Thursday, January 31, 2019

People Pleasing

Today’s power scripture comes from Galatians 1:10 (NLT)
“Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant.”
    Everyone likes to be appreciated and loved. It is not atypical for someone to desire to be in good standing with family, friends, co-workers and other people in general. None of us can deny that at some point or another it felt good when we heard someone say complimentary things about us because of something we did or accomplished. The warning comes when we do activities or acts of kindness just to get the applause and cheers of the crowd. When we seek to get accolades from man, we soon learn that those cheers are hollow and short-lived. Even Jesus knew what it was like to be loved and adored with shouts of praise at the beginning of the week; only to be spat upon, hit and cursed by week’s end. How quickly cheers of ‘Hosanna’,’ Hosanna’ turned to ‘crucify him’,’ crucify him’.
    We were created to love and glorify God and in doing so our actions may lead others to appreciate our efforts; however that should never be our primary motivation. God looks at our hearts and judges our incentives. Today focus on why you do certain actions. Study your motivations and evaluate if you do things because you have genuine empathy for the situation or is it just routine, mundane and what others expect you to do as a people pleaser. If helping others is not deeply rooted in God’s grace and mercy the Holy Spirit will reveal this to you and will guide you in how to turn from being a people pleaser to a man or woman after God’s own heart.
    Every day is a good day it is up to us to make it a GREAT power-filled day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Favor Isn't Fair!

Psalm 90:17 (NIV ) - “May the favor (beauty) of the Lord our God rest on us;establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.”
     Favor isn’t’ fair but it sure is fun. We all know the great sense of wonder that overwhelms us when we know we are standing under the shower of God’s favor. When opportunities arise out of nowhere; when people make us the recipients of random acts of kindness; when we find money in unexpected places or when needed items just happen to be on sale. Some may say that these are coincidences and that serendipity is at play when it appears that the cards have just fallen in the right place. But those of us who know that life is not by chance, but that our steps are so ordered and that God is always making provision for us; we know that it is not dumb luck. 
      We know that God’s favor falls upon us and we are appreciative. So the next time some ‘things’ just seem to fall into place or when you ‘lucked up’ on a good thing… don’t be fooled. Know that God’s favor and grace are upon his children and that he wants the best for us; even if that might be something as simple as a close parking space becoming available in the pouring rain. Give God Thanks!.
      Every day is a good day, it is up to us to make it a GREAT! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Tuesday, January 29, 2019

Be About God's Business


Proverbs 19:3 -“Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.
     Are you sitting on a ground-breaking new concept for a business or know a better way to organize and get things done? Are you working to make ends meet but not really satisfied with what you do? Do you have a longing to stop working for someone else and do your ’own thing’? Or maybe you are already in business but not experiencing the success or joy that ought to match your level of hard work? If any of these describe your present state of existence then it is time for you to stop dreaming about what it could be like to be a successful entrepreneur and be about God’s business. 
     Whatever your idea or concept, give it to God and trust him wholly. He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will and establish you in ways you could never imagine. Success God’s way is inevitable and long-term. 
 When you try to make things happen, even good things will not be sustained if they are outside of the will of God for your life. Brilliant ideas, careful planning and hard work will avail some progress but if you want to see the windows of heaven open to pour out unlimited blessings then it is time to align your thoughts with him. Take that innovative plan off of the back burner; pull that great idea off the top shelf; revamp that dusty business plan and take them to the Master in prayer.
     Every day is a good day, it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn


Monday, January 28, 2019

Why Not You?

