KITCHEN KNIFE SERIES 1 - CONCLUSION

KITCHEN SEARCH

Proverbs 30:14 King James Version (KJV)

14 There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.

Reviewing the knives in Session 1, did God show you yourself?

WHICH KNIFE YOU IDENTIFIED WITH?

1. Well Done - Steak Knife - Attacking and Critical
2. Smooth Operator - Butter Knife - Smooth and manipulative

TODAY'S FOCUS: TAKE ACTION

Proverbs 12:18 King James Version (KJV)

18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.

There are two types of individuals mentioned in the scripture above. One kills and the other brings health.  The word of God declares my people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.  If you have been convicted this week, use the cure for the attacking and critical and also the smooth and manipulating. (Read this week's posts)

It's time to take ACTION.... 

•  A - Acknowledge and accept the areas where you Identified with
• C - Confess and commit them to God in prayer
• T - Take responsibility and don't cast blame
•  I -  Implement the cure
• O - Observe without judgement and critical comments   
• N - Never give Up or take your relationship for granted

Be conscious in all your conversations and interactions whether verbal or non-verbal for the cutting or manipulative behaviors that may surface.  Let's Discuss...

• How can you remain conscious of the Knives?  
• What action (s) should be taken if the knives are in effect?
• What suggestions do you have to measure your change or outcome?

Remember... THE TONGUE OF THE WISE IS HEALTH

God Bless - Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

KITCHEN KNIFE WIFE SERIES 1 - SMOOTH OPERATOR

THE BUTTER KNIFE WIFE or WOMAN

SMOOTH MANIPULATIVE SPIRIT

This is the character of the Butter Knife Wife.  She manipulates her way to get the things she desires.  She let's you feel that everything is perfect until her desires are fulfilled then resorts back to her old ways

SHE IS ALSO A MASTER PLANNER!
She is controlling and very convincing.  She can trick you out of your last dime because of her smooth planning schemes.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE  SMOOTH OPERATOR CURE 

• Be Honest - No matter your needs you must be honest and the way you go about getting it must be sincere and free of manipulation. 

• Motivated by Love - Our actions and performances must by motivated only by love and not by material desires. 

• Look to God to supply your desires and needs by delighting in him.  

Psalm 37:4 - Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Take a look at the desires of your heart and ask....

1. Are they in line with God's purpose and will?
2. Are they honest, motivated by love or are they manipulative?

As you honestly answered the above questions and accept the cure, Let's Talk....

• What actions have you taken that were manipulative or masterminded as a smooth operator to your husband or another individual?

• Would you give up the Butter Knife today? Why/Why Not?

KEEP THE FAITH! 

Virtuous Jewel

KITCHEN KNIFE WIFE SERIES 1 - WELL DONE PLEASE

The Steak Knife Wife 

(Please apply to any other relationship that your have - boss, friend, pastor, neighbor etc..)   

• Do you want your husband and others like you want your steak?
• Well Done?  
• Perfect in faith walk?
• Spiritually Mature? 

While there is nothing wrong in wanting it, how do you go about communicating it?

Let's look into the following two (2) scenarios:
#1
You ask your husband to take out the garbage when you left home.  Upon returning home you immediately say a hurried good afternoon, (didn't noticed the lawn freshly mowed or his nice trimmed hair cut) took a look in the garbage corner and say, why didn't you take out the garbage?  He replies, I did, honey.  You digging in with your steak knife say and well done spirit voice, you did and left the bottles on the ground? 

#2
Told your son to clean up his room while you went to the store.  When you came back you immediately begin tearing into him saying hurtful things just because a shirt was not hanged up.  (By the way he did clean his room)

Mrs Perfect, Mrs. Well done, Mrs Mature Dig in and Dig in some more DEMANDING... WELL DONE PLEASE!!

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE CURE FOR A STEAK WIFE

First a little surprise... Jesus is Lord of your husband and others - NOT YOU!

Our husband and others are.... "MUCH MORE THAN MEAT!

He says, Well done faithful servant.  They were faithful in little things, He will make them rule over greater things.  So why don't you find...

THE CURE:  WE MUST LEARN TO APPRECIATE

When we attack them for the mistakes they make we cut into and tear away the substance of our relationship and into their spirits just like we tear and cut away at a well done steak.  We do not give them the opportunity to hear us much less to learn anything we are trying to teach.  

IS THAT YOU?

• Are you brave enough to share an experience?
• List a scenario and give us two (2)  ways to show appreciation 
• Give three (3) positive affirmation

Let's learn to be thankful for the things that are done rather than criticize the small portion of things left undone.  

Count your Blessings and avoid the temptation to criticize negatively!

Learn to trust God with the things that are annoyances in your life.  

BUILD UP- DO NOT CUT UP OR TEAR UP!

Keep The Faith

Virtuous Jewel

KITCHEN WIFE SERIES 1 - LET'S TALK

COMMUNICATION

Communication is crucial and important to the life of any relationship.  However, how we communicate can affect us negatively or positively. 

There are two types of Communication: verbal and non-verbal.  

In verbal communication we use our words and tone of voice - harsh or peaceful. 

In non-verbal communication we use our facial expressions, body language and gestures/actions to communicate.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE SOURCE - THE HEART

Matthew 12:34 King James Version (KJV)

34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.

Let's Talk - Based on that scripture what are your thoughts on the following:  

• How does the way a person communicate and express themselves have to do with issues of the heart? 

• What issues can a person be dealing with inside that may affect good communication or certain behaviors?

• What important role does a woman's words, tone of voice and actions play in her interaction with her husband and others?  (Describe with details/examples)

• What are some of the harmful ways issues of the heart are expressed and manifested?

Are you carrying baggage (issues) around?

Today, there is a cure

• Be honest with God and with yourself and ask Him to reveal all issues 
• Take ownership and responsibility for your actions
• Confess, Repent and Forgive
• Ask God for a new heart
• Accept God's love and walk in faith
• Communicate Effectively 

Remember, ask God to help you deal with your issues and communicate with love.

God Bless -  Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

KITCHEN KNIFE WIFE SERIES - INTRODUCTION

ARE YOU A WIFE OR A KNIFE STORY 

Last month I went on a trip to Macon, GA to a women's conference.  Going on the trip came with many challenges especially financial.  When I left I wasn't sure what God was going to do with me or the full purpose of my trip but I knew He was about to take me somewhere.  

Well I will sum it up by saying, He confirmed to me many things He had laid in my spirit and some things I had received from my living room intimacy moments.  The word spoken and received were confirmed.  But....

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE BOOKSTORE? 

After our closing session I went to purchase a book by our last speaker.  As I walked inside I glanced several books that were on sale in my sale price range of $5 - $10.  However the title of a book glared at me.  I picked it up read the back and got excited but was discouraged that it wasn't in my sale price range though it was a small book.  I put it down, but it kept looking at me.  I even spoke to it and said why you couldn't be $6 like that big book over there?  Yet it kept calling at me.  I went back picked it up and laid it down again.  After getting the book I came to get and another item, I walked passed the book and as if it said, PICK ME UP! Well I did and....

TODAY'S TOPIC:  KITCHEN KNIFE WIFE 

As a result of that experience, our present empowerment series are now on at TWIGS Ministry.  

The Book, ARE YOU A WIFE OR A KNIFE, by Verdia R Jackson spoke volume to me.  

I am not ashamed to say I was guilty of a couple of the knives and decided to impart to help not just wives, but all women to take a look within and deal with some issues of the heart.  

I would like to use our blog this week to share last week's session and will do so weekly throughout the time frame of the series, (February 22 - March 22, 2014)

OBJECTIVES:

• To understand Various Types and sources of communication

• Take ownership for all actions

• Deal with issues of the Heart

• Develop and implement practical strategies/solutions

• Measurable Outcomes/ Take Action

LET'S BREAK THE ICE - 

• What's the Word on the Streets?
• What is your spouse, children, co-workers, friends or others saying about you that you know to be true but may not be very nice.
• Have you taken action to correct it? / How?

Please share your experience and follow for the entire series to help enhance your relationships.

GOD BLESS AND REMEMBER TO KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

IF GOD BE FOR US

NOT GUILTY 

Is your Innocence in question?  

Are you wrongfully accused?

Is your integrity and faith attacked?

LET'S TAKE A LOOK AT Acts 19:35-37 KJV

And when the town clerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter? 

Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, ye ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly.
For ye have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches, nor yet blasphemers of your goddess. 

PLEASE GOD!  

When you do even your enemies will be at peace with you and will defend you. 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  WHAT HAVE I DONE WRONG?

Can you relate to the scripture quoted above?   

THINK ABOUT A TIME YOU .....

•  Were wrongfully misjudged
•  Were wrongfully accused?
• Had to defend your faith and what you believe
• Were misunderstood, misread or misinterpreted 

Answer the following:

• Did you have to defend yourself?
• Did your accusers defend you?
• What did you learn from the experience?
• Do you think we can avoid these attacks?

