Moving On Up

To all readers: in case you did not know, I have moved my blogging to a different site.

Please click the link to be directed to my new site. Feel free to follow me on the new site from now on as I will not be posting here anymore. http://www.adedicatedlife.com/

Thank you and God bless.

J.H.

Keep Your Focus

"Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished the race we're in. Study how He did it, because He never lost sight of where He was headed (He. 12:2-3 The Message).

I have been thinking about the word focus for a few days now. There are so many things going on in my life, sometimes it's hard to remember why I do what I do. My wife and I are in the middle of a big transition. Moving is hard, but moving out of state is even worse. I'm surrounded by boxes, I have to get things done before a certain date, must get the Penske truck, got to take those bags in the office to Goodwill for a donation, have to schedule a shut-off date for utilities, etc.

I feel like my life is in the middle of a whirl-wind and I cannot do anything to stop it; but if I ever forget why I'm doing all this, trouble awaits me.

We're moving to a new city, well, new for me anyway. My wife was born and raised in Walnut but it's all new to me. We're not going for jobs, friends, or anything like that, but we are going to help the church, be leaders, and walk through the door that God has opened for us.

How easy would it be to lose my focus right now?! So much is going on each day and I forget to brush my teeth some days... I know, gross!

The opening to this post is a Scripture from Hebrews. I read that today and it just hit me like a ton of bricks! Most of us know the Scripture in the KJV version: "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God (He. 12:2 KJV).

What that means is to look to Jesus. He has been where you and I are right now... and He finished the race! Jesus was on this earth for a reason; "... to seek and to save that which was lost (Lu. 19:10).

Jesus kept His focus. He knew what He was put on earth to do and He did it. I would say Jesus had a lot of distractions while on earth. If you study the life of Jesus, you'll find that there were many times that He could have given up. However, Jesus kept His focus and did not let anything stop Him from finishing His mission on earth.

We must look unto Jesus! He knows what you're going through... He's been there. He knows your pain, He knows how you feel and what questions you have. Jesus knows.

When you feel like giving up, just look to Jesus. Keep your eyes fixed on Him and what He has for your life.

In my life, there are many things that try to distract me. Right now there are so many things that could take my focus off of my real purpose; but every time I feel that way, I look to my Jesus.

I was reminded today of something my mother said a few years ago while I was going through a battle in my life. "We have to remember why we're really here." We must stay focused on what we are here to do. Keep on going! Don't slack off of your prayer life! Keep pressing on! God knows and He has a plan for you! Keep your eyes fixed on Him and let Him guide you!

Don't lose your focus!

Think about it.

J.H.

Made to Worship

"I will praise thee with my whole heart... I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth... (Ps. 138:1-2).

I am all about missions work! I support world-wide missions through my local church. There are so many missionaries out there, some even putting their own lives on the line to preach the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ.

I have talked to several missionaries about how they got started, how it is for them in these foreign countries, what barriers they encounter, how long it took to learn the language of the country in which they now reside, etc. I love talking to men and women of God and just picking their brain... can't you tell?

One missionary in particular that stands out and that has my attention a little more than others is Bro. Tony Adams, a missionary to Krakow, Poland. He has such a strong desire and burden for the people in that country. Talking with him, I have felt his burden and gained some insight to missionary life as well. A great man of God indeed.

Bro. Adams and I have messaged on Twitter and Facebook several times. I remember one conversation in particular that was entirely in Polish. I learned the language at a previous job and I feel a strong desire and burden in my heart to go to that country one day.

I've talked with several other missionaries around this world. There are so many different countries out there that need men of God like Bro. Adams to have the discipline to learn about a particular country and the courage to go out there and do a work. Missionaries inspire me greatly! I'm sure there's a ton of things that come with being a preacher in a foreign land... the language barrier alone could be a long and brutal process to overcome.

Think about this: no matter what country, no matter the language or dialect, there is one word that is the same all around the world.

Each nation has its own language. Some countries around the world have several different dialects for just one language! It can get confusing I'm sure, but there is still one word that remains the same for all. The one word that is the same for an American, Russian, Polish, or Italian... Want to know what it is??? Let me tell you...

"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth His handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard" (Ps. 19:1-3).

Hallelujah is the one word that is the same in every nation. Specifically, the one word that everyone can say, despite their predominant language is a praise unto God. Anyone can praise the LORD. Everyone can lift up His name! It doesn't matter where you are, your praise is still heard!

My associate pastor, Bro. Erickson, told of a time that he was in Chile. In the service, the audience began chanting, "Jesus! Jesus! Jesus!" in their native tongue. They had to have a translator for the preaching because their languages were different. Associate Pastor Nate Whitley in Knoxville, TN was preaching in Africa... he too had to have a translator. BUT ONE WORD IS THE SAME!

A praise to Jesus Christ is the same no matter where you are. No matter what language you speak or where you are in this world, you can praise God.

It's really something how the one word we can all say, the one thing we can all do despite our background or language is to praise God. It seems like we were all made to praise the name of Jesus.

"There is none like thee, O LORD; neither are there any works like unto thy works. All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O LORD; and shall glorify thy name" (Ps. 86:8-9).

Yep.... It sure sounds to me like we were all made for worship. The Scripture I used earlier in Psalms 19 shares more later in the chapter. The Message Bible puts it this way: "The revelation of God is whole and pulls our lives together" (Ps. 19:7).

We were all made to worship. The glory of God draws us all together, to unite and praise our God as we were intended to do from the beginning.

Like the lyrics to a song by Chris Tomlin; "You and I were made to worship..."

