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Set Christ Free

Galatians 2:20 (KJV) - I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
     This past Friday during my First Friday Fellowship ministry meeting God moved me to share with and remind the participants that through our belief in the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ we have been given the authority to walk, move, and live in authority. Today’s scripture reminds us that as true believers of God, we now operate as new creations with Christ living in us. It is the bold spirit of God within us that allows us to walk in power, authority, dignity and truth. When we operate in any other fashion, we are keeping Christ in bondage within. We must set Christ free to move and live through us. It is through our faith that we can operate in wholeness, joy, peace, and temperance. It is through our faith that Christ beams from inside of us to bathe all around us with his love through our actions. 
      Christ will gently knock and quietly speak with authority; we must respond in like manner. Christ does not coerce, bride, cajole or puppeteer us into action. He speaks soothingly to our spirit and we must respond in a fashion that is pleasing to God. Christ gave of himself and only asks that we do the same; give of ourselves. Submit our lives to God wholly and give to our fellowman unselfishly. We must set Christ free to be the best that we can be. I charge us today to find ways to set Christ free… Give your best and anticipate a return and watch Christ live freer in you.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Wizard Warning

Isaiah 8:19 - "The people will say, “Go to the fortunetellers and wizards who mumble and chirp like birds. Ask them what to do.” But I say, “Shouldn’t people go to their God for help? Why go to the dead to get help for the living?”
    With all of the chaos and uncertainty that is prevailing in society today, many are seeking answers and solutions from sources outside of God’s wisdom. Driving down many city streets there are dozens of marquees touting the services of Fortune Tellers and Tarot Card Readers; all promising to be able to deliver inspired, ‘spiritual’ insight into any problem presented. Whether the inquiry is about love, prosperity, career choice, or seeking lottery numbers, the gullible are taken in and cheated because of their desperation to find ways to cope with the uncertainty of life.
     Do not be fooled; tarot cards, tea leaf reading; horoscopes and fortune telling are all sides of the same coin – Not Trusting God. One of the most poignant lessons found in scripture is the fact the God only moves by his timing; not by our whines, complaints, pleads or bargaining; and surely not through the use of agents who operate against his will. Some may believe that it is harmless to pursue such practices; but God is very straight forward in his edits of whom we should seek when we are in need of answers. Why go to the dead (Confucius, Mohammed, Buddha) when we serve a living Lord? Ask the Holy Spirit to direct you to the right sources…then patiently wait on the Lord and be of good courage. Do not be anxious and run ahead of God… be patient and all that you need to know shall be revealed to you.
    Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Have an awesome weekend. Be blessed!. Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Be Kind

 This morning when I awoke this simple phrase has been on my mind… “be kind”. ..so today’s blog is very simple - do a random act of kindness today. It is wonderful to do a random act of kindness toward someone you know, a family member, a friend or work buddy. But today do a random act of kindness for a total stranger.  You may never know the end result of your good deed but watch how your own life will change for the better. 

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

True Vine

John 15: 1-2 - “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch of mine that bears no fruit, he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more.” (RSV)
     Experiencing some hardships that just keep surmounting? Feel like you have gone from the frying pan directly into the fire? Each new level bringing you yet another new devil? Count it all joy! Yes! Joy! Jesus tells us that as long as we are connected to him we have life- for he is the living true vine and we are his strong branches. Our strength is given to us through the renewal of our faith and our following his commands. Jesus promises that our life will be one of richness and abundance. That might not necessarily translate itself into riches, fame and fortune; but the richness embraces a wealth of peace and joy in knowing that we have our sins forgiven, the surety of salvation and promise of eternal life.
      Just as a gardener cuts the stray and weak branches off of a prize rose bush in order to make it strong and bear heartier blooms; so does God prune us to allow our gifts to manifest more readily and with greater promise. For the best results gardeners often prune bushes down to a very low stump. To the untrained eye it might appear as if the plant has been destroyed, but the skillful gardener not only knows when to prune, but with what instruments and how far to cut to allow the bush to thrive. God is the master vinedresser and he knows just when your pruning season is most effective. He also knows which tool (trial, tribulation, adjustment, challenge) to use for the best results. Most of all he knows just how much you can bear and he prunes you to the place of your greatest deliverance. Many joke and say – “that which does not kill you - only makes you stronger”. In a way it is true; but God never intends to kill, hurt, harm or even embarrass us. His intention is always for our greater good and his ultimate glory.
      Each time you believe you are just at your ropes’ end. Remember it is just God pruning you for even better, grander and more productive fruit bearing. So tie a knot on the end of your rope and just hang on!
       Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a power-packed GREAT day! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Timing Is Everything!

Mark 9:9(KJV) – “ And as they came down from the mountain, he charged them that they should tell no man what things they had seen, till the Son of man were risen from the dead.”
     Jesus commanded his disciples to keep to themselves the things he had allowed them to witness until an appropriate time. God resolves many issues for us; opens opportunity doors; shuts distraction windows and places the right people and resources in our paths and in many instances it is best for us to keep quiet until the timing is right. When the angel informed Mary that she would be the mother of our Savior, she pondered all that she was told in her heart. When Abram was instructed about his new future role as father of many nations he did not take out an ad in the local newspaper or post it immediately on FaceBook.
      When God provides new insights for us it is important to consider not only the advances that await but also we must be aware that every listening ear does not have a supportive heart. Everyone who claims to be in your corner may not even be in the same room. It is often said that we must not share our big ideas with small minds. Everyone who wants to hear the ‘whole’ story really might only want to hear enough to distort or disclaim what God is bestowing upon you. Be careful and know that timing is everything. Do not be in a great rush to share all that God promises. In the right timing all things will be revealed. One of my favorite quotes comes from Shakespeare who says-“have more than we show and speak less than we know.”
      Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day!! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Head Up! - Shoulders Back!

Psalm 34:19 (TLB) – “The good man does not escape all troubles—he has them too. But the Lord helps him in each and every one.”     Today’s message is short, sweet and to the point….good people sometimes fail. Do not beat up on yourself when things do not go exactly as you had planned it out in your mind. It’s not a punishment or an unusual case of Karma; it is what it is. No one can escape all of their troubles and avoid conflicts forever. At some point in time we all will fall short and need divine intervention and re-instatement. It is not hard to think back over our lives and delineate areas we thought were ‘sealed with a kiss’; only to discover that at best the event, circumstance or activity was just the precursor to a lesson learned. The scripture for today reminds us that no matter how well we seem to be making it; life might throw us a curve ball and it is best that we prepare to respond and not to react.
     The best means for countering an attack is to ward it off in the first place, avoid all activities that can be used to set us up to fail. But what about daily routines that we cannot avoid? Ask God to guide you into which areas; what people; which circumstances are best suited for the course he has laid out for you to complete. Go about it diligently and if things do go in a different direction, remember that God is always here to assist in any way possible. If God gives the direction you truly will not go wrong; some detours may be necessary but stay the course and your destination will still be in sight.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn