GOD CAN FIX IT FOR YOU!

God can heal He can deliver. He can mend your brokenness. He has a miracle to fix your need. Once you trust Him, you will receive.
-Byron Cage

There maybe someone sitting up right now unable to sleep because of tumultuous situations in your life. Or maybe when you awake your spirit maybe in turmoil. No matter what time this message reaches you I pray you will give God a try.
God wants to reassure you that He has the answers to your problems. Whatever they maybe; children, finances, employment, business, relationship,marriage, depression, health, loneliness, grief etc…. Why not give God the opportunity to fix it for you?
I guarantee if you trust Him with it, He will work it out in His time.
Stay encouraged!!!

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Obedience is better than sacrifice

Good Afternoon Family,

I wanted to share an encouraging and inspiring testimony about obedience that I experienced this morning on my route.

Before I go into my testimony, let me begin with some scriptural references on obedience. As customary, if you know me you know I rarely share anything with you without backing it up with scripture.  This is very important because I want to make sure you understand that these are not just merely my words, ideologies or stories but more importantly, testimonies that are supported and backed by the word of God.

The Bible is full of scriptures that deal with the subject of obedience, here are a few of them….

                                   ROMANS 1: 1-5

Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God— ² the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures ³ regarding his Son, who as to his earthly life was a descendant of David, ⁴ and who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. ⁵ Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for his name’s sake.

                                    2nd John 1:6

And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.

                                    Deuteronomy 6:3

Hear, Israel, and be careful to obey so that it may go well with you and that you may increase greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, promised you.

and the most familiar scripture of obedience that most people recite just as much as John 3:16.

                                      1st Samuel 15:22

 But Samuel replied:

“Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.

As you can see Family the Bible is very specific on obedience and yielding your will to the will of God.  What’s more important to mention is that obedience is not only predicated on yielding your will but it’s also intertwined with (faith); which is your belief system, (listening); which can only be done with your spiritual ear, (knowing the Holy Spirit); which can only come with being in a right relationship with Him.

Faith

The Bible says, that faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)

Question:

Do you believe God can do exceedingly above and beyond your wildest imagination?

Do you believe God can do anything but fail?

Do you trust Him enough to know that He has your best interests at heart?

Do you believe God wants to give you the best?

Do you know the promises of God?

Whatever your answer might be, let me assure you that if you can truly answer yes to these questions and know that the promises of God is “Yea” and “Amen”, then obedience to His will will not be difficult.  Notice I said it will not be difficult but it won’t be easy, meaning that as long as we live and breathe in the flesh, there will be a struggle yielding our will to His will.(Obedience).

Listening

                                   Matthew 11:15

He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

                                   Revelation 3:13

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

So you see Family the “listening” I’m referring to is not done by the natural ear but by the supernatural ear.  If you can not listen (hear) when the Holy Spirit is trying to relay a message to you or is trying to give you specific instructions then you can not possibly be obedient to the spirit of God!

Holy Spirit

(a) was with Christ from the beginning

The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God (Luke 1:35).

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:18).

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:20).

 

(b) gives guidance

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying …” (Luke 2:25-28).

(c) was given unto Christ

As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him (Matthew 3:16).

As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove (Mark 1:10).

And the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased” (Luke 3:22).

Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. I would not have known him, except that the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit’ (John 1:32-33).

(d) gives direction

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil (Matthew 4:1).

At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert (Mark 1:12).

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert (Luke 4:1).

(e) gives joy

At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure (Luke 10:21).

(f) gives power and anointing

“Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations (Matthew 12:18).

“But if I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you” (Matthew 12:28).

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed (Luke 4:18).

(g) should be reverenced

“And so I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come” (Matthew 12:31-32).

“But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; he is guilty of an eternal sin.” He said this because they were saying, “He has an evil spirit” (Mark 3:29-30).

“And anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven” (Luke 12:10).

(h) gives life and convicts

“The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life” (John 6:63).

“When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: in regard to sin, because men do not believe in me; in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned” (John 16:8-11).

(i) is freely given to those who believe

If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (Luke 11:13).

On the last and greatest day of the Feast {Tabernacles, v.2}, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “If a man is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified (John 7:37-39).

“If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you” (John 14:15-17).

(j) facilitates true worship

“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23-24).

(k) guides and teaches

“But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (John 14:26).

“When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me” (John 15:26).

“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come” (John 16:13).

“All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will take from what is mine and make it known to you” (John 16:15).

The Holy Spirit Would Give the Disciples the Words to Say When Put on Trial for Their Faith:

“For it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you” (Matthew 10:20).

“Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit” (Mark 13:11).

“For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say” (Luke 12:12).

It is succinct to mention Family that without the Holy Spirit guiding, teaching, empowering, leading, instructing and motivating you, it’s literally impossible to be obedient to the will of God. 

Yes, it takes faith and a spiritually inclined ear to yield your will to the will of God, however, without the power of the Holy Spirit intermingling these attributes together you’ll be more like tingling brass and sounding cymbals.  In order to be obedient to the will of God you must have what the Bible describes as a Three strand cord!

                                         Ecclesiastes 4:12

Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Sin can be a disastrous part in your spiritual being which may lead you to be disobedient to God’s will.  People and other negative influences may be another part that leads to your disobedience.  However, when you by faith, stand on the word of God. Hasten unto the throne of God and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you, this my friend can never fail you.

But as Paul says, “you have to put these things into practice”.

There is much more my you’ll need to know; if you don’t know by now, about this wonderful personage of the Holy Spirit that I can not possibly place all here now.  But if you’re interested, I will do a Bible study on the Holy Spirit and place it on my site. ****(let me know)****

Nonetheless, what is more important is that you get into that good relationship with the Holy Spirit and He will give you all the knowledge, wisdom and understanding you will ever need.

Now to my Testimony!

For those of you who do not know I am employed by New York Transit as a Bus Operator. As I was completing the last leg of my tour this morning there were two buses in a bus stop loading. Before the second bus completely pulled in behind the first bus I happened to see a woman with a baby stroller standing in the bus stop and it appeared she was waving for the bus to stop.  Now being that there were already two buses in the stand and there was no one that was aligning or alighting my bus, I could have went around both buses and proceed on the route.

However, something inside said for me to wait and let the other buses go first! Again there is no one getting on or off my bus, I’m running behind schedule, trying to get home from working all night and now something is telling me to wait. Suffice it to say, I waited and did not even know why?

Question:

Have you ever been in a place where something is prompting you to do something and you can not figure out why?

Have you ever done something that just did not make sense?

So I waited for the other two buses to pull off and then I proceeded.

To my surprise the woman with the baby still in the stroller is waiting in the bus stop!

Now again lets look at the variables surrounding this entire situation.

(1) I’m running late.

(2) I’m tired.

(3) I have worked all night.

(4) There were already two buses that just left that stand.

(5) It made no sense for me to wait.

(6) In all the time that I was waiting on those buses to leave, who would have thought this woman would still be  in the stand.

(7) The woman still had the baby in the stroller; which meant, I had to wait for her to take the baby out and then  fold up the stroller making me even more late.   

As these variables were playing in my head, waiting on this woman with the baby still in the stroller to get on the bus, I could have had an attitude and become upset. However, for some strange reason I was not.