1 Samuel 16:10-11 (New Living Translation) - “In the same way all seven of Jesse’s sons were presented to Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen any of these.” 11 Then Samuel asked, “Are these all the sons you have? There is still the youngest,” Jesse replied. “But he’s out in the fields watching the sheep and goats.”
     Not Jesse, nor his other sons, not even Samuel would have guessed that the person the Lord was selecting to be the next king would be the least of the family. David was the youngest and the most easily forgotten and overlooked. When Samuel first arrived to ‘interview’ Jesse’s family, David was not even invited to be a part of the celebration not to mention to be included in the running. When have you felt that you were the least likely candidate to be selected? Have you not attempted to even try because you felt you were not worthy or that your credentials were not impressive enough? Maybe you felt you did not have the right education or training or that your experience did not measure up. Like David maybe others have overlooked you because they felt you were insignificant… too young… too immature…to unseasoned…to rough around the edges. But don’t be fooled. God does not look at the same attributes that man deems to be important. God looks at the heart.
     If you feel inspired to do something…do it. That urging is the influence of the Holy Spirit to get you up and moving forward. He knows your abilities more so than you can ever imagine. Remember right now in our present state, God is here but at the same time he is also existing in our future. He knows what we are capable of becoming. So don’t’ let the naysayers of today stop you from launching out on the great future that is ahead for you. Don’t worry if they start the party without you. Just like in David’s case, they can do nothing until the honored guest arrives. And that is you. Why not you?
       Every day is a good day it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Friday, January 25, 2019

Do It With Zeal!

Ezra 7:23 – “Whatever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be done with zeal for the house of the God of heaven, or wrath will come upon the realm of the king and his heirs.”     As we wind down the week we are all thinking about ways to relax and rejuvenate. It might have been an ultra-busy time for you or it could a week of ‘business-as-usual; but whatever the course of the week has been do not let your enthusiasm and energy fire go too low as you approach your weekend activities. Usually we spend time with family and friends; tend to household chores and visit our places of worship over the weekend. We should give as much energy as possible to these areas as we give to our workplace and school activities. Be as zealous with our significant others, children and church members as we are with our bosses, clients and instructors. We need to give our best efforts to make sure they are supported, happy and appreciated and in return we too shall be blessed. We cannot pour perfume on others without a little getting on us too. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the needed ‘zeal’ to stay in the game and let others know how important they are to you.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Have a fabulous weekend. See you on Monday. Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn

Thursday, January 24, 2019

The Joy of Patience


        James 1:2-4: “[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 reflect over the words of the text I could not help but chuckle to myself that in looking back over the hardships and frustrations many endure with layoffs, under-employment, furloughs and the government shut-down of the past month.  We have all experienced troubled times and probably can testify in accordance with today’s scripture that by now we must have the strength of Sampson. It seems whimsical but indeed these words from the brother of Jesus are 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 power-packed patient day!   Be blessed Rev. Dr.  JoAnn

Wednesday, January 23, 2019

Do Something!

Matthew 7:7 – “Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you.”
     We have all heard sermons, read devotions and probably done personal bible study about this scripture. The key to the understanding of this verse is that it is an ‘action’ text. Asking, searching and knocking all require movement and action on our part. We cannot sit back, pray, hope and wait; thinking that things will just fall into place because we are good and faithful. The scripture reminds us that there is action needed to see the fruition of things we want to see come true.
     We can sit around and look pitiful or we can ask for help. We can wait for opportunity to call our names or we can hunt it down and tackle it. Whatever outcome is desired, some action is needed. Don’t live your life as the victim of circumstance; allowing life to just happen to you and then claiming it was all a part of God’s will. Stop lying on God and start going after all that he has provided. Do something and watch manifestations unfold.
     Every day is a good day it is up to us to make it a GREAT Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Tuesday, January 22, 2019

Get Organized!


1 Corinthians 14:40- “Let all things be done decently and in order.”
     With the promise of unrelenting rain and cold weather, I designated this past weekend for getting my office in order. I cleaned out file cabinets, shredded unnecessary documents, arranged office supplies and started setting up a new accessing system. It was tedious but the reward will come in the near future when it will be so much easier to file, access and distribute paperwork.
     Our scripture today reminds us that in ‘all’ things we must have a diligent sense of completing all tasks in a proper manner. Take some time to reorganize and revamp old systems that might be out of date and might not work so well. Check out new technologies that might make keeping up with your records more proficient. If clutter is a problem, there are websites specifically designed to help debunk the unnecessary. Find a way to work smarter and not harder so you can concentrate on the great new things that God has ordained for your 2019 journey.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to a make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn


Monday, January 21, 2019

Kingly Wisdom

Psalm 2:10 – “Now therefore, O kings, be wise; be warned, O rulers of the earth.”
     As we celebrate the life and legacy of civil rights leader, Martin Luther King, Jr., it is imperative that we honor the God who guided his steps and set him on the pathway of global recognition. Around the world people are familiar with the image and works of Dr. King and the more I learn of his life the more committed I am to serve. There are many stories of options Dr. King exercised that left him without the benefit of much of what he had earned. He would often give back or refuge stipends given for his preaching or public speaking. He did not even utilize the monetary gain from earning the Noble Peace Prize
     We too can learn to share beyond basic measure. Today we celebrate the King legacy by not using the holiday as a day ‘off’ but as a day “on”. Find someone who could use your assistance and make yourself available to help. Volunteer your services at a shelter, food bank, community clean-up project or a nursing home. We should be ‘on’ point to assist as needs arise. Use this day as a way to truly love God through service to mankind in remembrance of one of God’s faithful servants, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed and a blessing! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Friday, January 18, 2019

Awkward Surrender


Jeremiah 38:17 – “Then Jeremiah said to King Zedekiah, “The Lord God All-Powerful is the God of Israel. This is what he says, ‘If you surrender to the officials of the king of Babylon, your life will be saved, and Jerusalem will not be burned down. And you and your family will live.”
     Jeremiah was warning the people of Jerusalem that if they stayed they would perish, but if they went with the leading of God they would be saved. It seemed strange for them to give up their home, their stronghold, their familiar. To surrender – oh no! Yes, it appeared as if surrender was the end of the game, but what they did not realize was that sometimes we must have a temporary setback in order to have a future come back. Those that listened and fought their own feelings of abandonment found out that Jeremiah was telling the truth and that they were saved.
     There are instances in our lives when we just feel we have the right answer and we push ahead trying to make that solution a reality. Then God tells us something to the contrary and it seems like following that directive is as if we are giving up everything. It seems awkward to surrender; but what we must realize is that God knows the end of the story and is giving us a chance to rewrite the plot in our favor.
     Surrender to God, even when it seems uncomfortable, uncanny or unclear. God has your ‘salvation’ in mind and wants the best for you. Surrendering may involve pruning, pride destruction, relocation of resources or just plain isolation. But whatever it is; as God directs it is for your greater outcome in the end. Lean not to your own understanding but acknowledge God and he shall direct your path. This weekend is a great time to re-think and re-group!
      Every day is a good day; it is up to us to a make it a GREAT day! Have an awesome King Holiday weekend. See you on Monday. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn




Thursday, January 17, 2019

Mind Set - Part 4 - Tell the Tale of the Tail

Exodus 4:4-5 “Then the Lord said to Moses, “Reach out your hand and take it by the tail” (and he reached out his hand and caught it, and it became a rod in his hand), (5) that they may believe that the Lord God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has appeared to you.”
     Looking back at yesterday’s scripture, God instructed Moses to throw his staff to the ground and it became a serpent. In today’s scripture God tells him to pick it up. The odd thing to me about this command is that God tells him to pick it up by the tail. In all of my biological studies and of course the great animal planet shows I love to watch, it always seems that wildlife experts grab biting animals by the head to avoid the possibility to attack and injury. Picking a snake up by the tail gives its strong muscular body the ability to turn its head towards you to afflict pain with its fangs or to wrap itself around and immobilize you.
     This does not seem like a wise move, however if God tells you to do something and it seems out of the ordinary or even suspect…trust him and be obedient – then do not be afraid. As long as God is doing the instructing it will never hurt or harm you. As soon as Moses grabbed the snake, it came under his submission and turned back into a useful tool that Moses had total control to use. As soon as you grab your ‘snake’ it will be under your control. Sometimes you will have to forego the obvious and grab the ‘tiger by the tail’ and subdue it by the faith you have in God’s word. Reach out and take it by the tail. If its tail is exposed to you, then that means it has its back to you and thinks that you are no threat….show it the God that you serve and subdue it. Then when it is all said and done, testify about our God who can use anyone, anything, anywhere and at any time for his Glory!
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to a make it a GREAT day!  Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Mind Set - Part 3 - Twisted Familiar