Think about it.

J.H.

Carry the Weight

Yesterday, the religious world celebrated Pentecost Sunday, and what a Pentecost Sunday my church had! Four were baptized, all of which have the holy ghost, several were refilled, God was pouring out His spirit all over the place. My pastor mentioned that our church has Pentecost Sunday 52 weeks out of the year, that is, every Sunday.

Before the evening service, I was in the prayer room. I heard the voice of my pastor and associate pastor as I always do. These two men are incredible prayer warriors and their voice exceeds everyone else in the prayer room. I also heard a few others that were a little louder than the general hum of voices. I began thinking about how these people seem to carry the tone of our prayer room every single time before service.

Someone is always taking the lead and stepping up to the plate. Spiritually, someone has to carry the load, the burden, and the drive that will excel the church forward. So many of us seem to think that it's our pastor's job to do this. True, our pastor is the leader of our church, but we all should take the initiative to propel our church forward.

Think about this: what if those voices that override everyone else in the prayer room weren't there anymore? What if the fanatical praisers and leaders in worship didn't exist? Would the prayer room become silent? Would the praise die down? Would the songs cease?

The future of ourselves and our church belong to us! It is up to each one of us individually to carry the load and to see the vision of what God has in store.

Purpose to be the one who carries the load. Whether you have a large church or not, there is always someone that has to step up, be a leader, carry the weight, etc. Why not you? If everyone has the idea, "Someone else will do it..." then nothing will be done at all. Never dismiss a biblical command or an opportunity to do something for God by making something you're "not called to do."

We are all called to win souls, to share this gospel truth, to help our church, to get behind our pastor and support his vision.

It's time we step up and do more. Purpose in your heart to carry the load. Step out and be the one who makes a difference. If we all do that, think of what we can accomplish! Isaiah talks about the LORD looking for someone to send, asking, "...who will go for us. Then I said, here am I; send me (Is. 6:8).

Think about it.

J.H.

Why We Live

This thought has been in my mind for quite some time. It became more relevant to me the other day when my job ended. Don't worry, it's all for a reason and everything is already working out. So let me tell you about it...

Everyday I get up and do the same thing. I even talked about this a little in a previous post, "Tools of the Trade". I get up, grab my favorite large cup and pour the auto-brewed coffee. Take a sip and off to the study I go. I pray, study God's Word, finish getting ready, and go to work. That's basically my morning routine.

Now, as you may know from my last post, my wife and I are moving. It was really something how it worked out. I even asked God if it was really His will for us to move to take away my job. To be completely transparent, I was reluctant to say that. I really liked my job and it's probably the best one I've ever had. Well, I went in the next day and was given a final working date. In other words, I was laid off. My last day went from the 21st, to the 15th, and then to, "Hey your last day is tomorrow".

I really had mixed emotions. I just lost the best job I'd ever had, but at the same time, I was being shown God's will for my life and reassured to go ahead with a move. In a sense, I felt like I lost my reason for my morning routine. Then I about slapped myself...

Sure coffee, work, school, and daily things we do are why we get out of bed each day, but is that really why we live? I almost slapped myself because the answer is a big NO.

I still get up every morning, grab the coffee and come into my study. My prayer life, my devotions, my LORD and Saviour Jesus Christ is the reason I live.

Like I said, I felt mixed emotions about losing my job. I was a little hurt by the way things turned out with a few people, I was excited to do what God wants, I was dreading the move and all the packing, and I really didn't know what was going to happen next. Ever felt that way?

The point is, I lost my job, not my reason for living. The reason I get up every single day is to live that given day to God Almighty! It should be the reason we get up whether we have a job, go to school, or not. Jesus should be the reason we live. I'm reminded of that song that says, "He's the only reason I live, but oh what a reason!"

There's nothing that this world can offer you that even comes close in comparing to Jesus. This world will leave you lonely, empty, and wanting more; but Jesus will always be with you, always give you what you need, and never leave you wanting.

Your real reason for living should not be found in your job, school, or friends. What kind of purpose do you have? Why are you getting up every day and going to work? What are you living for? If your answer is anything other than Jesus, it's probably hard to get up and be motivated to go and to do.

I remember when I was young and starting to date; I would say things to my 'girlfriends' like, "You're the only reason I live." Besides being 15 and not knowing what in the world I was talking about, I was saying something that shouldn't really be said. The reason we live should not be anyone or anything. Sure, I live to take care of my wife and family, but the ultimate reason to live is Jesus.

What is your reason for living?

Think about it.

J.H.

My Study

My wife and I are in the long and brutal process of moving. Not only moving, but moving out of state. All the packing, lifting furniture, Penske truck rentals, etc. while working and doing everything else you have to do can really take a toll on you.

Last night, I was reminded of when we first moved in to our first place as a married couple. We have a spare room that I made into a 'man cave'. A few days afterward, it was filled with all sorts of my wife's belongings... Anyway, I made this room my study or office of sorts. In this room is my desk, computer, Bible, notes, books, etc. I have made this room my prayer and study room which I visit on a daily basis. I guess you could say I have made my study my altar.

The LORD began speaking to my heart last night as I was going through this room. Seeing all the clothes, boxes, and miscellaneous things laying around makes it look chaotic in here; but in the midst of the mass confusion that is in this room, I made my way to my altar.

The Bible says, "Study to show thyself approved, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (II Ti. 2:15). The Message Bible puts it this way, "Concentrate on doing your best for God, work you won't be ashamed of, laying out the truth plain and simple".