As we were continuing on the route the woman with the baby struck up a conversation with another woman and they were discussing teacher related issues. Normally, I do not pay attention to conversations that happen on my bus but for some reason I was extremely keen on this one.

To make an even longer story short, the woman with the baby was looking for a substitute Teacher’s position and the woman she was talking to had connections with many of the school’s in the borough, principals and superintendents.

What made it even more clear that this was the working of the Holy Spirit, was that the woman knew the principal’s name that the new mom needed to see and the teacher’s associations union representative.

The Holy Spirit worked it out so well that both woman got off at the same stop and the woman with the baby was able to save the woman a trip to the school by delivering a message for her to a staff member she was on her way to see.

Some of you might say, so what!

How is this testimony possibly uplifting or inspirational?

Well Family, if you know me, you know that I always say that it’s not about you, but about the building of the kingdom of God and the uplifting of the people of God.

You see I could have just went around those buses, kept it moving and been justified in my actions. But that something that was saying to wait, was nothing less than the Holy Spirit prompting me to go into action to help someone else.

If I had been disobedient to the Holy Spirit, the woman with the baby would have never met up with the other woman to receive her blessing.

Will any of these women remember me?

Probably not.

Will the mother of the newborn wait to see if she can catch my bus another day to thank me for waiting for her?

Probably not.

Will she even give me a small token of appreciation?

Probably not.

Question:

So what’s the reward?

The reward Family comes from the fact that through all the emotions and variables that were present at the time of this encounter, I was still in a close enough relationship to notice when the Spirit was talking.  All of the buses that were on that route, God “CHOSE” me to be a small instrument as He blessed someone else.

I’m not even worth enough to gather the crumbs from underneath His table but yet He still chose me to do His bidding.

What a rewarding filling it is to see the hand of God moving in the lives of His people. Peter said, “silver and gold have I not, but such as I have I give unto t0 thee”.

Family there is no secret what God can do, what He’s done for others He can do for you. All we have to do is become obedient to will of God and to listen when He speaks.  He can speak in a nice quiet voice. He can speak in a loud voice! He can speak through children, dreams and visions. It does not matter how He speaks, just know that He speaks.

Will you trust the Holy Spirit today?

Will you become more obedient to the Holy Spirit than to the thoughts of your own mind and demands of the world?

Will you be willing to become a fool for God and do things that the Holy Spirit leads you to do that makes absolutely no sense?

Will you be willing to become a living vessel for the Lord and let Him use you?

I can not tell you the joy I felt from seeing God bless this woman today, the filling is worth more than gold.

I pray that this Bible study/testimony will bless you to the core of your soul and lift you from where you are to where God intends for you to be.

I had no intention on writing this much or doing a short comprehensive Bible study but it’s not my will but thy will be done.

Take this to heart Family and do not think for a moment that OAO (One Act of Obedience) is foolish or a waste of time. For you do not know how God is going to work things out in the lives of His people. You do not know how God is going to bless you for being a blessing. Be open and let the Holy Spirit use you for its one thing I know is a trust worthy saying and that is

                 OBEDIENCE IS BETTER THAN SACRIFICE!!!!

Be blessed and stay encouraged!!!!

Elder Patrick L. Adams

Broken Pieces
Wounded Spirit
2nd Timothy 4: 14- 18

14. Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm.  The Lord will repay him for what he has done.  15. You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.   16. At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me.  May it not be held against them.  17.  But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth.  18. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever Amen.   (NIV)  

This next coming series we will deal with broken spirits, hearts and wounds.  If you have ever been lied on then the Spirit is speaking to you.  If you have ever been physically, psychologically or mentally abused then the Spirit is speaking to you. If you have ever had a man or woman walk out of your life and leave your world in a mess then the Spirit is speaking to you.  If you have ever been hurt by a family member or closer than close friend then the Spirit is speaking to you. If you ever had people speak all manner of evil against you for no reason then the Spirit is speaking to you.  If you ever have been abandoned in your life; husband, wife, children, parents, friends, loved ones, then the Spirit is speaking to you.  If you hold or arbor ill thoughts towards another person then the Spirit is speaking to you.  If you hold a grudge or an alt against your brother or sister then the Spirit is speaking to you. If you have become a bitter person due to something someone has done or said to you then the Spirit is speaking to you. If you ever have felt alone, neglected, disrespected or abuse through a church affiliation then the Spirit is speaking to you.

I’m sure you can add more to the above list, however, let us go into these series with an open mind and a great expectation for the manifestation and the power of the Holy Spirit to reveal, heal, repair and clean the brokenness that exists in one form or another in all of us.

I ask that you will begin to pray now that Our Father will guard my heart and mind as I render myself to the task of delivering that of which the Father has to dispatch to His children. 

Alexander the Coppersmith could possibly be the same person the Apostle Paul is referring to in 1st Timothy 1: 20 as “having made shipwreck of the faith”. In any event its evident that Alexander has done a great deal of harm to Paul. Only in speculation can we gather the damage and manner of evil that was opposed upon the Apostle. In linking this verse with the verses that precede this one, it appears likely that Alexander gave testimony against him.  However, the Apostle is confident that the Lord will repay him according to his works.     (vs. 14)

Theological Questions and Answers:

Have you ever had anyone give false testimony against you?

How did you respond to the accusation/s?

Have you ever prayed for someone who persecuted you?

Did that situation/s make you become angry or bitter toward the individual/s?

(If it did) Have you forgiven them?

Paul awaits Timothy’s arrival in Rome to warn him against the treachery of Alexander, lest he, too, fall victim at the hands of this evil person.  It is not unlikely that Alexander greatly resisted Paul’s words by opposing his testimony at the public hearing. (vs. 15)

Theological Questions and Answers:

Have you ever had someone resist you because you presented a different view than they have?

Have you ever had a situation where people rejected your words because you professed your faith or proclaimed a blessing that was received from the Lord?

If so…….

How did you respond?

Paul is probably still thinking of the events of the past few days.  His first defense means the first opportunity which he was given to defend himself at this, his last trial. It does seem sad indeed that no one stood up to speak a word in behalf of this unheralded apostle whose writings have enriched and enlightened generations upon generations. No one would undertake his defense, but there is no bitterness in his heart for all that. Like Jesus, he prays that it might not be charged against them. (vs. 16)

Theological Questions and Answers:

Do you often find yourself dwelling on the negative things people have done to you in the past?

How does make you feel on the inside?

Have you ever been in a position where you had to defend yourself?

What do you think was Paul’s mindset during this ordeal?

How would you have handled this situation?

How did Paul deal with the situation?

Do you find there are times in life when no one will come to your defense?

How did that experience make you feel?

Paul may have been forsaken by men, but the Lord stood with him.  Not only so, but he was divinely strengthened to preach the gospel at his trial.  The message went forth without hindrance, and a Gentile law court heard the message of salvation. The word strengthened in this verse is not a common one; it is found only eight times in the NT.  It is used in Acts 9:22 at the beginning of Paul’s public ministry: he “increased…….. in strength.”  Here it is used again, but now at the end of his public ministry– a touching reminder of the sustaining strength of the Lord throughout His servant’s life. (vs. 17)

Theological Questions and Answers:

Have you ever felt forsaken by people?

