No Gift Left Behind: God Will Use You for His Glory in Due Season

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Jun 18, 2019

Here I Am, Lord. Use Me.

Who needs stamps anymore? Well, I did. I had some business mail to send and I needed a stamp… just one. Now, I could’ve gone to the post office or even to the ATM. Did y’all know that ATM machines sold stamps? Well, they do! But since I only needed one, I felt that would’ve been a waste. Anyhoo…

I had to have this envelope in the mail before the end of the business day. My mom came in town that same day and as she was settling in, I thought to ask her if she had a stamp. She checked her purse and pulled out this old stamp book with one lonely stamp still attached to the paper.

As she looked up at me, she said, “Do you know how long I had this stamp? It must’ve been just for you.” Of course I didn’t, but apparently, she’d had it almost to the point of forgetting, until I asked her for it. The last stamp in the book, set aside just for me to use.

No Purpose Wasted

See, I had a hard deadline to meet with that envelope. Yes, I could’ve gone and purchased an entire book of stamps, but I didn’t need that many. My mom had just what I needed.

When God provides, He never over gives. There is always a measure that is just right for you. That stamp was proof… similar to the gifts that God gives us.

If He were to give us too much, we wouldn’t be able to handle it all and something would be forgotten or go unused. If I had purchased a book of stamps, the remaining 19 would have gone unused. They would have stayed in my wallet until the cost of postage increased – annoying.

I want you to understand that the gifts within you are all meant to be used. There is nothing in you that God doesn’t know about or have plans for. There is purpose in you that you may have almost forgotten about, but He hasn’t. And, know that He has you set aside so that He may work through you as you utilize those gifts.

I know you have a lot going and you have deadlines to meet. I know you may feel like you’ve got too much going on to be used, but God didn’t make a mistake with you. You know just one stamp can take a letter across the country, right? He gave you that one “stamp” to let you know that the amount that He gave you will take you far. Here are a few things to remember when you feel short on postage:

God created you so He knows just what to do with you. “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Jeremiah 29:11
He fully intended to give YOU that gift. Sometimes we question if God really meant to choose us for a thing because of our feelings of inadequacy. We may even know of others that seem more fit for the job than we are. “For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.” Romans 11:29
Your gifts will bloom in perfect time. It may seem like God is using everyone else in their gifts and calling – and you’re left behind. Know that there’s an appointed time for your gifts to shine and glorify God. “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end, it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” Habakkuk 2:3
Every gift you have is just right because God created it. Let Him show you how to use your gift and where to take it. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” James 1:17

Don’t stop your journey, God has put His stamp of approval all over you. He has already equipped you to use each gift He’s given you. Please don’t shy away from what is in you, there are people counting on your obedience.

“Emanuel” in Theaters June 17 & 19: The Power of Forgiveness Over Hate

By

Editorial Staff

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Jun 14, 2019

The Heart of Mother Emanuel Lives On in the Community

Four years after the devastating tragedy in Charleston, South Carolina that shook the nation, Arbella Studios, in association with JuVee Productions and Unanimous Media, presents an SDG and Fiction Pictures Production, “EMANUEL,” opening in movie theaters nationwide through Fathom Events on June 17 and 19 only. Documenting the events of June 17, 2015, “EMANUEL” is a powerful documentary that examines how faith, hope and forgiveness healed a devastated community after the heinous church shooting at Emanuel A.M.E., carried out by white supremacist Dylan Roof.

Executive produced by Stephen Curry’s Unanimous Media, Viola Davis and Julius Tennons’ JuVee Productions and directed by Brian Ivie (The Drop Box), the documentary compellingly weaves the history of race relations in Charleston, the significance and impact of Mother Emanuel Church, and the hope that somehow emerges in the aftermath. Featuring intimate interviews with survivors and family members, it is a poignant story of justice and faith, love and hate and examines the healing power of forgiveness.

“The documentary highlights how a horrible tragedy can bring a community together, and spreads an important message about the power of forgiveness,” says Stephen Curry, Executive Producer and co-founder of Unanimous Media. “Stories like this are the reason we created Unanimous and entered the entertainment space. I hope the film inspires others like it does me.”

“We, along with the country, grieved each family’s loss,” expressed Executive Producers Viola Davis and Julius Tennon of JuVee Productions. “Yet, miraculously, from this devastation we witnessed tremendous benchmarks of humanity. The survivors found the courage to love in the face of hate.”

The film was made in direct partnership with the City of Charleston and all ten families affected by the tragedy. The producers of EMANUEL will donate their profits from the film to the survivors of the shooting and the families of the victims.

For more information on EMANUEL, please visit, www.emanuelmovie.com.

Follow EMANUEL, Arbella Studios and Fathom Events for updates on ticket information, group screenings and more:

Facebook and Instagram – @emanuelmovie
Facebook and Instagram – @arbellastudios
Facebook and Instagram – @fathomevents

About Arbella Studios

Arbella Studios is an LA-based film production company dedicated to telling stories of faith and social justice. Founded by writer and director Brian Ivie, Arbella produces mission-minded documentary and narrative content with the purpose of inspiring change and hope in audiences around the world. Arbella is also behind the documentary, The Drop Box, released in 2015. Visit www.arbellastudios.com for more information on the production company.

About Fathom Events

Fathom Events is the leading event cinema distributor with theater locations in all top 100 DMAs® (Designated Market Areas) and ranks as one of the largest overall theater content distributors. Owned by AMC Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: AMC); Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK); and Regal Cinemas, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group (LSE: CINE.L), Fathom Events offers a variety of unique entertainment events in movie theaters such as live performances of the Metropolitan Opera, top Broadway stage productions, major sporting events, epic concerts, the yearlong TCM Big Screen Classics series, inspirational events and popular anime franchises. Fathom Events takes audiences behind the scenes for unique extras including audience Q&As, backstage footage and interviews with cast and crew, creating the ultimate VIP experience. Fathom Events’ live Digital Broadcast Network (“DBN”) is the largest cinema broadcast network in North America, bringing live and pre-recorded events to 975 locations and 1,578 screens in 181 DMAs. The company also provides corporations a compelling national footprint for hosting employee meetings, customer rewards events, and new product launches. For more information, visit www.FathomEvents.com.

Unleashing Your Prophetic Gifting

By

Tamsyn Cornelius

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Jun 14, 2019

Activate Your Prophetic Calling

I recently attended the School of Prophetic Trainers at The Mission Church in Vacaville, California. Along with a group of about 150 prophetic voices from around the world (some as far afield as Russia, Cayman Islands and our own team from South Africa), we gathered to hear from God and receive training in prophetic activation. What an amazing time of hearing from the Father and connecting with fellow believers from across the globe.

I wanted to share some of the lessons I have learned along this amazing journey diving deeper into the prophetic call of God on my life. Some of these are simple life applications based on the Word of God that you can test for yourself. Others may challenge you to dig deeper into your relationship with God and find the answers you need in Him directly.

Is prophecy still relevant today?

God has been speaking from the very beginning of creation. His voice radiated over the waters and gave life to all of humankind (Genesis 1). His voice and the spoken word of God continues to resonate over the earth today and there is nothing closer to God’s heart than His longing to connect, speak, and commune with us as His children. If only we would take the time to listen…

In brief, prophecy is our ability to recognize the voice of God and speak out that which He is saying. It is often about dying to ourselves and our own voice, and all about tuning into God and connecting to the voice of the Father to find guidance, comfort, strategy, direction, and more from Him.

As the church today, we need only open our Bibles and find every resource to fully fathom the very basics of prophecy. Between the pages of each book, the Father spoke – and continues to speak; He called – and continues to call – men and women to be messengers and prophetic voices in their generation. As such, prophecy remains as relevant to us today as it did at the very beginning of creation.

God’s Prophetic Gift to Us

The Bible itself is a prophetic gift from God to the church today. Here we can find solutions for many of life’s problems, guidance for righteous living, and the skills needed to tune out the world and tune into the voice of God. In fact, the Bible is divine and God-breathed – it’s the very voice of God manifested to us.

The life of Jesus, too, is a living prophesy fulfilled. In fact, Jesus’s resurrection is God’s ultimate prophetic act, saving us from our own sins and granting us access into the family of God.

The Prophecies of God are True

Bible scholars have noted up to 300 old testament prophecies which spoke about the birth, ministry, and resurrection of Christ – long before he was ever birthed into the flesh. How amazing that God would share the hidden mysteries of His own Son during an era way before He was ever called to take our place on the cross!

Through Jesus, God gives us access to sit at His table and hear from Him. Prophesy is, therefore, a free gift, given to us by our Heavenly Father as a way of hearing and receiving from the Lord.

It may manifest in various ways – sometimes we receive new revelation in the Word of God, which as mentioned, is a prophecy in and of itself. Sometimes we hear words spoken to us – either audibly or directly into our hearts. Sometimes the Lord may give us a picture, a song, a vision, or a dream that speaks to us. Like Joseph who dreamed that he would someday reign over his brothers (Genesis 37:5); or Samuel who heard the audible voice of God calling him in the night (1 Samuel 3). In whichever way the Lord chooses to speak to us, we need to be open to hearing from Him and receiving what He has to say.

If in doubt, or if the voice of God seems hazy to you today, open your Bible. “For the word of God is alive and exerts power and is sharper than any two-edged sword and pierces even to the dividing of the soul and spirit, and of the joints and their marrow, and is able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart,” (Hebrews 4:12).

What can you do to activate the prophetic in your life?

First, spend time getting to know your Father. Make time with God a priority and get to know His voice. He is always speaking, but often, we do not take the time to even recognize His voice.
Secondly, know your rightful place as a child of God. We may not all be called prophets, but we have all been called to prophesy and to hear from God. Don’t be afraid to ask God the questions you have on your heart and receive the answers you need from Him.
Next, ask God to increase your prophetic gifting. Perhaps you have been too afraid to step out and receive from the Lord. But, one Word from God can change your life forever.
Practice and listen for the Voice of God. Ask God to speak to you today. Be open to the many ways He can and will communicate with you.
Stir the gift. Ask God for more and practice tuning into the Father’s voice daily. Ask Him to speak to you in new ways and you may be amazed by the results. “Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy,” (1 Corinthians 14:1).

Batter Up: Trust God Through the Curveballs of Life

By

Drea Frost

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Jun 13, 2019

You Are SAFE!

Imagine yourself at a Major League Baseball game on a perfectly beautiful, warm day. Picture the pitcher and the batter taking their places on the field.

The pitcher probably already has in his mind the type of ball he wants to pitch to the batter. Undoubtedly, the batter is trying to prepare himself for the pitch coming his way, but he still has no idea what the pitcher has in mind to throw. If you will, imagine the pitcher is life and the batter represents us trying to figure out which way, how fast and what type of throw life will pitch our way.

Expect the Unexpected

There is no doubt that life can throw some curve balls that you just weren’t expecting. It can come at you so fast and so hard that you don’t even get a chance to swing at it, and if you do try to swing, most of the time you will miss, terribly.

The current state of the world is a direct reflection of curve balls. Almost every day, there is a new headline or story that completely catches you off guard or even shocks you to disbelief. Ultimately, it should bring us all to a place of prayer for the world.

I believe this is why our playbook instructs us to not allow our hearts to be troubled.

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14:1 KJV)

Jesus reassures us that if we believe (trust) in Him, then we will be alright, no matter the unpredictable pitch(es) that may come our way.

Life is never perfect, neither is it predictable, but our playbook tells us over and over again to TRUST God. I’ve never seen the playbook say, “figure it out!” Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto to your own understanding but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path.”

1. Try not to focus so much on the curveball, but focus on trusting that God knew the pitch was coming, so He will show you how to maintain and successfully deal with the unexpected style and speed of the pitch!

2. Don’t be troubled by what you see and hear. Guard your eye and ear gates – use wisdom! Stay focused on Him. Pray for clarity and peace!

3. When you feel completely defeated and/or depleted, God can and will restore your soul. Psalm 23:3 “He restores my soul…” Trust Him to take good care of you.

4. Each and every one of us will have to face something in our life that doesn’t feel, look, or seem good….it’s just a part of life! I’m so glad our playbook lets us know in Romans 8:28 “….We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

5. Keep walking and living on purpose! You have a purpose that can only be fulfilled by you in the earth. Don’t be discouraged by the curve balls; continue to be encouraged, motivated, and inspired!

Christian Dating After Divorce: Dispelling Myths, Encouraging Hearts

By

Jeannette Tyson

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Jun 12, 2019

The Season of Dating After Divorce

Since my divorce years ago, I’ve learned so much. I want to share with other teammates out there who may be anxious or unsure about what to expect when you begin to date again.

I really want to dispel some of the myths as well as offer encouragement. Most of what we’re told has to do with being patient while keeping God first, healing from hurt, taking enough time to become whole, and even how to spot that Ephesians 5 man or Proverbs 31 woman.

All of these topics are great and certainly do provide insight, but there is so much more mentally and interpersonally that you’ll be growing through.