Exodus 4:3– ““And He said, “Cast it on the ground.” So he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from it.”      Don’t be surprised that God will use something very familiar to you in a different and surprising way. Moses had lived in the Midian desert for over 40 years and had become very familiar with the tools of the shepherd lifestyle. The staff was a main tool used by herdsmen for many purposes. Its design made it useful to guide and prod the sheep, goat and oxen in the direction he desired. Its strength made it useful in defense and support. Its length made it helpful in balance and agility. Many carved designs, pictorial stories and even family histories on the staff that they carried with them everywhere they went.
     Much like our cell phones of today, they have many purposes and we guard them judiciously. For God to instruct Moses to throw his familiar tool to the ground would be contradictory to his nature to always keep his staff at hand. God may instruct you to look at and use some things that you are very familiar with in a different way and it might even seem to be frightful but do not be dismayed.
   If God tells you to do something and it seems out of the ordinary or even suspect…trust him and be obedient – then do not be afraid. No need to run or flee from what it might turn into or become – as long as God is doing the guiding, it will never hurt or harm you. Get ready to watch God use what you have become too comfortable with in a new and provocative way. Be vigilant of the new twist that God will put on the familiar.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to a make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

Mind Set - Part 2

Exodus 4:1 – ““So the Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?”
     As we progress into our plans for 2019 let us be mindful and have a mindset that what we need has already been provided. When Christ said from the cross that ‘it is finished’, of course we know the direct message is of the salvation story; but also it entails that everything set forth for the coming Kingdom has been set in place. This includes our life purposes and how the Holy Spirit directs and guides. We often hear it said that “God does not give vision without provision” and while it has a nice rhyming ring to it; it also righteously encapsulates the oneness and completeness of how God operates. Since God knows the ending before we even begin he knows what to put into us before we ever know what we will need.
     Trust the skills, talents, abilities, knowledge and experience that you have already. While it is important to continue to seek higher levels of achievement, education, skill development and advancement; be cognizant of what you already have ‘in your hand’ and at your disposal.
    What are you good at that people always compliment? What comes so easily and naturally to you that you could do it proficiently in your sleep? What makes you delight in doing it so much that you could do it for free (and many of you already do)? What has God so ingrained in your spirit that you know without a shadow of a doubt – “I can do this!” – well - start now believing - “I have all I need!” No more excuses that you will start ‘as soon as you get more money saved; or take one more certification class; or get a more reliable vehicle; or the kids get out of school. Start with what is in your hand.
    Every day is a good day; it is up to us to a make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Monday, January 14, 2019

Mind Set

Time for a wonderful flashback. I want to reiterate the importance of our thoughts and how they govern our actions and outcomes. So this week I will share highlights from Exodus 4:1-5.     Exodus 4:1 – “Then Moses answered and said, “But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice; suppose they say, ‘The Lord has not appeared to you.’”
     Now is the time to stop listening to naysayers, critics, negative people and sourpusses. No one will ever totally buy into your dream because it is not for them it is for YOU. God has placed a special project, direction, dream or plan in your life and while some will support and encourage you, no one will fully understand what you must do. Most of the time you may not know 100% of what you must do because God might not reveal it to you but a piece or step at a time. Your first mind set change must be to stop the negative ‘talk’ that filters into your life. This might be from people but it can also be self-generated. Now is the time to squelch self-doubt and believe that those urging to get up and get moving are from God.
     Many of us feel the urge to go after wonderful plans but because they are grand or glorious we believe they are too far-fetched to be pursued. Stop the hindering and know that God has placed that in your heart. He is a BIG God and does not dwell in the miniscule. Why would a God who created worlds, galaxies and universes give you a ‘Dollar Tree’ plan? Yes it is big…go for it.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to a make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Friday, January 11, 2019