Have you ever felt God has forsaken you? (be honest)

Have you ever felt God’s power in the midst of your weakness?

Were you ever able to do supernatural acts in a bad situation?

Have you ever been able to deliver an unpopular message in a hostile situation?

When the apostle said the Lord would deliver him from every evil work, he did not imply that he would be indefinitely delivered from execution.  He knew that the time of his death was drawing near (vs. 6).

Question:

What then did he mean?

Doubtless he meant that the Lord would save him from doing anything that would be a blot on the closing days of his testimony. The Lord would deliver him from recanting, from denying His name, from cowardice, or from any form of moral breakdown.  Not only so, but Paul was sure that the Lord would preserve him for His heavenly kingdom.  The heavenly kingdom refers not to Christ’s Millennial Reign on earth, but to heaven itself, where the rule of the Lord is acknowledged perfectly. (vs. 18)

Beloved, all our lives we have heard that two things are certain – death and taxes. But another thing needs to be added to that list of sure things – hurts. It is inevitable that as we go through life people will hurt us.

Sometimes they hurt us by accident…sometimes it is intentional. Sometimes they hurt us by what they do…sometimes it’s by what they say. Sometimes the wounds are superficial and heal quickly…at other times they are deep and the scars remain a lifetime. But mark it down somewhere…People Do Hurt Us!

One thing that is abundantly succint, in spite of what people do or say to us we should not  dwell on it or make a big stink about it.
Paul was deeply hurt…but he never felt sorry for himself…he never attempted to gain sympathy for himself…he harbored no anger or bitterness over what happened to him. Somehow, Paul had developed the ability to “remember the best and forget the rest in life.”

Now, if you or I had been the one hurt and telling the story, we would have gone into the greatest of detail. We would want everyone to know each minute little morsel of what was done…and how deeply we were hurt by it. But not Paul.

He simply related the incident to warn Timothy to watch out for Alexander. And by doing this he gives us a biblical example of how to respond to the hurts of life. And I hope we can learn from the life of Paul some truth that will help us at some point in our lives.

I’m sure I do not have to remind you of this point but, people can and often do hurt us… deeply and repeatedly. They exclude us from their group…fire us from our job…block us from a promotion…they criticize us unjustly…they say things that are harsh and cruel.

The person who wrote, “sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me” obviously never had said about him what I’ve had said about me…or probably what has been said to you – or about you. Because words spoken harshly and critically can wound deeply.

And when things like that happen we need to know what to do…we need to know how to respond. What do we do when people hurt us? I believe that this experience from the life of Paul will help us to know what to do and how to respond.

First, when others hurt us, we should not be surprised.

Why?

Hurts are a normal part of life. We should expect them. Second, we should not allow hurts to fester into bitterness and resentment. We must learn to remember the best and forget the rest. Thirdly, following Christ comes at a price.  Once you turn your life over to Christ people can and will turn on you and try to hurt you with hate filled and vile words. Finally, we shouldn’t try to get even with the one who has hurt us. We should leave vengeance to God.
The world is full of people who establish their worth by degrading others. They have pockets and purses full of put-downs…and they’ll give them out to anyone. But we can refuse to accept their insults…even when they are tossed at us in the guise of love.

By ignoring them, you’ll reduce tension…strengthen your relationships…and increase your joy. But just remember…hurts are a fact of life. They come to everybody. So when it happens to you – don’t be surprised!

The next thing we need to see is that when others hurt you – you can become better…or bitter. The sad thing is that often people become bitter and resentful. But as we look at Paul again as our example, we can see that he obviously forgave and no longer dwelt on it.

You’ll notice that Paul doesn’t elaborate on what Alexander did to him. He simply relates the experience as a warning to Timothy and then quickly moves on to other matters. There is no nursing or rehearsing of the evil deed on Paul’s part. There is no hint of bitterness or resentment in his heart.

One of the surest signs that a hurt has turned to bitterness and resentment is that we keep reviewing in our mind and rehashing in our conversation the wrong we have suffered. And there are plenty of people who do that.

But the effects of hate and bitterness are deadly. They are like acid. They do more damage in the vessel that stores it than the object they are poured on. Physically they
increase your blood pressure…emotionally they contribute to depression…spiritually they hinder worship and prayer…and socially they make you a sourpuss and unpleasant to be around.

Have you ever run across someone who was so down on life that they are painful to be around? How did they get this way? That negative spirit is nothing more than an outward reflection of the bottled up resentment they keep inside. And it doesn’t take very long for some people to get to this stage.

Carrying a grudge is a loser’s game. It is the ultimate frustration because it leaves you with more pain than you had in the first place. If you don’t forgive those who wrong you, then you allow them to hurt you more than once. They hurt you once…and they hurt you again every time you recall it. Your memory becomes a videotape in your soul that plays unending reruns of your pain.

The only way to heal the pain of a past hurt is to forgive the person who hurt you.

QUESTION:
But why is forgiveness so important?

When you release the wrongdoer from the wrong…it’s like cutting a malignant tumor out of your inner life. You set a prisoner free — yourself. And you’ll find it heals your memory as you change your perspective.

And it’s the only way to break the cycle of blame and pain in a relationship. As long as we don’t forgive, the cycle goes on and on. Now – forgiveness breaks the cycle…but it doesn’t settle all the questions about blame…and justice…and fairness.

In fact, it often evades those questions. But it does allow relationships to start over. So when others hurt you don’t allow their wrong to put in you a root of bitterness and resentment. Forgive the one who hurt you so you can heal and be whole again.

There is another point I would like to mention but I will save it for another time.

Family be kind to one another, love one another, be patient with one another and learn to forgive one another.  Our Father does not want us broken and all over the place.  He cares so deeply about how you are feeling and wants to wipe and dry the tears from your eyes. I beseech you today to allow the Father to begin the healing process in your life so that you may have peace in your home, peace in your mind and peace amongst one another.

Let God mend the pieces of your brokenness for He is the only One who has the blue print and master plan for your life.

Stay encouraged Family and remember to pray for me as I pray constantly for all of you.

humbly submitted by: a servant of God 

 Listen out every day for my Instant Words of Inspirations and join us live every Sunday Morning 8 to 9am est   @ www.wyimradio.com

                                      CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE WORD

 

Peace and Blessings
Elder Patrick L. Adams
Co-Host WYIM RADIO

Prayer

What is prayer?

According to the On-line Dictionary Prayer is:

(1)
a. A reverent petition made to God. or another object of worship.

b. The act of making a reverent petition to God,  or another object of worship.

(2)
An act of communion with God,  or another object of worship, such as in devotion, confession, praise, or thanksgiving:

(3)
A specially worded form used to address God, or another object of worship.

Basically, prayer is a conversation between you and God.  This communication opens up the line of dialogue which builds and strengthens your personal relationship with God. For all God requires of us is our obedience, faith, trust and to communicate with Him; have a personal relationship.

When we do this we will feel more confident to go to Him with any and every request and also; as in any relationship, when we communicate with God, He in return communicates with us. Giving us direction and purpose in our lives.

DEUTERONOMY 4:7

What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him?

This scripture gives you confidence in praying to the Lord, for you know the Lord draws closer to His people when they pray.
1st Samuel 12:23  

As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right.