I truly believe that every encounter should either teach us something about ourselves, inspire us, or give us the opportunity to teach or inspire others. God is intentional and every meeting has purpose – whether it turns into a relationship or not.

Let’s start with a few mythbusters around dating after divorce.

1. Fear (of dating after divorce) means your not ready.

In the Word, we find many examples of God giving instructions to His people and them being fearful of what He told them to do. Moses is a prime example of this, who in Exodus 3:11 says, “Who am I to go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?”. Verse 12 says, “So He (God) said, “I will certainly be with you…”

Confidence does not always confirm instruction. Jonah is another example of this truth. Most of the time we fear because we think past mistakes may repeat themselves. It’s not easy to trust after losing in love. Sometimes, being alone feels like an easier option. Often the best way to get over a fear is to actually face it head on and just put yourself out there. I say this all the time – discernment is key. Seek God to find out whether your fear is just nerves or an actual cause to pause.

2. Being whole means I’m perfect.

Not so. Perfection, as in maturity, is a lifelong goal that all of us work daily to achieve. But, there will still be some things that you learn about yourself and ways you’ll change even after you get into a relationship or marriage. This doesn’t mean you weren’t whole.

In fact, I believe there are some lessons you won’t be able to learn until you get into a relationship, especially marriage. There are some things that only a certain level of intimacy can reveal in you. Don’t let those things freak you out, but thank God that you are able to grow from it.

3. I met someone who has the total package – s/he must be the one.

I wish I could say that’s true, but it’s not. More than once I have met great men for whom God simply said “No.” It doesn’t mean that there’s anything wrong with them or you – they might check all the boxes and still not be the one.

As I said before, I believe every relationship has purpose. Furthermore, everything in our life – where we live, what we do, our upbringing – all those things were tailor-made to create the right climate for us to grow and produce the right character and spirit we need to become all God created us to be.

That great individual may not be the one to aid us in our journey to destiny and we have to accept that. For example, when the prophet looked at David’s brother, Eliab, and said, “surely this is the Lord’s anointed” – he wasn’t. The Lord chose David instead (1 Samuel 16:6-7). We have to submit ourselves to God in every decision to make sure we stay in His will for our lives.

So You’re Ready to Date After Divorce?

Okay Team, here are a few tips for those who are dating after divorce or considering a relationship or marriage.

1. Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water.

We have to acknowledge that our past may have lowered our tolerance level and made compromise and oneness difficult. This is especially true for anyone who has been single for a long time. Yes, we should learn from our mistakes, but we still have to be patient and give love time. This is a lot easier said than done, but if you lean on the Lord and acknowledge Him in all your ways, He will direct your path (Proverbs 3:6).

2. Love is not always pleasant, it’s simply a decision!

I can’t stress this enough. Love has little to do with feelings. There will be times that loving someone doesn’t feel good. This is across the board even with our children. Make the decision to commit and extend grace and mercy.

3. Trust yourself.

Simple, but not always easy. Remember the Holy Spirit is living in you and He will instruct you (John 14:26). Keep your heart and mind open to Him and don’t allow yourself to become jaded.

4. Remain true to you.

I see so many people get lost in love and forget their own passions and purpose. This is a surefire way to get burnt out. I heard Bishop Jakes say once, “Interests make you interesting”. Never forget that you are unique, fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God.

Dating is exciting, so enjoy yourself as you begin meeting new people. I pray for true love and companionship for those who desire it. Remember:

Don’t be afraid to date again. God has not given you the spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7)
Don’t be discouraged in your single season. Get out and socialize, try new things and don’t let your heart become bitter.
When you begin dating, keep God at the center of the relationship.

Crucify Him: Is the Church Persuading the World to Destroy Jesus, Again?

By

Kim Brightness

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Jun 11, 2019

Is the Christian Church a Brand You Can Trust?

When we show our steadfast commitment to God, we become effective brand ambassadors for Jesus Christ.

Part of our brand behavior is not only our worship and praise – Hosanna! – but sanctification through the Word of God (John 17:17). We are constantly purifying thoughts, habits, and beliefs that don’t align with God’s will.

Sanctification or being holy may sound deep (and painful) to some, but it only means that we are cleaning our temples to be an acceptable home for the Holy Spirit.

Can the world see evidence of our practice of sanctification today?

The Current State of the Christian “Brand”

Let’s be perfectly honest. The same hot water the Pharisees and Sadducees found themselves in is where many professed Christians are today – in a boiling pot of Hypocrisy.