In light of this topic would you....

1. Share your story, experience and lessons learned
2. Recommend method how to deal with these issues 
3. Provide encouragement to others going through similar situations

What can we say then..
IF GOD BE FOR US WHO CAN BE AGAINST US!

GOD BLESS, and always.... REMEMBER TO KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

SIDETRACKED BY DISTRACTION

TIPS FOR THE DISCOURAGED

Tips from Daily Devotion to Nurture a Mary Heart 

1.  Allow for rest stops - Discouragement is often our body's way of saying, "Stop! I need rest." Exodus 34:21
2.  Get a new point of view - Take a few steps back and ask God to help you see His perspective on your situation.  Isaiah 33:17
3.  Have patience - Commit your concerns to the Lord.  He is at work, even when you don't see His hand.  Romans 8:28
4.  Mingle - Get out of the house, visit some friends.  Good old-fashioned fellowship can lift your spirits and chase away the blues. Psalm 133:1
5.  Set the time - Set a limited time to focus on your situation.  When time is up surrender it all to the Lord and move on.     Ecclesiastes 3:4

TODAY'S FOCUS:  TIPS APPLICATION

Today, reflect on the above tips and.....

1. Identify the one (s) applicable to you
2. Write down in order of importance
3. Read the scripture given to each 
4. List some steps that you will take to correct the area(s)
5. Pray and apply measures in every area

THE SECRET ......  DO NOT STAY THERE!

FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH! 

GOD BLESS

Virtuous Jewel

TURN TO GOD WITH YOUR WORSHIP

CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE

Matthew 15:22-28

King James Version (KJV)

22 And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.
23 But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.
24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
25 Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me.
26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs.
27 And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table.
28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

This very familiar bible passage can be applied in so many ways.  Today I would like you to look at it in a deeper and real way.  

WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF:

1. Jesus ignored you?
2. The disciples ask Jesus to turn you away?
3. You were insulted and compared to or called a dog?
4. Identified as not being a part of the group qualified to receive?

I am sure you would give up as we do many times when we get a no from any source for needs we may have.  But worse yet...   Would we be in the mode to WORSHIP? 

This woman had many of the same reasons we use today why we turn away from God and stop trusting Him.   BUT SHE WORSHIPED! 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  CRUMBS OF GREAT FAITH

• How bad do you want to be healed?
• How bad do you want your breakthrough?
• How bad you want your loved ones saved or delivered?

Despite being ignored, refused and rejected by the critics, insulted and even identified and told she was not part of the group she pursued her cry with a worship.  
She worshiped because her need was greater than the silence, much greater than the insults and Oh Glory to God far greater than her identity or not belonging.  

WHAT ABOUT YOU?  
Will you allow even the silence of the heavens to stop your worship?

STOP!!! Take the time and put your prayer up with a worship from your inside. 

HEALING IS THE CHILDREN BREAD! 
So confess your sins now and receive Christ into your life so that you can become his own and with all that you have go ahead and cry with your WORSHIP and....

GO AHEAD - CRY OUT!  Yes, tell Daddy that you will take even the crumbs from the table.

BE MADE WHOLE THIS HOUR!
Be made whole from every sickness, disease, attacks of the enemy, poverty, lack, anxiety, doubts, fears, financial need or lack, spiritual warfare and afflictions of every kind.......

Read those verses again and personalize it to your situation in every area of your life and be made whole! 

Remember, your faith will make you whole, BUT.....

YOUR WORSHIP WILL OPEN THE HEAVENS!!

GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

A LITTLE COMPROMISE

A LITTLE COMPROMISE 

"For even a little sin in our wellspring has the power to pollute and corrupt the very essence of who we are."  (Joanna Weaver - Daily Devotion)

A little compromise can:
- Pollute and corrupt the very essence of who you are
- Affect your anointing
- Prevent you walking in your destiny and purpose
- Lose the kingdom

Ask King Solomon as you read 1 Kings 11:1-11 and note some key things he compromised....
- Foreign Women
- Burning incense
- Forsaking God and serving idols
- Not keeping covenant and statutes
- Worshiping in the high places

TODAY'S FOCUS:  WHAT ARE YOU COMPROMISING? 
The mixing and mingling of Holy and unholy is a challenge for many people today. 

FOOD FOR THOUGHT....  WHAT ARE YOU MIXING

• Are there any idols in your life?
• What practices are you upholding?
• Is there a temptation you need to overcome?