Matthew 5:44

 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you

LUKE 6: 27 – 28

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

These scriptures teaches you to pray for more than yourself.  Also to pray for those who may not share your same views or ideals and that persecute you. Pray for your enemies.
2nd Chronicles 7: 14 – 15

if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.  Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.

This shows God’s promise to His people with a condition. If you do this then, I will do that. In other words, all we have to do is come to Him and be obedient to His commands.

Matthew 6: 5 – 9

“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

This scripture tells you a better way to pray.  You do not have to be loud, long, boisterous to pray, for God already knows what you want before you call on Him. You can be quiet and still and God will answer your prayer                                                                                                                                            ***THERE ARE THREE TYPES OF PRAYER, PERSONAL, CORPORATE, INTERCESSORY*** I will get into this a little later.

 

                 MODEL PRAYER TAUGHT BY JESUS TO HIS DISCIPLES

Matthew 6: 10 – 13

                                                    

 “This, then, is how you should pray:

“‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
 Give us today our daily bread.
 And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.

Jesus was showing His Disciples what they should pray for.
This scripture shows

(a) reverence to the Father (vs. 10)

(b) meeting our needs (vs. 11)

(c) forgiveness (vs. 12)

(d) deliverance & protection (vs. 13)

***Noteworthy to say this is not a command into what we should pray; for we should pray what is in our heart, but, it does suggest a guideline to the things we should incorporate into our daily prayer life. Remember when we read the Bible we have to look at a few things, the social climate, the times in which they were written in, the circumstances that were prevalent then, the audience of which the writer was writing to. At this particular point in the scripture, Jesus was teaching the Disciples on how to pray for the time of His departure was near. However, the word of God stands true and is the blueprint of how we should conduct our lives.***

MATTHEW 26:36

Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.”

This shows Jesus as the greatest leader that ever lived, using the art of prayer. As Christians yearning and striving to be “Christ”- like, we always should use Christ as the model into what we do. Now, what I”m about to say is not scriptural, but, if it’s good enough for Jesus; God Himself praying to Himself, to demonstrate then it’s good enough for me and is something that I should do as well.

LUKE 18: 1 – 8

Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. He said: “In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared what people thought. And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary.’

“For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or care what people think, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won’t eventually come and attack me!’”

And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”

This scripture teaches us to never give up praying. Jesus always taught in parables (short stories) to relay His point and to keep the interests of the audience He was addressing. This is a parable on prayer and the tenaciousness that is needed to strive for a daily prayer life. We must stay encouraged, empowered, motivated and purpose driven to pray.

LUKE 22:40

On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.

Jesus always taught in parables (short story) to relay a message to whatever audience He was addressing and most likely to keep their interest. This is another scripture where Jesus is teaching and encouraging the people about prayer through a parable.

ROMANS  8: 26 -27

 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

This scripture encourages us to understand that even if we do not know what to pray, all we need to do is humble ourselves and open our hearts and the Holy Spirit will intercede on our behalf and will belay the request to the Father.  What a wonderful God we serve, even if we can not utter a word, God still answers our prayers. Hallelujah!!!!!

1st THESSALONIANS 5: 16 – 18

 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

This scripture encourages us to pray without ceasing.

JAMES 5: 13 – 16

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

This scripture shows us the POWER we have in prayer and encourages us to pray for one another

Furthermore, you may encounter some folk who may ask you “why” do you pray? or why should I pray?

Here are some scriptures you can use has reasons for praying.

why should we pray?

A.  It builds up our faith.

Jude 20

B.  It humbles us.

2 Chronicles 7:14

C.   Prayer strengthens us.

Psalms 27:14
Psalms 138:3
Isaiah 30:15

D.  It gives us an inner peace.

Philippians 4:6-7
Isaiah 26:3

E.  Scripture says “ye have not because ye ask not.”

John 16:22
James 4:2

F.  We are exhorted to make mention of our needs before God (Philippians
4:6) so that, when the answer comes, God will get the glory for it (John
11:4142, 45).

Finally, to the three aspects of prayer.

Personal

Your communication with God done privately.  It is also succinct to mention that you can be in public and still pray.

Corporate

Done in a public place, such as church, where we pray for everyone and not just we ourselves.

Intercessory

Where you lift up a prayer on behalf of someone.

There is so much more information about prayer that is available however, I do not want to overwhelm you with to much to soon. I attempted to give an insight into each scripture that I have given in order that you may gain some understanding on what the passage is relaying on the principles of prayer.  Let me also beseech you to take all these scriptures I have provided and read them in whole; not in part, so that you may gain full understanding into what the Holy Spirit is trying to reveal to you.

For example I have given Romans 8:26 as one of the passage of scriptures relating to prayer.  I find it a great practice to read chapter 8 in its entirety to get full comprehensive understanding upon the scripture.

II pray that this information will be a comfort and guide to you as you increase your knowledge and relationship with God.

At anytime, you need further information on prayer please feel free send me a message on my page and I will do my best to aid you.  If I don’t know the answer I will seek and get the answer for you.

May God continue to grow and blossom your faith and may your relationship with Him grow stronger and stronger every second of the day.  May you feel the abundance of love and peace that can only come from the Father in every aspect of your life.  May God bless your going out and your coming in. May God place a special hedge of protection around you and your family and grant you success and peace.

May the grace of God and the sweet communion of the Holy Spirit rest upon you, now hence and forevermore.  Amen!

Grace and Peace

Elder Adams

Weekly Devotion – The Potter

Broken Vessels

Jeremiah 18: 1-12

1  This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: 2 “Go down to the potter;s house, and there I will give you my message.”  3 So I went down to the potter;s house, and I saw him working at the wheel.  4 But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him.  5 Then the word of the Lord came to me: 6 “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does?” declares the Lord.  “Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel.  7 If at any time I announce that a nation or kingdom is to be uprooted, torn down and destroyed,  8 and if that nation I warned repents of its evil, then I will relent and not inflict on it the disaster I had planned.        9 And if if at another time I announce that a nation or kingdom is to be built up and planted, 10 and if it does evil in my sight and does not obey me, then I will reconsider the good I had intended to do for it.  11 ” Now therefore say to the people of Judah and those living in Jerusalem, “This is what the Lord says:  Look! I am preparing a disaster for you and devising a plan against you.  So turn from your evil ways, each one of you, and reform you ways and your actions.  12 But they will reply, ‘It’s no use. We will continue with our own plans; each of us will follow the stubbornness of his evil heart.’ ”  (NIV)

In this passage the Lord is the potter; Judah (here called Israel) is the vessel. The spoiling of the vessel was not God’s fault but Israel’s. The clay is in God’s hand to do with it as He wishes–judgment or blessing.  God threatens disaster if the people don’t repent, but their answer is that they will walk according to their own plans. (vss 1-12)

Meaningful Change is Based Upon Something Much Stronger than Our Own Self-Will…

When we make the decision to change, we often do it because we are sick and tired of the life that we have been living. That choice is usually based on an earnest desire to do things differently; however, under our own strength, it doesn’t always work out that way.

God is in the change business. He has the ability to make all things work together for the good of those that place their faith in Him. God promises us that He can and will heal us through His Holy Spirit.