Could it be that the studying part is the prayer, fasting, and dedication that comes with a life of consecration to God? I have made my study my place of prayer and devotion, so this scripture comes to a new life to me. My 'study' is my dedicated life.

A life that is filled with prayer, fasting, dedication, and sacrifice will be the most rewarding life anyone could ever live. In our 'study' we show ourselves approved. Whether our study be beside a chair, bed, couch or whatever else, we must show ourselves approved unto God.

I've made my study my personal place of dedication. Where is yours? A study is not a fun place to the flesh... trust me. I wake up and go directly to the coffee pot that has been set on auto-brew to wake myself up, then make my way to my study. It takes extreme discipline on my part because I am in no way a morning person. Like I said, a study is never fun or appealing to the flesh, but it is most rewarding to the spirit. A dedicated life... it takes a study.

Think about it.

J.H.

Taking Jesus to All

Yesterday, I saw something that made my heart hurt. I turned into a gas station and pulled up beside the pump. A lady was filling her car in front of me. She had this look on her face that made me know there was something wrong. Her eyes were tearing and her hands were starting to shake. As I went inside to pay, I really began to wonder what was wrong. When I came out, she was driving away... then I was angry at myself for not reaching out to her.

I was reminded of an encounter I had with a homeless man not too long ago... He was sitting on a curb playing the harmonica around Market Square in Knoxville. He would talk to people as they went by. I told my wife we should get him some food and maybe talk to him a bit... When we passed by the spot again, I had forgotten about the food and didn't have time to go back and get some... again, I was angry at myself.

Last story: My friend from Texas experienced a similar situation, only he actually did something. Pulling up to a red light, Lee saw a homeless man on the side of road. He got out of his car, and sat beside the man. Lee talked to him about Jesus and shared with him the Word of God, gave the man some money for food and after a little while longer, left and went on his way.

Oh how I wish I would have been like Lee!

You see, the gospel is for everyone. God promised the Holy Ghost to all... "For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off... (Acts 2:39). Just because we have it, doesn't mean we should keep it to ourselves.

I kick myself when I think about how I let those opportunities pass by and how I didn't do more. Who am I to withhold the news of Jesus to myself?

These situations lead me to ask this question: how far will you go to reach a complete stranger? What are you willing to do for someone you don't even know? Matthew says to ...go into all the world and teach all nations... (Mt. 28:19). All nations would cover everyone in the world, wouldn't you say?

People pass by strangers without so much as a nod or even a smile. There are lost and dying people out there in our world... what are we doing about it?!? We should be taking Jesus to everyone around us, showing people His Word, telling them that there is hope, healing, and salvation! We should share this gospel!

Matthew 25 talks about the King being hungry and receiving food, thirsty and getting a drink, being a stranger and receiving hospitality, naked and being clothed, sick and in prison and having visitors. The righteous ones reply when and how did we do all these things? The answer sums up this whole post: Jesus answered in verse 40 and says, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, ye have done it unto me (Mt. 25:40).

Can we take that literally? When we pass strangers or homeless people and ignore them, are we doing it to God Himself? I think this is a call to do more, to reach out to people no matter who they are or what they look like.

Hebrews says it like this: "Don't forget to show hospitality to people you don't know. By doing this, some have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it (He. 13:2). Could we be entertaining angels when we talk to a stranger? How about that man or woman on the street corner? Is this a test to see what you will do for someone you don't even know? If we don't share the gospel with our world, our city, our street... who will?

I ask again; what are you willing to do for a complete stranger? How far outside your comfort zone will you go? The gospel is for everyone... will you share it with those around you?

Think about it.

J.H.

God's Way

College is killing me! Don't get me wrong, I don't regret enrolling in school, but sometimes it is so frustrating! I attend the University of Phoenix (online) and it has recently become a lot harder than I thought it would be. I work full-time, I have a wife, I'm involved in church, I'm getting ready to move, etc. Please understand I'm not here to complain... I am indeed going somewhere with all this...

After completing my first class at UOP, my instructor noticed what he said was, "an extremely bright and ingenious individual". Yeah, I thought that was a little over the top too. I mean really, me? I'm not smart! Well, through a process of days, the president of the university was hearing about me. Long story short, I was the top student in the class and the university and the president wanted to recognize me for my efforts, blah, blah, blah.

Now think about this: I am just a common man. There are so many people out there that excel so much higher in academics than I. Individuals all over the nation that are just pure geniuses... people that work at places like NASA and Dawson Geophysical Inc.

Now imagine: the brightest minds around, the smartest people on earth, the quickest thinkers, the ingenious levels of intelligence... No matter how smart those people are, there is one that knows and sees so much more.

Isaiah puts it this way; "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts" (Is. 55:8-9).

You see, no matter how smart we think we are, God knows all. His thoughts are higher! His ways are higher! Our thoughts cannot even be compared to His.

There are some things in this life that we weren't meant to understand. That is why we should put our trust in the One who does know and who does understand.

See, God is not just a man or someone who can predict the future... He's GOD! He knows everything about you and your life. He knows what is best for you and sees what you can't see. I know, sometimes it's hard to trust in another... especially when you can't even see them. But I challenge you to give Jesus a chance. Trust in Him and He will never let you down. He will never fail.

When we can't see what's going on, when we can't see a way out, God does. He knows what to do and He knows what you need. Trust Him. Trust His ways; they are higher and much better than ours. God sees the end from the beginning. He created you and knows what's best for your life. He also gave you a will to choose. So it's up to you. Will you follow His ways or try and make it on your own?

Think about it.

J.H.