In Matthew chapter 23, standing before church leaders and the multitude, Jesus calls the scribes and Pharisees “hypocrites” eight times! Do you think Jesus was a little upset and fed up?

Church leaders of Jesus’ day had done a poor job in exemplifying love, justice, and the basic tenets of God’s will and order. And, they failed to meet the mark while blatantly raising the bar higher for others. Sound familiar? Church members suffered under heavy expectations (Matthew 23:4), while church leaders were barely expected to lift a finger.

In the end, these same church leaders were the ones who persuaded or convinced the people to crucify Jesus over Barabbas.

Let’s take a brief look at the heart of these leaders and why they sought to kill Jesus.

Historical Perspective: What Did Jesus Do to You, Church Leaders?

First, Jesus is a problem for anyone with a pride-filled, un-surrendered heart. The word of the Lord is clear and irrefutable that our fleshly desires cannot overrule Christ. Take a look at what stony hearts in the church produce – see any similarities today?

Ahh, the consistent root of all evil – the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10) – had infected church leaders’ hearts and caused them to err from the faith. Shall we be so naïve to think that the elders and priests weren’t “in bed” with the very money changers Jesus kicked out of the temple? God forbid.

This was one of Jesus’ first tasks as the revealed Messiah – to transform the temple from a den of thieves to a house of prayer (Matthew 21:13). Jesus cared about His house and the people’s needs. Treat everyone with love and fairness.

How are we doing today?

Have we shunned the misuse of money or financial bondage tactics over God’s people?
Have church leaders served the people more than pass the offering plate?

If you want to disturb a prideful person with a title and position of power, let someone acknowledge another person over them.

When the children greeted Jesus in the temple after ‘Palm Sunday’, crying “Hosanna to the Son of David” (Matthew 21:15), church leaders were indignant – sorely displeased.

The handwriting was on the wall. The church had accumulated political power and it was all about to crumble – if Jesus wasn’t handled. The scribes and Pharisees would no longer monopolize the spotlight, and would now have to compete with Jesus for honor, respect, and praise from the people.

How are we doing today?

Have church leaders kept the focus on Jesus Christ, and egos out of the pulpit?
Have church leaders convinced the people to choose Barabbas-like figures for political gain?

How Can Jesus Be Destroyed, Again?

If Jesus died once for our sins (1 Peter 3:18) and is now seated at the right hand of God (Acts 2:32-33) – how in the world can He be destroyed or crucified again?

The answer goes back to the Christian “brand”.

When we profess Christ, quote scriptures on our social media pages, try to tell everyone else how they should live – and our lives bear no godly fruit, we make a mockery of Jesus Christ.

As such, we destroy or crucify the authenticity of Jesus Christ and the promises in the word of God.

When we fall away from the truth of God, after having professed Christ and tasted of the Word, we crucify our Lord and Savior over again (Hebrews 6:6). The shame brought on Christ not only kills your witness, but also the witness of faithful believers who practice sanctification. You are making the job of Team Jesus – to go and make disciples – that much harder.

Make up your mind and choose. If you’re going to serve God, serve Him. If you’re not, don’t lead others to think that you are. The blood-stained banner of Jesus Christ is too precious for fair-weather soldiers.

Church leaders, remember there’s a hefty price to pay for misleading the people and scattering God’s flock (Jeremiah 23:2). Repent from this evil and recommit to your calling – make your calling and election sure.

To those servants of God and Christian brand ambassadors, know that we are contenders for the faith in Jesus Christ (Jude 3). We fight for this. We’re loyal to Christ. Be serious about your walk with the Lord.

Spiritual Detox: 5 Ways to Cleanse Your Mind and Spirit

By

Alecia M. White

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Jun 7, 2019

Out With the Bad

I’ve seen and heard of many people participating in different kinds of “lifestyle changes” and diets. One, in particular, is the detox.

Now, detoxing is designed to push all of the bad stuff out of your body as you put some sort of good stuff in its place. Typically, detoxing consists of one or a few specific things. Some detox regimens only allow people to juice and intake their nutrients by drinking them. There are some that only allow soups; I’ve even heard of a cayenne pepper detox, which has cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and a couple other things in it. I’ve even done a detox that required me to drink a protein shake, 3 times a day, while only eating one meal.

Again, the one thing they all have in common is that they regulate the body by causing it to get rid of toxins.

Does Our Spirit Need a Spiritual Detox, Too?