When most people hear the word recovery, they first think about overcoming addiction to drugs and alcohol. While recovery is an important part of the process of overcoming addiction, true recovery is for all of us who are tired of anything that may be destroying our lives. It is for all of us who want to stop living in grief, fear, anxiety, guilt and shame. It is for all of us who want to separate ourselves from the issues of the past. And it is for those of us who want to turn our will and our life over to a sovereign God who loves and forgives us.

Brokenness is the acknowledgment of grace, where self-will is superseded by God’s will. While righteousness demands payment for evil done, brokenness recognizes that payment can not be made regardless of our human effort and rejoices in the forgiveness of sin.

It is only in our brokenness that we can truly begin our relationship with God. We all must start from this same place. Nobody comes to the table with more than anyone else. God made everything, owns everything and has gifted each of us with the talents that we bring. Nobody can stand before God in an elevated or diminished position. God does not care if you have been homeless or are a millionaire; if you have been a Christian for years or are just seeking the truth today. This understanding allows us to come at the question of a relationship with Jesus Christ from a position of brokenness. We must overcome the denial of the things that are destroying our lives, our peace and our relationship with God. Without this honesty and brokenness, our knowledge means nothing.
OUR QUICK-FIX SOCIETY
In our “quick-fix & discard” throw-away oriented society, how do we usually treat things when they break?  We throw them away!  They are discarded!

Even newborn babies when not wanted we abort & discard.

My brothers and sisters I will stop here. We will continue our talk about brokenness next week; for I do not want to overwhelm you with to much information.  However, I want you to focus on some things in your life that are broken and need to be fixed. Remember God is the potter and only He knows how to mend, shape and put you back together.

Which side of the trail do you wish to walk in?  Do you desire to become obedient and resist the will to control your situation and turn it over to the potter?  This action will result in you walking on the trail of blessings and prosperity. Will we continue to be stubborn and do things under our own will, power and remain broken vessels? Which the end will result will leave you walking on the trail of destruction and curses. When will we learn to trust the potter and allow Him to spin us on His wheel of love, mercy, compassion and devotion in order that we will come out looking beautiful, polished and together. Sometimes, the potter has to squeeze the clay in order to manipulate the position that the clay should evolve too.  Sometimes the potter has to leave the clay to sit on the shelf until He is ready to place the finishing touches on it. No matter how long or short it takes, you can rest assure once the potter finishes molding, shaping, manipulating and caressing the clay, the end results are always something beautiful to behold.

Allow the potter to shape your brokenness today in order that you will be a work of art for the world to behold the goodness of the Lord.  Stay encouraged and be patient for He is not finished with you yet.

CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE WORD

Humbly submitted by: a servant of God

   

Listen out every day for my Instant Words of Inspirations              www.wyimradio.com

Live Broadcast of morning worship at WYIM Radio every Sunday morning 8 am 

Also follow me @ http://www.reverendpatrickadamswordsofinspirations.wordpress.com *Words of Inspirations
*Food for Thought segment every Monday night

Peace and Blessings
Elder Patrick L. Adams
Host WYIM RADIO

Food For Thought – Monday Morning Inspirations

Hey Family,

For those of you who may be new to my site, these segments on Food For Thought is a continuation from the Inspirational text messages I send out to the faithful 100+ members every Monday morning.

I created Monday Morning Inspirations because the Lord impressed upon my heart that His people need encouraging at the start of a work week.  We all have those dreaded Monday morning blues, where we just do not want to get up and get our day started.

Food For Thought was created because I can not possibly text all the information I would like to encourage the membership, so what better way to expound on the message than creating a website solely for the Inspiring and encouraging of God’s people. 

I pray that as you view and read the inspirational messages or the Bible Studies and devotions that are also posted on my website, that you will be encouraged to trust God for all your needs.

At any time you wish to contact me or wish to become a part of our text ministry feel free to leave me a message or reach me at ReverendPLAdams@gmail.com.

Be blessed in Jesus name.

                 

                           MONDAY MORNING INSPIRATIONAL

This is the Inspirational Text message that was sent out to the Family of over 100+ this morning.

Good Morning Family. Welcome to your Monday Morning Inspirations with your Host Elder Patrick L. Adams

 

No Failure!

I know that life can be difficult at times. There are troubles on every hand. Troubles with your children, work, home, marriages, employment, relationships, sicknesses and you may feel you are failing.”I’m here to tell you that Jesus said, In this world you will have troubles but fret not I have already overcome the world.” There is no failure in God! Stay encouraged!!!

 

FOOD FOR THOUGHT SECTION

Family I know that life has many complicated twists and turns to it. I know that situations, circumstances, obstacles and people in our lives can cause us stress, and undo duress. I understand that when sickness hits your body you may feel like giving up. It’s understandable with the financial strain and stress of a dying economy can cause you some discomfort and doubt about your future. I understand you want to give the best to your children and want them to succeed in life. I understand that you put all you had into your marriage and relationship to get little to nothing back in return. I understand it’s not fair that you were laid off and can not find work anywhere. I understand that you just can not seem to find peace anywhere.  And because of these pent-up, built up emotions you feel that you have failed somewhere in life. You see where you are  and can not fathom, how in the world you wound up in such a difficult and draconic situation.

I mean who can fathom, why does bad things happen to good people?  Who can fathom, you try to live and treat everybody right, but,  still seem to come short of the mark.  Who can fathom, when you pray and pray and pray, but it seems as if God does not hear or refuse to answer.  Who can fathom, that you’ve done all you can do but can’t help to feel like you’re a failure.

You may say, “look at my situation!”

My children are out of control, disobedient, hard to manage, disrespectful and don’t show the love and joy that they were raised up on.

My marriage, I gave him/her all I had to give and they turned around and cheated on me, have been abusive (physically or verbally) to me. They don’t show or say they love me. I’m unhappy staying in this marriage! There is no love! Somehow, I must have failed him/her.

Look how long I’ve been in this relationship giving, giving and giving. Giving my time, patience, peace, money, love and it is not appreciated. What more can I do?  How could I have failed in this relationship?

I go to work everyday, never been late, always put in a 100%. Work overtime with little to no complaint. Go above and beyond the call of duty. Why was I let go?  How could I have failed in my job, when I gave my best.

I’m a good person! I go to church every Sunday, treat people with respect. Why am I in this situation?  How could I feel like a failure?

I eat right and exercise, I don’t smoke or drink. How could I have this sickness that leaves me in such pain and discomfort?

Why is it I can not find help when I need it?  Why is it I can never have enough money to pay my bills and treat myself to something; at least once?

How could I have failed and relapse back to drugs and alcohol after being clean for so long?

Why am I failing in keeping my head above water?

Why has God failed me?

Family, I’m sure these feelings and emotions that I just outlined in the above paragraphs are miniscule to what people think and face on a daily basis.

However, I would like to encourage your hearts today and remind you that there is  No Failure in God!

God loves you unmeasurable and will never want to see you fail. Do not allow the enemy or “inner me“; you and your thoughts, block you from the truth.

Remember we all are human and will fail from time to time, no one you or I know is perfect. However, there is a distinct difference between those of us who belong to the family of God and those who are in the world.

Questions:

What is the difference?                                                                                                      If there is a difference, how does God prepare us for these failures?

The difference beloved and how God prepare us, we find here in Proverbs 24:16

PROVERBS 24:16

for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again,
but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes.