Moral and Just

Matthew 5:10 –“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
     Jesus told his disciples that those who were persecuted for doing that which is morally right would inherit the kingdom of heaven. Persecution can come in many forms. It can be mere taunts and name calling to as harsh as false imprisonment. The level of persecution and the overall stress that accompanies it is relative to the person on the receiving end. What one person can tolerate may be totally life-debilitating to another. Jesus reassured his followers (and us) that although persecution is probably inevitable when one is doing what is right in God’s sight, it is possible to withstand the slings and arrows by remaining focused on God and his love. Righteousness is the path to freedom in living a life not impacted by evil persecution. This is not to say that persecution will not come - yes it may come, and most likely it will come; but its impact is not detrimental because we are blessed and our reward is sure.  Don't waste your  time and energy worrying about what others say about you or about what you believe.  Turn the negative into a positive by focusing your love toward the God who protects, provides and loves us unconditionally. 
     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

Thursday, January 10, 2019

Mercy, Mercy Me

Matthew 5:7 - “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.”

     Mercy is often referred to as the gift of ‘not getting what one deserves in the way of punishment or ill effects. When we do acts that might produce negative results; it is mercy that saves us from the punishment associated with such actions. Today’s beatitude states that those who are merciful will receive mercy. It reminds us that we get what we give; we will reap what we sow and most importantly is the fact that what we feed will grow. It is mercy that allows us to come through the fires of misfortune and not get burned; ride the angry ways of frustration and not get side-tracked.     Take a moment today and really observe ways where you can show mercy to someone in a difficult position. Who owes you a bit of money and you know it won’t kill you if it does not get returned? Call them up and release them from the debt. Show mercy. Who has wronged you and although you have every reason to have righteous indignation, show mercy and offer forgiveness without strings attached. Find ways to show mercy; for in doing so you shall receive.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Wednesday, January 9, 2019

Meek and Mild

Matthew 5:5 – “Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth.”
As Jesus was talking with his disciples he reminded them that those who possess inward, peaceful and gentle natures will be spiritually secure and worthy of respect. As we demonstrate a sweet, self-controlled, kind-hearted disposition, we represent the true essence of the God who created us. Blessed are we when we respect the lives and livelihood of others.
Having and demonstrating a meek nature does not mean that we are doormats or allow for our ways to be trod upon, what it means is that we manifest a peaceful nature and maintain our ‘cool’ no matter what the circumstances because we know that even with the greatest of opposition the battle is not ours, but the Lord’s. So let’s practice keeping our composure and allowing things to ‘roll off of us like water on a duck’s back. Forgive the obvious misgivings of others and live peaceable with even the oppressive and overbearing people we have to deal with daily.
Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Poor in Spirit

Jesus had been traveling, teaching and healing in the synagogues and byways throughout Galilee. As word spread about him the crowd that followed him grew larger.; He retreated to the mountain where he talked with his disciples and shared with them the teachings that have been named “The Beatitudes” .For the next few days we will explore the blessings of the ‘Beatitudes’ from the Sermon on the Mount.
     Matthew 5:3 - “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
     To be ‘blessed’ carries with it many meanings; each significant to a particular situation. To be blessed could mean to the spiritually prosperous, or to be happy, to be admired or appreciated. The first ‘beatitude’ states – blessed are the poor in spirit. This ‘poor’ status means to be devoid of spiritual arrogance; not ego-driven. It refers to those who are not puffed up; those who regard themselves as insignificant. They are not depressed or lack self-esteem; nor do they have tendencies for self-degradation. What they possess is a strong sense of self and therefore do not need to taut, brag, boast or push their agendas. To be poor in spirit implies hope in God alone! 
     Matthew makes it clear that this does not refer to physical poverty, but to spiritual inadequacy. Man must recognize God's adequacy and his own inadequacy. Jesus tells his disciples that those who carry themselves in such a manner -theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever]. The kingdom of heaven refers to the reign of God in human hearts.
    This week as we encounter people, circumstances, situations, opportunities and even set-backs let’s do as instructed in this first beatitude and watch out for indulging in ego-based actions or reactions. Let’s focus on ways to allow God to rest, rule and abide in our hearts.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn

Friday, January 4, 2019

Lift Up (3)

Today we wrap up the final part of the discussion on the importance of obedience in progressing onward.
     Genesis 13:14(NIV) – “The Lord said to Abram after Lot had left him, Lift up now your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward".
     Lastly, Abram was told to look in all directions. We sometimes are so focused on pinpointing one specific way of doing something that we get pigeon-holed into believing that our blessings are only going to come through one particular avenue. There are some who think that it is only by working hard, long, unrelenting hours, that they will be successful in caring for themselves and their families. God’s grace could provide a new concept or idea that could make them a millionaire overnight if they looked up long enough to see it. Some might believe that it is only through education or through marriage that they will be able to achieve their dreams and desires. God’s plans may be in a totally different direction. So look up and look around – great things are on the horizon.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Have an awesome first weekend of the New Year. See you on Monday. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn



Thursday, January 3, 2019

Lift Up (2)

In continuing the discussion of yesterday, let’s look at the next example of obedience in progressing onward. Enjoy!
     Genesis 13:14(NIV) – “The Lord said to Abram after Lot had left him, Lift up now your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward".
     Secondly, God told Abram to lift up his eyes and see his future. Sure, we must live in this world and be in this moment, but God gives us the authority to look beyond our circumstances and see the hope of our future. We need to stop focusing on where we are at ground level and peer into the starlight. We must look above the storms and see the calm of the heavens and forget about the mischief, mayhem and mockeries of everyday life. What we see at ground level can deceive us into believing there is nothing greater. Don’t worry about taxes or bankruptcies or unplanned pregnancies or medical reports - these are all lower level concerns. Think on the lovely things, the promises of God, the things of a higher calling. Look at the love, patience and trustworthy faithfulness of our Great God. When we focus on these, the other ‘stuff’ falls into place.
       Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn. Check back tomorrow for the final part of this discussion.

Wednesday, January 2, 2019

Lift Up (1)

For the next few days of this brand new year I want to share my thoughts on making the most of progressing onward. Enjoy!      Genesis 13:14(NIV) – “The Lord said to Abram after Lot had left him, Lift up now your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward".
      Things had gotten a bit sticky and touchy between the servants of Abram and the servants of Lot because they were having clashes over grazing land for their flocks and herds. Abram gave Lot the first choice of which area he would select and of course he chose the prime, well-irrigated land of the Jordan Valley. As soon as Lot left, God spoke to Abram and reiterated his promise. He told Abram to lift up his eyes and to look in all directions. God would bless him mightily. We can take a few lessons from this scripture.
       First of all let me point out that it states that when Lot left then God spoke to Abram again. Earlier in chapter 12 we see God visiting Abram and telling him to leave his home and countrymen and go to a land where God would direct him. He was instructed to separate himself from his family and follow God’s command. Well… in comes Lot, Abram’s nephew… throwing a monkey wrench into the operation. So we see from the beginning that there is a fly in the ointment. Who do you have tagging alongside you that might be hindering your progress? They are familiar; they are loved; they mean you no harm, but their very presence might be slowing God’s promise for you to a standstill. Re-evaluate your purpose in life and the promises and instructions given to you by God. Do they include any special clauses that need to be adhered to specifically? Be careful for God does follow his own rules, even if we don’t. If God told you to attend a certain school or work at a certain job or avoid a certain activity and you alter your ‘assignment’ -your blessings may be hindered. Obedience is key.
         Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a GREAT day!. Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn   Check out part 2 tomorrow!

Tuesday, January 1, 2019

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 myself this year is to endeavor to not focus so much on trying to change the physical self but to seek to find the God –in us and bring him 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, to love him more, to allow the Holy Spirit to reveal that love to others, 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 let’s surrender our lives 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! Rev. Dr. JoAnn