Speaking of a detox… what if we treated our spiritual bodies with a detox every now and again? I had this thought one day while scrolling through social media and seeing all of these diets and fads on display.

We partake in all kinds of diets, exercises, and detoxes to get this flesh right – what about what matters most, our spirits? Nope, I am definitely not implying that your physical health is not important. In fact, our Playbook tells us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Ghost. “What? Know ye not that your body is the temple o the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19). But, I am saying that your spiritual health should be just as, if not more, important.

We must include spiritual health in that “self-care” that we rave so much about, right?

Often, we allow so much into our spirits without even realizing it. Spiritual toxins can be taken in by scrolling on social media, bad communication, no communication at all (and the thoughts that arise because of that), stressful environments (home, work, etc.), gossip, and all kinds of other ways. Just like we make it a point to release the “bad stuff” from our bodies, we must make a conscious effort to do the same for our spiritual health.

Here are a few tips to help you perform a spiritual detox:

Choose your method of detox. Just as removing certain things from our diets is necessary for a physical detox, the same is true spiritually. And, there are times when our spiritual detox becomes physical, such as fasting. Matthew 17:21 says that “Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.”
Put more of the good stuff in. Read the Bible so that the Word of God can resonate in your spirit. So often, the things we see, hear, and take in around us affect our thoughts and attitude. Here are the ingredients for what to take in: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8
It may seem as though this isn’t a factor, but unforgiveness affects our spirits. When we hold grudges, we hold onto strife and anger that we have no business harboring. Also, when we refuse to forgive others, it causes us to be ineligible for the forgiveness of God. “But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.” Mark 11:26 “Forbearing one another and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” Colossians 3:13
Prayer is to the spirit, as exercise is to the body. Prayer keeps you going and refreshed, and so our Playbook tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 to, “Pray without ceasing.”
Stay away from that bad stuff. The thing about a detox is that you cannot continue on with it forever. When the detox period is over, you’ve got to make a conscious effort to remain healthy. Our Playbook says in 1 Thessalonians 5:22 to “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” Toxic bondage is a choice – to which we must say “No!” “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” Galatians 5:1

So, exercise your spirit, properly nourish it, and let go of all the bad stuff. Detoxing is necessary for every aspect of our lives and it’s never too late to begin. Let’s start now!

“God, I’m Tired”: An Uplifting Word for the Worn-out Christian

By

Kristina Bolton

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Jun 6, 2019

The Preachy Writer Podcast

“The Preachy Writer Podcast” is a new podcast aimed at helping believers live for God. Referred to as a “mid-week snack” it edifies and encourages Christians to keep pressing toward Jesus. Never predictable but always timely it is sure to get your passion ignited. Join the Kristina every Wednesday to be strengthened, challenged, and encouraged.

I’m just tired, Lord.

There comes a time in our walk with the Lord that trying times arise. Being a part of any team requires work, and from that work, we strive for victory.

However, when it seems like there is more tribulation than the promises of God coming to pass, the work can become exhausting.

Staying in the fight becomes more of a concern and the temptation to give up seems like the best solution.

If you find yourself telling God, “I’m tired,” then this episode is for you. Be encouraged!

Listen to “God, I’m Tired” on Spreaker.

Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to “The Preachy Writer Podcast”

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Spotify

Good Sex: 7 Surprising Marital Aids in the Bible to Use Immediately

By

Kim Brightness

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Jun 5, 2019

God Made Sex, Good

It’s not a total “newsflash”, but some Christian couples may need the reminder: God is the Creator sex. And, in His God-character with full creative authority, He looked at sex and saw that it was good. Real good.

Not only did God create sex, God intentionally cares about sex. He didn’t author sexual activity half-heartedly but crafted an intense pleasure through oneness for husbands and wives to enjoy.

Like the old Cracker Jack boxes, there’s a gift inside, folks! Think about it. If good sex was an after-thought to God, He could’ve easily created a simple “button” on our bodies to press in order to procreate – case closed. But no. Think about it. For every human conception on earth, the man, at a minimum, experiences an incredibly heightened sense of pleasure as the sperm fertilizes the egg {insert men high-fiving God}.

Since God made sex for The Cleavers, He also created the ins and outs, the boundary lines, the order of functionality and operation for sex. Being the Alpha and Omega God He is, God was strategic in that He created sex not only within the realm of the physical, but knew fully the influence on the internal – emotional, mental, and psychological places within us.

Sex is a mind, body, and spirit job.