This is the Line

I absolutely dislike my nose... Wait! Keep reading, I'll explain. I have this very annoying line across the bridge of my nose from where it was broken many years ago. When meeting new people, especially when I was younger, people would come up to me, introduce themselves and ask, "What's that line thing?" looking at my nose while pointing to theirs. Grrr!

It annoyed me a lot in earlier years. Now, not so much... the glasses usually hide it. You know, it's a funny thing about scars, lines, and other marks you may have. When I see my annoying little line, I remember what happened, where, how bad it hurt, etc. Also, I remember not to do what I did to get the scar in the first place.

Much like our lives today, scars have a way of reminding us of what we have been through. We may be bruised, cut up with lots of scars, but we have come through.

Back to the line; on my face there is a line. The line reminds me of some pain I endured, but it also reminds me not to cross the unforeseen line to what led me to be hurt.

A line in your life could be more of a blessing than you might think. The line is where you stop serving the enemy and letting him have control of your life, where you stop serving your flesh and giving into your desires... not crossing that line anymore.

Jesus endured much pain and had many lines on His body. Calvary was not pretty. Jesus did not deserve to die or to be in pain. The cross is a picture of a man that knew no sin, but He became sin and was crucified so that you and I could live and have a chance. What are you doing with that chance?

The lines in your life are there for a reason. Don't be so disgusted with lines that are on or around you. I can deal with my line, my nose isn't that big of a deal to me. More importantly, the lines in my life are another reminder of what God has brought me through. He said that He will never leave me nor will He ever forsake me (He. 13:5). If God brought you to it, He will bring you through it. The Scripture says, Yea though I walk through the valley... (Ps. 23:4). Notice that word... through. You will have things that come your way, you will have troubles and circumstances, but God will bring you through!

I go back to what I stated previously in this post; Jesus gave you a chance, what are you doing with that chance? How long will you go? How far will you run in fear? Where and when will you draw the line?!

We're in a battle. We will fight the enemy until we reach heaven. Have you had enough running, being in fear, and constant strife? The devil cannot stand against the Most High God! Our lives are what we build upon the solid rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail... (Mt. 16:18).

God is on our side! He is our refuge against the enemy (Ps. 61:3) His name is a strong tower that we can run into and be safe (Pr. 18:10). Nothing formed against you shall prosper (Is. 54:17). You see where I'm going with this?

Nothing the enemy throws at you can keep you down. All that he tries to do to you and build up against you will break and crumble with God on your side! Enough is enough! Draw the line!

Think about it.

J.H.

Throwback

As I've stated in previous postings, I have a daily routine. I know, I'm a creature of habit. I'll save you the morning habits and skip to the part where I get to work. I get all my things I need at the time and all pressing matters that need attended to first. When I'm ready to get started, I bring up Pandora on my computer or iPad. As I did this routine yesterday, something caught my attention; I saw a picture of an old Pepsi can. I guess I noticed because I have been on a Pepsi kick for over a week for some reason.

What really did it for me was what the ad said on the can and the sign below. It really bothered me. Throwback! You moved on but the past is back! Really irritating.

Now I'm not saying that Pepsi is of the devil, but does this ad remind you of anything the enemy tries to tell you? Yeah you tried to move on, you thought you kicked that bad habit, you thought everyone forgot about that really bad thing you did a few years ago, but WRONG! Anyone besides me ever get told this by the enemy?

Even when the devil tries to throwback our past mistakes, our messed up situations, and so on, we do not have to take it! Okay so you made some mistakes... who hasn't?!?! So you did some things that people won't let you forget... I have too!

Listen, no matter what the circumstance or what the enemy may try to tell you about your life, your past is gone! When you go to Jesus and ask for forgiveness, He forgives you! Micah says that God will have compassion on us, stomp on our sin, and throw it into the depths of the sea (Mi. 7:19). Psalms say that He is slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy (Ps. 103:8). A few verses later it says as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our sins from us (Ps. 103:12).

So let me sum it up for you: when you go to God and ask Him to forgive your sins, He does! Your previous life is over, your mistakes are no more, your past is gone! Don't let the enemy tell you any different. When God forgives, your sins do not exist anymore!

I'm sure we have all had experiences where we were reminded of something we've done or said in our past, and sometimes that happens; but you don't have to dwell on it. We can learn from mistakes, but we don't have to live in them.

When you're surrounded by people who constantly remind you of 'what you did' or when the enemy whispers in your ear that you will never be anything because of that mistake you made, you remind the devil that God forgave you! Don't let the enemy sing you that old song when God gave you a new song to sing. You don't have to live in your past. It's gone!

You are a new creature in Jesus Christ (II Co. 517). Don't let that lying, deceitful enemy throw your past back in your face. Your past is over. Jesus makes all things new!

Think about it.

J.H.

Nighmares and Dreamscapes

As a kid, I used to have this reoccuring dream that I was lying down in a field looking up at the sky. I would lay there and watch the clouds roll by, making shapes and pictures out of each cloud. I knew the grass was tall because I could always see it while looking up at the coulds. It was as if I was deep in the ground somehow.

Then the worst thing happened; I was gazing at the sky and the grass beside me began to move. Thinking it was the wind, I ignored it. Until a man dove on top of me and began to choke the life out of me. It didn't matter how many times I had this dream, he always took me by surprise.

I'd wake up in a cold sweat, breathing heavy, feeling nauseated. It always took what seemed like forever to fall back asleep and sometimes I didn't go back to sleep at all.

This went on for a long time. I had this dream maybe once or twice a month, sometimes more. However, no matter how many times I had this nightmare, I'd always wake up. It might've gotten to the point where I didn't think I was going to make it, or I may have felt like giving up, but I always woke up.