You may be thinking, Okay, I can understand that, but  what is the reassurance that God will indeed come to my rescue when I’m dwelling in the valley of despair and having thoughts of failing?

God always lifts you back up again!

God knows we’re going to fail every once in a while. Yet, He also stands by us and helps us get back on our feet. Is it easy to accept failure? No. Can it make us depressed and feel down? Yes. Yet, God is there to help us work through our anger and disappointment.

PSALM 40: 2 – 3

I waited patiently for the Lord;
And He inclined to me,
And heard my cry.
He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,
Out of the miry clay,
And set my feet upon a rock,
And established my steps.
 He has put a new song in my mouth—
Praise to our God;
Many will see it and fear,
And will trust in the Lord.

 

Sometimes Family you can despair because of so many things, from the world around you to the world inside you and your inability to deal with the issues that keep plaguing you.

Nevertheless rest in the truth of this, Godis real and His Word is true.  There is no failure in Him. His word and love reaffirms and reminds us of His faithfulness to us and His never-failing record.

This comes through various sources.  Sometimes in the testimonies of those living.  Sometimes in the testimonies of those who have walked this pathway before.  Sometimes in scripture and sometimes in life’s experiences the truth emerges time and again.

There is no failure in God.

That does not mean you won’t fail, or that you’re not allowed to fail.  It does mean that in God failure is not an option, only because of what the outcome and end product is through the process of ironing out the issues that hold people back.

Whatever happens this one thing is sure.  Where loved ones will fail. When circumstances appear so overwhelming and there is pressure to quit and accusations are made against you; which some may be true. God made no mistake into bringing you into being.  Neither did He make a mistake in the call on your life and the power of His gospelto do what no man could do in setting you free.  Where intellectuals mock your belief and the foolishness say it’s all imaginary and a figment of the imagination, the truth of faith remains and part of that truth assures believers of this insight that keeps holiness and righteousness worth pursuing.

There is no failure in God.

 

Until next time Family

Be encouraged!!!

***feel free to comment and let me know what you think about my blog, and what other topics or discussions you wish me to post or how I can make the blog better.  I am here for the benefit of spreading God’s kingdom to any and everyone who wishes to receive it.  Please let me know how I can be of assistance to you***

Peace and Blessings,                                                                                                      Elder Patrick L. Adams

Spiritual Clinic

Spiritual Check-up

Proverbs 17:22

22 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. (NIV)

Here  we learn that a person’s mental outlook has a lot to do with recovery from sickness or accident. A cheerful disposition is a powerful aid to healing. A broken, disconsolate spirit sap’s a person’s vitality. (vs. 22)

Beloved we have dealt briefly in the last two devotions about brokenness, today we look at a scripture that deals with making the spirit whole. This scripture deals with a solution that will help you heal a wounded spirit and a warning against a gloomy, downtrodden disposition.

A renewed mind that views life the way God sees it because that is the way life really is can keep you healthy; emotions that are brought under control so that they do not keep you off balance all the time, so subject to moods that no one knows whether you are going to be in a good or a bad mood: and, above all, a spirit that is in touch with the living God, that is not merely living for the visible things of life, but sees a relationship with God himself as the most important factor in life. That is godliness, balanced wholeness.”
Every human being in this world wants to be a whole person, wants to “get it all together,” we say. We want to find all the elements possible within ourselves and put them together so they function properly, and we become whole persons.

Simply put, Christ is the missing piece in life, he is the key to wholeness, to living a balanced and complete life, focused on God.

My Christian friends it’s time we go to our doctor; Jesus Christ, and get a spiritual check-up.  For emotions, if they go on checked for an unspecified amount of time can make you ill.  They can make hair fall out by the handful, bring on splitting headaches, clog nasal passages, make eyes and nose water with asthma and allergies, tighten the throat with laryngitis, make skin break out in a rash, even cause teeth to drop out.  Emotions can plague one’s insides with ulcers and other hard pressed complications.  Emotions that leads to a crushed spirit can give wives miscarriages, make husbands impotent and much more.  Beloved emotions can kill.

Today my brothers and sisters Christ wants to make you whole. Allow God to take those broken pieces in your life and prescribed a proper diagnosis that will make you better than you’ve ever felt before.  Are you suffering from depression?  Get a spiritual check-up.  Do you have bouts of loneliness?  Get a spiritual check-up.  Do you have fits of rage?  Get a spiritual check-up.

Come to my Father’s spiritual clinic and tell Him about your problems, I guarantee you’ll walk out much better than you walked in.  The best thing about it is there is no CHARGE, for Jesus already paid it all.

SPIRITUAL CHECK-UP THE BEST MEDICINE FOR WHATEVER AILS YOU!!!!

 

CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE WORD

Listen out every day for my Instant Words of Inspirations              www.wyimradio.com

Live Broadcast of morning worship at WYIM Radio every Sunday morning 8 am to 9 am

Also follow me @ http://www.reverendpatrickadamswordsofinspirations.wordpress.com

*Words of Inspirations
*Food for Thought segment every Monday night

Peace and Blessings
Elder Patrick L. Adams

Food For Thought – Monday Morning Inspirations

Hey Family,

For those of you who may be new to my site, these segments on Food For Thought is a continuation from the Inspirational text messages I send out to the faithful 100+ members every Monday morning.

I created Monday Morning Inspirations because the Lord impressed upon my heart that His people need encouraging at the start of a work week.  We all have those dreaded Monday morning blues, where we just do not want to get up and get our day started.

Food For Thought was created because I can not possibly text all the information I would like to encourage the membership, so what better way to expound on the message than creating a website solely for the Inspiring and encouraging of God’s people. 

I pray that as you view and read the inspirational messages or the Bible Studies and devotions that are also posted on my website, that you will be encouraged to trust God for all your needs.

At any time you wish to contact me or wish to become a part of our text ministry feel free to leave me a message or reach me at ReverendPLAdams@gmail.com.

Be blessed in Jesus name.

                 

                           MONDAY MORNING INSPIRATIONAL

This is the Inspirational Text message that was sent out to the Family of over 100+ this morning.

Good Morning Family. Welcome to your Monday Morning Inspirations with your Host Elder Patrick L. Adams

                                                 Peace

Let peace be your guide as you go about your day.  Don’t let something as precious as your peace be taken away by negative people or words!  Embrace the peace of God and enjoy your day. Stay encouraged!!!!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT SECTION

As a continuation from last week, I would like to reiterate the thought of peace being an integral part of your life. For without peace how do you properly function in life?

Some might say that you can function in life without peace and that may be the truth to their reality, however, I will say, it would be difficult to live life to the fullest without this component called “Peace“.

What do you mean?

I will ask you this question; and be honest with yourself when you answer, would you rather have money or peace?

I understand that the majority would probably be slick and say both, but the question is money or peace. Choose one.

Nonetheless, whatever conclusion you arrive at allow me to offer you peace.

Question:

Why Peace?

Well Family, you can have all the money in the world and that would not bring you happiness.  You can have all the finest clothes, jewelery, cars, big house that were purchased by your money, but will that truly bring you happiness.

I will explain it through scripture, for I can use some famous celebrities that we all know that had money and no peace but this is not about celebrities its about the choices we make and what we deem important.

In John 14:27 the word says this,

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid!”