When’s the last time you and your spouse treated sex as such? When’s the last time you or your spouse took action on God’s advice for good sex?

What? You’ve never read the good sex play calls in scripture inspired by the divine Sex Therapist Himself?

Well, consider this to be your blessed day (or night) for marital intimacy via good sex!

God’s Marital Tools for Good Sex

With every good and perfect gift from God, the enemy has a counterfeit and/or a monkey wrench.

Are you and your spouse experiencing less than what God intended for your sex life?

While the world would have us believe that the only effective marital tools for good sex are things like pornography, toys, or group activities, God’s prescriptions are much simpler. His marital tools will make your sex life richer, and add no sorrow to your relationship like e.g. porn (Proverbs 10:22).

Try these little known – or little used – play calls to improve your sex life. Some of them may surprise you…

1. Husbands, love your wives (Colossians 3:19).

Hubbies! Do you want your wife to melt in your arms? Show her you LOVE her. Not just in lip service, but in the same manner that Christ loved the church – through giving and sacrifice (John 3:16, Ephesians 5:2).

Safety, patience, and trust abide in the essence of love – all things that your wife craves. As you satisfy her with your consistent, loving support, watch the levels of sexual intimacy roll off the charts!

2. Wives, reverence your husbands (Ephesians 5:33).

Deep respect has an amazing effect on husbands, wives. When your husband feels your love and respect, it has a way of healing and protecting areas currently under attack in his psyche that you may know nothing about. In contrast, our disrespect and lack of honor can further injure the hearts of our men, which births ripe conditions for the enemy’s use.

It is God’s order for wives to reverence their husbands. Wives, let your desire be towards your husband’s best interest (Genesis 3:16), and watch how it positively affects your marriage in and out of the bedroom.

3. Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)

If God is Love, it is anti-God to lie. And, where there is the opposite of God or His character, there lies everything contrary to God and the absence of His blessings.

Lies within the marriage will make your sex life sick. Likewise, speaking the truth without love and grace is like washing your clothes with a cheese grater – sure, you want them cleaned, but your delivery is too rough and abrasive. You’re shredding the very fabric of your relationship.

Just like sex is communication – and requires communication – season your speech with love and grace (Ephesians 4:29), and watch it also spice up your love life.

4. Husbands, Wives, it’s not just about you (Galatians 5:13).

Just as the body of Christ is called to “serve one another” – how much more does God expect husbands and wives to serve each other?

Do you make sex just about you – your needs, wants, timing, your way? Does your spouse have room to express and receive what they need?

Selfishness is not a desirable character trait of a Cleaver and has no place within the bounds of marriage. Begin to adopt a Spirit of service rather than any requirement of servitude, and watch how good sex will be had by all.

5. Couples, give all your cares to God (1 Peter 5:7).

Where do you take your intimate concerns, if not to God? Does God’s “all” only apply to bills, jobs, or sickness – but not the health of your sex life?

Remember, anything that God created, He cares about it. When we allow the cares of life to bog us down, it affects the communication, the focus, and the intimacy within our marriages.

Lose the weights that are choking the life out of your sex life. Give all of your concerns to God in faith-filled prayer – touching and agreeing together.

6. Couples, pray without ceasing – even during sex (1 Thessalonians 5:17)?

You are closest to your spouse during sex than at any other time – have you ever prayed for them during sex?

Don’t laugh. No, you don’t have to go up in tongues lol (unless you want to). Your spouse doesn’t even have to know you’re praying blessings over their life, their purpose. But, in your spirit during sex, you can give thanks and give honor for the work God is doing in their life. You can speak greatness over them. Your touch can be drenched with love, blessings, and grace over all that concerns them – giving them a safe place to be transparent and vulnerable.

In Jesus, Jesus, Jesus’ name. Amen :).

7. Couples, honor your “head” (1 Corinthians 11:3).

The head of every husband is Christ. The head of every wife is the husband. What would happen in marital intimacy if husbands and wives both honored their head? Is there enough opportunity for submission to go around for everybody?

Unity in marriage is a blessing that mirrors fine, anointed oil that runs from the head down – upon the husband first, then upon the wife and family (Psalm 133:2). How difficult is it to live in disunity and then expect the blessings of unified, good sex? Wives, how unrealistic is it to dishonor your husband then expect your “head” to bless you? Husbands?

If we all gave honor where honor is due, we’ll reap the benefits of God’s blessings in all things.