Nightmares are horrible! A living nightmare is even worse. Sometimes these are referred to as dreamscapes... it's a dream-like sometimes surreal scene one encounters.

I call dreamscapes 'living nightmares'. It's those circumstances that life gives you that make your world feel like a living hell. Torment, in a trance-like state, the enemy has a hold on you and you feel like you can't break free.

If you are in this sort of situation, or just going through something where you need to just break free and feel peace, I invite you to read Ps. 30:5 - "... weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."

It doesn't matter how bad your nightmare or how unrelenting your dreamscape, there is joy waiting for you. Your night may be filled with terror, weeping, confusion, and fear; but God did not give us the spirit of fear; but of power, love, and of a sound mind (II Ti. 1:7). That sound mind part is your peace, and God is not the author of confusion, but of peace (I Co. 14:33).

There is hope. You can have peace of mind. You can lay down at night and sleep without fear; for He gives His beloved sleep (Ps. 127:2).

Your peace is through Jesus Christ. He is a loving God and the author of our peace. He can take your nightmare and your dreamscape and turn it around for your good. He will be your strength and refuge. Turn to Him! Trust Him! It's not over for you. There's more to your life than what you're currently going through. He will turn your mourning into dancing, and your sorrow into joy (Ps. 30:11). Just hold onto Him... joy awaits you.

Think about it.

J.H.

Tools of Trade

Every morning I have basically the same routine. It includes the usual getting up, dressed, prayer, brush teeth, etc. Before I leave, I go to my office and grab my bag which includes a laptop, notebooks, pens, files, papers, adapters, keys, an ipad, and more. These are all things I use for my job on a daily basis; the tools of my trade.

I get to work and have even more things I handle. A desktop computer, work books, an array of cords, different adapters for various machines, projectors, miscellaneous computer parts, and the list goes on.

Everyone has their specific tools for all that we do. A carpenter has a tool belt, a teacher has books to teach from, a mechanic has an entire tool box, etc. Each specific tool of our trade enables us to fulfill what we do on a daily basis; what we have spent time, energy, and even money on doing. Our tools aid us in operating in our particular field in which we spend our 40 hours a week.

So what's the point of all this tool-talk here? Am I trying to be the next Bob Vila? No. What I'm going to do is show us some other tools of a trade... His trade.

The majority of people may think of God and automatically think of the Bible as being the tool of trade. Not wrong, but there's more to it than that.

Ephesians tells us to put on the whole armor of God (Ep. 6:11). It goes on to tell us just what that armor is and what we use it against in verses 13:17(NIV). We don't fight against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil authorities that are unseen. So put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to stand strong in battle. After you've done everything you can, stand your ground. Stand with the belt of truth, body armor of right living, shoes of peace from God's Word so you're fully prepared. Then grab the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit which is the Word of God.

You see preachers are not the only ones that have to fight against the enemy and use the Word of God to do so. We all have battles. Everyday. Sometimes we may feel like we can't make it, like we should just give up, throw in the towel, quit; asking questions like, "What's the point?" or "Who cares?"

Do not give in to the lies of the enemy! God's Word is telling you to go forward, there is hope, and you have what it takes to make it. The words above are written in red to show that those words are coming directly from the Word of God. You do have what it takes, you can make it, and you will get through!

This is our true trade; His trade. These are the tools for it... truth, righteousness, peace from God's Word to prepare us, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. These tools will never fail us. They'll never get old and worn out. They'll never crash, lose data, or break.

Now I ask, how prepared are you? Do you have truth? Do you have the peace from God's Word? Do you read your Bible? When you begin your preparation for the battle of life, make sure you have your proper tools. Dive deep into God's Word. Being prepared makes a world of difference. Try out II Timothy 2:15 (AKJV) Study to show yourself approved to God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Don't quit. Don't give up. You can make it. God handed you the tools to get through it. Are you using the tools of His trade?

Think about it.

J.H.

Smokin Praise

Severe weather always interests me. I keep telling my wife that I could be a storm chaser like on the T.V. show, but I don't think that will happen, especially when she gives me that "don't even think about it" look.

Speaking of severe, weather, I received an alert, via Blackberry weather from the local news station, that there are thunderstorm warnings and tornado watches for my county. This should be an interesting window view.

No sooner had I received this alert, I saw a door open just outside my window in my office. The door was to the offices beside me that share this building. Three women came out the door, quickly went to get under an awning, and began to smoke. I'm sitting here thinking, seriously!? It's pouring outside, there's a tornado warning, and people are going outside, just to smoke!

I've heard people say they smoke when they get stressed, angry, when things get rough, or just need a break. So no matter what it looks like outside, people are going to go out and smoke. In the middle of a storm, literally, people go and kill themselves with each drag.

So if they can take a smoke break, how about I take a praise break!?

Whether our lives are filled with storms or surrounded by circumstances that are out of our control, we should praise the most High! God is worthy!

Don't base your praise and worship on how your day is going or what you're facing in your life. God is worthy no matter what! Psalms says, "Give unto the LORD the glory due unto His name;"

People are entitled to take breaks on their job. Breaks that damage their body, breaks where they are slowly killing themselves. how much more should we take a praise break to give God glory!?! Praise is good and is good to do. When you praise Him, your spiritual and even physical body improve. Praise strengthens your spirit, soul, mind, and body.

God deserves the glory. Despite your situation, no matter what your circumstance, praise Him! Look at it this way: you're breathing, you have life, you have food, you have shelter, and you always have Jesus!