In this text Jesus knows the time of fulfillment is near, so just as a person who is about to die usually writes a last will and testament in which they leave their worldly possessions to their loved ones. You’ll find here in this text the Lord Jesus Christ doing the same thing. However, He did not give material things but something that money could not buy which was peace, inward peace of conscience that arises from a sense of pardoned sin and reconciliation to God.  Christ purchased this with His own blood so its not giving sparingly or selfishly and for a short time. No, Christ gift of peace beloved is eternal!

So there is no dollar amount that can grant you happiness in this world, only the peace that surpasses all understanding will grant you such happiness.

Question:

How can I eat and pay my bills with peace?

Well Family that’s a good question and the answer is you can not. However, I will leave a few scriptures that will help you see it from a different perspective.

Matthew 6:33

But seek ye first the kingdom God, and His righteousness; and all these things will be added unto you.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding in all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path.

2nd Chronicles 7:14

If my people, who are called by my name, would just humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

In these three scriptures Family you will find the answer to paying your bills, feeding your family and achieving happiness.

Be encouraged Family and take these two final scriptures as an extra sedative, call God first and then if need be, you can email me in the morning.

“Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another” (Rom. 14:19). The Psalmist said: “Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it” (Psa. 34:14). To seek and pursue peace is to make every effort to do the things which lead to or bring about peace. Peace is wonderful and refreshing as a breath of fresh air on a spring day. We ought to make every effort to attain unto it.

Until next time Family

Be encouraged!!!

***feel free to comment and let me know what you think about my blog, and what other topics or discussions you wish me to post or how I can make the blog better.  I am here for the benefit of spreading God’s kingdom to any and everyone who wishes to receive it.  Please let me know how I can be of assistance to you***

Peace and Blessings,                                                                                                      Elder Patrick L. Adams

Food For Thought – Monday Morning Inspirations

Hey Family,

For those of you who may be new to my site, these segments on Food For Thought is a continuation from the Inspirational text messages I send out to the faithful 100+ members every Monday morning.

I created Monday Morning Inspirations because the Lord impressed upon my heart that His people need encouraging at the start of a work week.  We all have those dreaded Monday morning blues, where we just do not want to get up and get our day started.

Food For Thought was created because I can not possibly text all the information I would like to encourage the membership, so what better way to expound on the message than creating a website solely for the Inspiring and encouraging of God’s people. 

I pray that as you view and read the inspirational messages or the Bible studies and devotions that are also posted on my website, that you will be encouraged to trust God for all your needs.

At any time you wish to contact me or wish to become a part of our text ministry feel free to leave me a message or reach me at ReverendPLAdams@gmail.com.

Be blessed in Jesus name.

                 

                           MONDAY MORNING INSPIRATIONAL

This is the Inspirational Text message that was sent out to the Family of over 100+ this morning.

Good Morning Family. Welcome to your Monday Morning Inspirations with your Host Elder Patrick L. Adams.

                                                 Peace Be Still!

Just as Jesus spoke to the raging sea and said, “Peace be still!” Jesus speaks to your raging sea of troubles, trials, and sicknesses. Peace be unto you in broken relationships! Peace be unto you in financial difficulty! Peace be unto you with sickness! Whatever your situation, Jesus says today, “Peace Be Still!” Stay encouraged!!! 

FOOD FOR THOUGHT SECTION

How many times in lives beloved are we faced with the uncertainties of life? How often do we face many trials, tribulations, hardships, ailments, sicknesses, frustrations, disappointments, set backs, let downs, heart aches, heart breaks etc…?

So much to the point of giving up and giving in!

Well I have some encouraging and inspiring news for you!  God says to you today beloved, “Peace be still!”

Question:

How can I receive the peace of God?

One sure way of obtaining the peace of God Family, is by trusting Him and taking Him at His word!

Question:

Will this be easy?

Probably not!

However, we have a reassuring factor that God will still hold true to His promise even in the moment of doubt. Even when we are ready to cast in the towel and walk away, God seems to make a way out of no way.  Take for instance, the raging seas in Matthew 8: 23-27

“Then He got into the boat and His disciples followed Him. Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke Him, saying, “Lord, save us, we’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith! Why are you so afraid?” Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey Him!”

Notice in the text everybody was frantic and about to lose their minds but Jesus; for He was asleep. Secondly, the Disciples had the Son of God with them, but, it still did not stop them from fearing.(Sometimes beloved when the storms of life start raging, God is right there with us and we still do not recognize Him)

Thirdly, Jesus did not rebuke them for disturbing His sleep and for their doubt and fear. He simply made a statement, asked a question, and took care of business!

Lastly, we see the awesomeness of being in the presence of God in the midst of the storm. The Disciples had to ask, “what kind of man is this, that even the winds and the waves obey Him?”

What can be said  about this, other than, even when we don’t think God has the situation under control and is with us, He still can give us Peace in the midst of the storm.  Even when all chaos has broken out in our lives, He still can give us Peace in the midst of the storm. Even when we doubt his power and ability to save us. He does not condemn us but says, “Peace be still!“

What a wonderful God! What a wonderful peace!

Which leads me to ask you Family, those of you who are in the middle of a storm. Those of you who have sickness in the body. Those of you who are going through a terrible divorce or unrest in your marriage or relationship. Those of you who are having behavioral problems out of your children. Those of you who are having financial difficulty. Those of you who have or knows someone close that have bouts with drug, alcohol addiction. Those of you who lost employment or can not find employment. Those who are facing terrible and draconic trials, tribulations on every side. Those of you who are lonely and have bouts with depression.  I ask you Family?

                                                         Is there anything to hard for God?

I can give you my answer Family and tell you without hesitation, NO, there is nothing to hard for God!  However, instead of me trying to convince you and tell you my story.  I’d rather back it up with sure enough proof, that I pray encourages and blesses you tremendously!

                                                     JEREMIAH 32:27

Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?

                                                       GENESIS 18:14

Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto you, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.

Question:

What’s the proof that God would come through on His promise?

What was impossible about a woman giving birth?

Answer:

                                                        GENESIS 18: 10, 13, 15

Then the LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son.” Now Sarah was listening at the entrance to the tent, which was behind him. Then the LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Will I really have a child, now that I am old?‘ Sarah was afraid, so she lied and said, “I did not laugh.” But he said, “Yes, you did laugh.”

                                                         GENESIS 21: 1-2

Now the LORD was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did for Sarah what he had promised.

Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him.

So Family as you can see with Sis. Sarah event in her doubt and suspicion, even when she lied, God still did the impossible for her in her life.  And if He can do it for her, He can surely do the impossible for you!

Why?

Because God is the same today as He was yesterday and shall be forever more!

Need more convincing…..

                                                  Matthew 19:26

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

                                                    Luke 1:37

“For nothing is impossible with God.”

Family I want you to know this day, that there is hope for your hopelesness! For God is speaking to you right now and is saying to your situation, “Peace Be Still!”

Try Him today Family and receive the Peace that surpasses all understanding!  Trust Him and receive the greatest gift that a person can obtain on earth; which is love and peace.  For the enemy does not want your money, fancy clothes, nice car or big house.  No, Family the enemy wants your peace.

I will leave you with these comforting words that comes from Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Christ says, “Peace I give you, Peace I leave you, not as the world gives but give I unto you!”