Do good sex God’s way. Know that God cares about every aspect of your marriage, including your sex life. Enjoy the joys of sex – it’s your gift – and when in doubt or if difficulties arise, consult the Creator for His guidance and best practices.

Which marital tool(s) above will you apply to your marriage?
What other biblical marital tools do you use to keep your marriage healthy?

3 Lessons on Letting Go From the Lion King

By

Alecia M. White

-

Jun 4, 2019

Letting Go is an Act of Survival

So, the other week, I had my ten-year-old nephew over. He’d decided that we should make popcorn and watch movies (always a good idea). The movie he chose was The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride. If you haven’t seen it, it’s (of course) the sequel to the original Lion King movie. In this one, Simba and Nala have grown up, “married”, and have a daughter named Kiara. Kiara befriends Kovu, the son of Zira. Zira is basically a female version of Scar, and he’d began helping to raise Kovu before his death. No, I’m not going to take you through the entire movie, but I do have a point to make from it (y’all know Disney preaches sometimes).

Mmmkay… let’s fast forward to the end of the movie. The lionesses that were followers of Scar and now following Zira were at war with Simba, Nala, and their pride. As a fight began, Kiara and Kovu stepped in to bring the two sides together. They give a spiel about how they are all the same so they should learn to live together in peace.

As the opposing lionesses begin to realize the truth in what was said, Zira tries to convince them to continue fighting. Zira’s daughter tells her to just let it go and her response is, “I will never let it go!” A series of actions happen and Kiara and Zira go tumbling over a cliff. As Zira falls, Kiara tries to help her, but instead of accepting the help, she falls into the river and drowns to her death.

Is There a “Never” We Should All Reconsider?

I realized that we are often like Zira and refuse to change due to our own reservations and pride. We’d rather fall off that cliff than to accept that others are not against us or to take that helping hand.

That’s a dangerous place to be and it’s scary to watch. It is important that we check ourselves and where we are so that we are in a position to hear the voice of reason.

Our Playbook says in Proverbs 16:18 that “Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Often, our past affects our ability to see the freedom in letting go.

Zira was so bound by the past that moving on and living peaceably didn’t seem worth it to her. Y’all, it’s a hard road when being alone and revengeful feels like the better option. But, sadly, it happens more often than any of us would like to admit. I know there have been at least a couple of times when I’d convinced myself that letting go was the weaker choice and that I should go on to prove my point. I was wrong in every one of those times.

I know letting go can seem hard to do. Especially when someone has, in your opinion, done wrong by you. But sometimes you gotta give it up, honey! Your insistence on being “right” could cost you everything. Here are a few tips to help you “let it go”:

Forgive. Such a small word with such a big meaning. Sometimes the reason we can’t move on or let go is that we decide to hold on to what hurt us. You gotta forgive… them and yourself. “But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.” Mark 11:25 (NLT)
Let go. As the saying goes, “let bygones be bygones”. Holding on to a painful past only causes more pain. Holding on to the past at all only keeps you stuck there. Now, I’m no expert and there are things that I am still working through, but I have learned to make a conscious effort to rise above. You, too, must do the same. Lot’s wife was so set on not letting go that she “looked back”. Don’t be so “salty” that you get stuck where you were. “But Lot’s wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt.” Genesis 19:26
Accept the help. Zira could have lived, but her spite caused her to fall and drown. There may be people against you, but I guarantee that God has someone set up to help you succeed. Yep… there is somebody set up by God to help you. You called Him; He heard you; He sent them. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalms 46:1

We are all human and sometimes it seems easier to hold that grudge and push away what we may not recognize as being sent by God. It probably won’t be easy so I won’t discredit your feelings by saying it will be – but I admonish you to “let it go”. Don’t drown in your past.

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God’s Marital Tools for Good Sex

1. Husbands, love your wives (Colossians 3:19).

2. Wives, reverence your husbands (Ephesians 5:33).

3. Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)

4. Husbands, Wives, it’s not just about you (Galatians 5:13).

5. Couples, give all your cares to God (1 Peter 5:7).

6. Couples, pray without ceasing – even during sex (1 Thessalonians 5:17)?

7. Couples, honor your “head” (1 Corinthians 11:3).

Which marital tool(s) above will you apply to your marriage? What other biblical marital tools do you use to keep your marriage healthy?

Letting Go is an Act of Survival

Is There a “Never” We Should All Reconsider?

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Which marital tool(s) above will you apply to your marriage?
What other biblical marital tools do you use to keep your marriage healthy?

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