Despite your circumstances, no matter what your situation, take a praise break. No matter what you're going through, praise your way out of it! Keep going! God has control! No one said it'd be an easy road, but you can praise your way through it!

Think about it.

J.H.

The Day After

Yesterday was Easter. A day to celebrate one of the greatest events in history; Jesus rising from the dead. The grave could not hold Him, He arose just like He said He would do. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the greatest events in history! Not only an event, because the Resurrection lives in us when we die to our sin and rise up in Christ!

Churches, mine included, across the nation were pushing to do everything they could to invite more people than ever to attend their Easter services. We were doing so much to invite the people of our city to come to our special Easter Celebration services; made special invitation cards, put out signs, posted on Twitter and Facebook, and so much more to get the word out about this one service.

So here we are on the day after the Easter services. Does that mean that we stop reaching and pushing to get people to come to our church services?

Today is another opportunity to win the lost, to reach out to our community, to show people God's love and to share His Word.

We went to such great lengths and did so much to get people to come to our Easter services. Now that Easter is over, are we done reaching for the lost? We were all on our best behavior, looked our best, greeters wore extra smiles, we all shook all the hands we could, and showed God's light to our guests, but now that Easter is over, will we continue to make the same effort?

There is still a lost and dying world out there. There are still hungry people searching for something and someone to show them. Matthew has a very familiar verse that says, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations..." I didn't see a timeline in that verse. It doesn't say 'Go teach everyone about God until after Easter.

There is still a lost world that needs to be taught about God and His Word. Just because Easter is over does not mean that we should stop reaching for people and showing God's love.

Like I said, we all made such a huge effort to get people to come to our Easter services. It was all about souls, winning the lost, showing our guests the love of Jesus, etc. Will you continue to make the same effort on the day after Easter? Will you still show the love of Jesus and continue to witness with the Easter effort on the days after?

Think about it.

J.H.

Master's Degree

Last Sunday morning, I was in a church service at the First Apostolic Church in Maryville, TN... as I always am. Standing in the congregation, singing, and offering up praises to the most high God, something caught my attention. Now, please realize, I do not go around looking at people and letting my mind wander off in the distance... not in a church service anyway; but on this particular morning, I noticed something and I could not pull my gaze away from it.

I noticed a man sitting down and looking at a copy of the recently published Apostolic Witness magazine. It was just an ordinary thing. I mean, how many people do you see looking at a magazine? This particular instance, however, was interesting to me. You see, it was not the man looking at the magazine, rather, it was what was on the back of the magazine that caught my eye. I couldn't see the entire page, but at the top was labeled, "Master's Degree."

Immediately my mind started working. Things like, "What's that about?" & "I wonder what is says." began to come in my mind. Later in the day, this thought still had not let go of me. I began to wonder if it was talking about a degree in education, a pedigree of some sort, etc.

You see, I am currently pursuing higher education. My first thought about this page on the magazine was of a Bible College... being as how it was on an Apostolic magazine and all; but throughout the day I began to see it in a new light. What if it was about The Master?

Whether or not the magazine page was about college, pedigree, or something else, I kept thinking of the title, Master's Degree, in a new form.

In any form of education, you must dedicate your time and even sacrifice your desires in order to achieve a degree. How much more should we sacrifice and dedicate our time, efforts, and energy for a greater cause? What if we pursued what the Master intended for our lives?

So many of us, myself included, have tried to earn education, titles, respect, etc. Spending hours in front of a computer or head-first in a book, but for what? A man's approval? Where is God in this picture? Instead of trying to please everyone around us, why not purpose to please Jesus? He is the Master and He is calling us to a higher standard, a higher purpose, a higher... degree.

Friends, the Master is calling us. He wants to bless you and fill your life with joy unspeakable. The Master's Degree is what Jesus wants you to be.

Even as a child, Jesus was found in the temple amongst doctors, teachers, etc. He was teaching them not the other way around. Jesus was educated and purposeful about His Father's business. That is a prime example for us to follow. We should be about our Father's business, sharing God's Word, teaching others about Him, letting everyone know that there is hope, there is a better way, there is love, and God does love you!

When I receive my Master's Degree from a University, I'll basically have a piece of paper saying that I'm educated in a particular field. What I really desire, what I dedicate my life to, is the the Master's reward. His 'degree' will be words filled with power and life; "well done." It's my desire to be with people of like precious faith that have made their way through this life, throw my graduation cap up in the air and enter into glory!

I long to achieve my Master's degree.

J.H.

Change - Yes We Can

Finally, an update. Haven't been on here in a long while. A lot has been going on lately. We're coming up to a date that will surely change our country (as if it hasn't been already). We here of all this change about to happen, things will be different, things will be better, etc. Our newspapers tell us what our president is saying, what democrats are railing republicans about and vice versa. It's all about to change... It's been said since even before the current president was elected... Change. Yes we can!

Ok enough politics. There's lots more that I could say, but lets just leave that alone for now...

However, there does need to be a change. Our states, our country, our world is falling apart. Haiti is covered in Cholera, the streets of France are filled with protesters, death tolls are rising in Afghanistan, Indonesian islands have endured a 7.7 magnitude earthquake, young men are killing in New York because of a different life style lived by another... the list goes on and on.

We need a change. We must have a change in our world. But how can we change the world...?

Simple: Jesus. His love.

How can we show this broken, lost, and dying world that there is hope... true hope...? We must show them Jesus. People need to see Jesus in us. We may be the only form of Jesus, church, or love that some people ever see.