Until next time Family

Be encouraged!!!

***feel free to comment and let me know what you think about my blog, and what other topics or discussions you wish me to post or how I can make the blog better.  I am here for the benefit of spreading God’s kingdom to any and everyone who wishes to receive it.  Please let me know how I can be of assistance to you***

Peace and Blessings,                                                                                                      Elder Patrick L. Adams

Food For Thought-Monday Morning Inspirations

Hey Family,

For those of you who may be new to my site, these segments on Food For Thought is a continuation from the Inspirational text messages I send out to the faithful 100+ members every Monday morning.

I created Monday Morning Inspirations because the Lord impressed upon my heart that His people need encouraging at the start of a work week.  We all have those dreaded Monday morning blues, where we just do not want to get up and get our day started.

Food For Thought was created because I can not possibly text all the information I would like to encourage the membership, so what better way to expound on the message than creating a website solely for the Inspiring and encouraging of God’s people. 

I pray that as you view and read the inspirational messages or the Bible studies and devotions that are also posted on my website, that you will be encouraged to trust God for all your needs.

At any time you wish to contact me or wish to become a part of our text ministry feel free to leave me a message or reach me at ReverendPLAdams@gmail.com.

Be blessed in Jesus name.

                 

                           MONDAY MORNING INSPIRATIONAL

This is the Inspirational Text message that was sent out to the Family of over 100+ this morning.

Good Morning Family. Welcome to your Monday Morning Inspirations with your Host Elder Patrick L. Adams.

                                              Let Freedom Ring!

Just as Christ proclaimed freedom bondage and sin! Just as Dr. King proclaimed freedom from societal injustices! I proclaim freedom to you!  Let freedom ring from people, places and things that oppress you!  Let freedom ring in your homes, schools, jobs and churches!  For whom the Son has set free is free indeed!

Stay encouraged!!! 

                             FOOD FOR THOUGHT SECTION

Within the streams of freedom its succinct to mention there will be a struggle, some suffering and frustrations attached! No where in the history of the world will you see freedom coming about without a struggle happening first.

Therefore my brothers and sisters we must understand in order to be free from those things that may oppress, depress, regress or harm our progress, we first must come to the awareness a struggle must start.

We have seen throughout history many victories coming about after a struggle had commenced.  The key to overcoming your struggles, frustrations, sufferings is your faith.

Now one definition of faith says,  Faith is confidence or trust in a person or entity. Depending on the religion, faith is belief in a single god or multiple gods or in the doctrines or teachings of the religion. Informal usage of faith can be quite broad, including trust or belief without proof, and “faith” is often used as a substitute for “hope”, “trust” or “belief”   (Wikipedia, Encyclopedia)

The Biblical definition says that “Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.”  (Hebrews 11:1)

You can not be free or obtain freedom over adversity if you lose hope and courage.

One way I can help you in seeing victory and freedom during your struggle is to introduce you to a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Church in Rome!

In this letter Paul assures the Roman Church of present sufferings and future glory.

We pick up these encouraging words in the 8th chapter of Romans starting at verse 18 concluding at 27.

                         ROMANS 8: 18 – 27

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope thatthe creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?  But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

  In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.  And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

     There are many important points and remedies to overcoming adversity (struggles, sufferings, frustrations), Paul suggests here in this text, however, I want you to read the entire chapter, including going back to chapter 7 in order to get the abundance of wealth, joy and freedom that permeates throughout this letter.

However, I would like to point out, written within these verses we can find hope in any and every situation.  We see that it is God’s intent that creation be liberated from bondage and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. (vs 20)

We as the children; son’s and daughters of the most high God, are not destined to be downtrodden, in bondage and not being able to praise his Holy name.

Question:

If that is the case, why do we have to suffer and go through the struggle?

Well beloved if you look in vs 20 you will see because of the first sin of Adam and Eve we have been subjected to the irregularities of bondage.

Nonetheless, the scriptures gives us hope.

Vs. 18 tells us that even though we suffer, that is not remotely has great has the joy we will receive when Christ comes back to claim us for his own. We also sees that the Holy Spirit is right there with us in the midst of our struggles and is there interceding and guiding us to the truth. (vs 26)

In all my brothers and sisters know that your Freedoms are tied into your struggles.  The bigger the struggle you overcome, the more freedom and confidence builds up inside of you.  But you can not lose hope in the ability of God to rescue you from the storm.

Using our Biblical definition of Faith (Hebrews 11:1), we see that very same scripture spoken of in vs 24 of Romans 8.

Questions:

Who or What is holding you captive?

Who or What has you in bondage?

Is your happiness tied into only the good times?

Can you see the glory of God in any circumstance?

I would continue on, but, I believe I’ve given you enough to chew on for right now. Always remember God knows what you’re going through and how much you can bear.  As God has waited patiently for His creation to turn back to Him, let us wait patiently in hope, for the freedom that the Holy Spirit gives to each believer.

We are all Sons and Daughters of God, we must claim our liberation and freedom from the forces that bind.

I encourage you to turn loose any and everything that is stopping you from maintaining your peace, love and joy and give them to the Lord.

Let freedom ring with your children, for you are the caregiver to them; they do not control you. If they do not listen to you with their natural ear, you pray for them and allow the Holy Spirit which the text just eloquently spoke about, speak to them in their spiritual ear.

Let Freedom ring in your homes!                                                              Speak peace in your house, let the enemy know that as for me and my house we shall serve the Lord!

Let Freedom ring on your jobs!                                                                        Let them know you are a child of God and that no job is going to stop you from providing and taking care of your family. You’re grateful for a job but not a slave to a job.

Let Freedom ring in your communities!                                                         Let your assembly persons, council members, town legislators know, that as a child of God you will not be treated any old kind of way.  For the Bible says, “you are the head and not the tail.”

Let Freedom ring in the school system!                                                       Let the schools chancellor’s, superintendents, principals know that our children are a gift from God and we want them equipped with all the greatest educational tools that helps provides them for a brighter future.

Let Freedom ring in our Churches!                                                             Help encourage and remind those that God has placed in authority over His people, that “on this rock He shall build His temple and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”

Go now children of God and let the world know that you’re no longer going to confirm to the pattern of this world , but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.

Freedom and liberation is a God giving right to all who believe, but, it comes through a struggle!

Be encouraged Family, God is in total control and if we study and read His most precious word, we will find our freedom.  If we get into a relationship with God we will find our freedom.  If we trust and believe in God we will find our freedom. If we have faith the size of a mustard seed that mountain of bondage will be removed and we will find our freedom.

God is a liberator and in His word there is freedom!

I’m a witness of the benevolence and freedom found in the Lord, for my focus scripture and statement is this!

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” Luke 4: 18-19

Why don’t you receive the goodness of the Lord today as you read this post!  Won’t you receive the liberation and freedom found in Christ!

Remember Family, “For whom the Son sets free is free indeed!”

Until next time Family

Be encouraged!!!

***feel free to comment and let me know what you think about my blog, and what other topics or discussions you wish me to post or how I can make the blog better.  I am here for the benefit of spreading God’s kingdom to any and everyone who wishes to receive it.  Please let me know how I can be of assistance to you***

Peace and Blessings,                                                                                                     Elder Patrick L. Adams