It might seem like an unreachable goal, an impossible task, but it can happen. One day, one step at a time. This world needs Jesus. So where do we start?

Lets change the world... but, we can't change our world unless we change our country. We can't change our country unless we change our state. We can't change our state unless we change our city. We can't change our city unless we change our county. We can't change our county unless we change our neighborhood. We can't change our neighborhood unless we change the street on which we live. We can't change our street unless we change our own home. We can't change our home unless WE CHANGE! We do that through Him!

The point: We can change this world, but it has to start with us individually. We must make a difference and a change in ourselves before we reach out to anyone. For if we are not right, how can we show "right living" to others?

This post may be just to wake us up a little. Is our heart right? Are we really showing God's love to others?

Listen world changers: You want to make a difference and a change... it all starts with you. Get ahold of God like never before. Jesus is the only hope for any change. There's no time to waste. Jesus is soon to return and this world will be no more. The time is now. Take a deep look inside your own heart and into your own life... Are you ready to change the world?

J.H.

Dude, You're Weird

I took a trip to Mississippi for engagement pictures this past weekend. On the way back, I stopped in Nashville for some coffee and to stretch a bit. Got back in the car and was back on my way. Trying to get back to the interstate, I saw a man walking on the sidewalk and he appeared to be shouting something. His hands were raised and from what I understood of his shouts he was saying, "You're my God! You're my God! Thank you! Thank you!" I guess he was just walking down the road praising God. I thought that was pretty cool that someone would praise God without reservation, without caring who's around or who may be staring.

Now to the average person, that man walking down the street would be considered weird or strange. Some crazy dude walking down the street shouting gibberish at the air... Be honest here, what would your first thought be? To be transparent, mine was that he might be in trouble, or crazy. But no matter how strange it appeared to me at first, the fact was that he was a man simply praising God for all He has done.

Personally, I've always been a little different than most. People call me strange, weird, and other names that aren't worth mentioning. However, the difference between me and them is that I'm supposed to be different. It's safe to say that I'm supposed to be weird. My Bible tells me that I'm supposed to come out from among them and be separate (II Cor 6:17). So there's my calling to be different... to be weird. God's Word also tells me that God did not call me to be impure, but to be holy (I Thes 4:7). One more step further is that the gifts and callings of God are without repentance (Ro 11:29). They're irrevocable, they never change, they never expire...

So I'm supposed to be different because it's my calling that never changes or expires. When I separate myself from this world, I become closer to God, and nothing can separate me from Him or His love (Ro 8:38-39).

There are a lot of times that I've walked the opposite way of the world, didn't follow the crowd and I've been called weird, strange, stupid, etc. But the thing is, I'm supposed to be different. I'm a child of God. His Word says to be separate and I am totally cool with following God and not this world. God has too much in store for us to just walk away and be with the IN-crowd, the cool kids, etc. Being separate has benefits that are far better than anything this world could ever give us. Blessings follow people that are holy and separate (Nu 6:24-27).

Some people may see this whole "separate" thing as weird or having no fun, but God called us to be a holy and separate people. Separation is not isolation, but insulation. It's a protection from ungodliness. Being separate... being weird is the coolest thing you could ever do.

J.H.

Happy Valentine's Day, Jesus!!!

A few days ago we celebrated Valentine's Day. I was fortunate enough to spend it with the one I love. We did the usual V-day date and such... we did some not-so-usual things that just describe "us" fitting perfectly together.

I just wonder if any out there know what Valentine's Day really means or where it came from.

The Romans called it the festival the Lupercalia. The custom of exchanging valentines and all the other traditions in honor of Lupercus - the deified hero-hunter of Rome - was also linked anciently with the pagan practice of teenagers "going out". It usually led to fornication. Today, the custom of teenagers dating only one person on a regular basis is thought very modern... But is it? Or is it merely a rebirth of an old custom handed down from the Roman festival of the Lupercalia, celebrated in the month of February, when names of young women were put into a box and drawn out by men as chance directed?

The pagan Romans celebrated February 14 as an idolatrous and sensuous festival in honor of Lupercus, meaning the "hunter of wolves". Emperor Claudius II of Rome, also known as Claudius the Cruel was having a difficult time recruiting men as soldiers. He believed that the men did not want to leave their sweethearts and cancelled all engagements and marriages throughout Rome. St. Valentine, a priest of Rome at the time, secretly married couples. He was eventually caught, arrested and condemned. He was beaten to death and beheaded on February 14th, around the year 270.

Lupercalia was a feast to a heathen God. Pastors and priests of the early Christian church did away with the pagan custom by replacing the names of the girls with the names of saints. They chose St. Valentine’s Day as the day of celebration for the new feast.

Interesting. Today we use this pagan tradition as a day to spend with the one we love and have hearts, flowers, candy, etc. Don't get me wrong... I love my valentine and enjoyed spending the holiday with her. I just wonder if anyone thought about a greater love...

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (Jhn 3:16). You see, God loves us so much that he died for us. No heart-shaped holiday will ever compare to that. He is our first love and will always be. No matter what we do or where we go God will always love us. That's no excuse to go out and live it up... however, God's love for you and I is forever.

I wonder why... Me? A sinner, a common man, at times a fool, etc. God tells us My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. 9- For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts (Is 55:8-9).

So why does God love me...? I have no idea. We may not be able to explain it, understand it, or comprehend it, but it's true. Nothing compares to the love of Jesus. Nothing will ever take the place of His love for you. There is no greater love than Jesus laying down His life for you... His friend (Jhn 15:13) God calls you friend (James 2:23). God calls you His children (Rom 8:16). And nothing will ever separate you from the love of Jesus. For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39- nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom 8:38-39).

I know it's late, but Happy Valentine's Day to my first love! Jesus. The greatest love I've ever known.

J.H.

Ready, Set, GET MOVIN!

As a young man in school, I entered into our school's competition for several events. One of which was track. I remember it well... one reason is that I pulled a muscle a week before the competition. I ran in the event anyway. Walking down toward the starting line to take my place, I wondered how I was going to run, let alone finish. To me, I was doomed to fall down and possibly take others with me and make a complete fool out of myself.

Arriving at the starting point, a man with a small gun began talking to me and my four opponents. He told us what to expect; he'd say ready, set, and fire the gun. He explained the penalties if we drifted of into another running lane and so forth.

About to start, I took a deep breath and tried to relax. I felt my right leg sting with pain where the pulled muscle was. I focused my mind and ignored the pain. I heard the man with the gun, "On your mark, get set..." FIRE! I bolted off the line in front of the others. Twenty yards and still in the lead. Then the sting of pain shot through my leg. I pushed on, but slower. One runner passed, then two, then the others. I was dead last. Fifty yards to go and one runner was a few feet from the finish. I heard cheering for the winner and then saw all the others cross the finish line. I kept running... in pain, breathing hard, upset at myself, but I kept running. Finally, I crossed the finish line and collapsed on the sideline.

You see, I purposed in my mind and my heart to run the race before me. I hoped to be first, but in the end I was last. The point is, I finished.

God has placed a purpose and calling on each and every one of us. There is a particular call on all our lives. God has given us the opportunity to go and live the life He has called us to live. Judges 18 tells about a group trying to possess a land for an inheritance. It says, Arise, let's go. The land is good. And will you sit still? Don't be slow to enter and possess the land. 10 - When you get there, you'll find people living carefree lives. God has given it to you. It's a place where you will lack nothing (Jgs 18:9-10).

God has given your calling to you. Go get it! Your destiny awaits you. What are you doing for your calling? In some way, everyone has a calling on their life. I'm asking you, what are you doing to pursue it?

Prepare yourself. God has placed in you a purpose, a plan, and a calling that no one can keep you from. Pursue it! Your destiny is in your possession. Pursue it with everything you have. Soon it will come to pass.

Like my track competition, the race is to be finished. You might have some pulled muscles, you may be sweating, in pain, and feeling faint. But KEEP GOING! DO NOT STOP! Your calling is at the finish line waiting for you. You've got to keep on moving. ...The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong... (Ecc 9:11). You don't have to be the fastest or the strongest. Things will happen, trials will come, people and things will make you second guess your call, but persevere. You might have a rough road, but he that endures to the end, the same shall be saved (Mt 24:13).

You don't have to wait anymore. Step through the door God has placed in front of you. Pursue your destiny. If you want what God has for you, you better get moving! If you want things to happen, you have to get moving! You want it, go get it, in Jesus name.

So, you ready? You set? Go!

J.H.

God of Wonders

Ever look around and think, "How'd all this get here?" Things we see everyday we pass up and don't even notice. Things that are unseen don't even occur to us. Do you ever think of all that God has made? He holds time in His hands, the entire world is His footstool. The stars and galaxies, heaven and earth, etc. It's an amazing thing that all things were spoken into existence by Him.

I've heard some people say, "If God is so wonderful, then why doesn't He work things out for me?" Well, God can and God will. He can do anything. His Word says to cast your problems on Him and He will take of you (Ps 55:22 NLT). If we would just pray and tell Him our problems and our situations, He would answer our prayer. He knows what we need before we even ask (Mt 6:8). So what do you need? What are you searching for? What kind of miracle do you need in your life?

I'm reminded of a story in Joshua. The children of Israel were about to cross over Jordan and take the city of Jericho. Joshua told them to sanctify yourselves: for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you (Jsh 3:5). Before you can expect wonders, you must live right. Sanctify yourself, live the way God wants... not what you want. His will, not your own.

In the next chapter it tells of the priest who carried the Ark of God stood in the Jordan river and all the people crossed over. What stands out to me in this is that it says that when the waters parted, the people hastened and passed over (Jsh 4:10). When you arm yourself with God's Word and He begins to work in your life, you can run full-force into what lies ahead. Rise up and hasten to your season! Your new beginning is on the other side of the river in front of you. Run and pass over it. Pass over your problem and leave it behind.

Joshua and the children of Israel walked around the walls of Jericho once for six days. On the seventh day, it says they rose early about the dawning of the day and marched around the city just like before; only this time they walked around the walls seven times (Jsh 6:15). When they finished walking, when the priest blew the trumpets, Joshua said to the people, Shout; for the Lord has given you the city (Jsh 6:16).

Sometimes this life isn't easy. Sometimes you feel like you're walking in pointless circles; but just hold on. God is with you. When you don't know what to do, when you don't know how the bills will get paid, just take the hand of God and walk with Him... wherever He leads you. God will lead you and guide you and never lead you wrong. He's put you in this place for a purpose. You may not be able to see how things are going to end or where you'll end up, but remember God is leading you. He will place you in His perfect plan, and you can shout because God has given you your city. He will give you the answers to problems, to whatever is hindering you and holding you down.

Just think about it... the same God that created the universe, the same God that brought an entire city's walls down flat, that same God is with you and will work for you in your life. He is going to do something great in your life and in the upcoming year. We simple humans cannot fathom what God can really do for us. He is our God of wonders! He is a wonderful God!

J.H.