GUARD YOUR HEART!

Remember as stated in today's devotion by Joanna Weaver...
WHATEVER YOUR ALLOW INTO YOUR LIFE WILL EVENTUALLY BE REVEALED--
BOTH THE GOOD AND THE BAD!


God Bless you - KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

THE USE OF KNOWLEDGE

TWIGS BIBLE STUDY 

Today we give you the opportunity to join our live Bible Study 
9:45 Local VI Time - 8:45 Eastern Standard Time

PLEASE CALL 1-470 - 88 TWIGS (1 - 470 - 888 -9447)

YOU CAN PARTICIPATE AND OR ASK QUESTIONS BY PRESSING * 5 

The heart of him who has understanding seeks knowledge , but the mouth of fools feeds on foolishness (Proverbs 15:14)

OBJECTIVE: To learn how godly knowledge is acquired and properly used..

SCRIPTURES FOR STUDY (From Proverbs -God's Book of Wisdom)

EXPLORING 
1.  Proverbs 12:1  - Think about the meaning of instruction and its importance throughout Proverbs.  What is the connection between instruction and knowledge? Why does this passage tie the two together so closely?  See 19:27

2.  Just how eager should a person be to acquire godly knowledge?  What else is involved in the pathway to acquiring knowledge?
Proverbs 2: 1-6

3.  Proverbs 10:14 offers an interesting comparison:
What is meant by this comparison?  Also read 12:23; 1:27; 19:2

4.  What does Proverbs say about how knowledge is used? 15:2,7

RESPONDING
1.  How does knowledge affect a person's actions? 13:16

2.  Why do you suppose Proverbs doesn't warn about becoming puffed up because of knowledge?

Remember, Godly knowledge is essential to a believer's walk with God and to an appropriate relationship with others.  Thus, the counsel "Apply your heart to instruction, and your ears to words of knowledge " (Proverbs 23:12) is timely for us today. 

Please feel free to express your thoughts on this subject on this blog.

GOD BLESS AND HAVE A HAPPY SABBATH!

Bishop Melvin and Pastor Julie Rhymer

GOD REMEMBERS

A LESSON FROM KING 

The most intriguing thing happened recently between my son and his dog King. Beside the fact that they have a bond since he was brought home from the mainland and most of his early years were spent with him this experience has not left my mind. 

My son drove up the hill to our house after being away for a while.  As we were approaching our home, I saw the dog left his position stood up like he smell my son, came out of his dog house and started approaching the car.  It appears that he sensed that I was not the one driving because most times I come home he would still stay lying down.  

What I saw next took me by surprise. When the car reached near his house he started a sound like I would do when something excites me, He stood up on his hind legs and as if he was calling his name with every bark, I almost understood what he was saying, like.. I miss you, where have you been, why did you leave me for so long etc.... then as my son came out the car he jumped on him lean his head on him and started sniffing like I know you, I remember you. As my son held out his hand he gave him his paw and then.... my son said.... SIT!
The dog sat and looked at him with those eyes of love. (I guess that's where puppy love came from) But after all these months he still obeyed his orders.  

That gesture immediately gave me a spiritual awakening.
I had many questions, and many things about my God came to mind.  I asked, how can the dog remember my son from a distance?  How come he still remembers the orders , teaching and training although my son has been gone for a such a long time?  

What a revelation that came tumbling through my spirit.

GOD REMEMBERS MY FRAGRANCE (AND SMELL)
HE KNOWS and REMEMBERS MY NAME
HE KNOWS AND REMEMBERS MY VOICE
HE REMEMBERS MY REQUESTS AND IS WAITING TO FULFILL THEM
Most of All - NO MATTER HOW LONG AND HOW FAR I HAVE WANDERED.... HE LOVES ME! HALLELUJAH! 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  GOD'S LOVE 

Is this message for you today? Know that...  
GOD REMEMBERS YOU AND LOVES YOU UNCONDITIONALLY!

Today you may be experiencing or rather feeling unloved; feel like no one is paying attention to you or may have abandoned you; you may also feel that you have been away from God for too long or you may have done too much to receive His love

THERE IS HOPE! 

Reflect back on the story I shared, and read the story of the Prodigal Son and understand that God is always looking out for you!  (Luke 15: 11-32)

Your fragrance is still in His nostrils, He still remembers and knows the voice of your cry, He is just waiting on you to return.   

SURRENDER AND TRUST HIM TODAY - Release your loveless feelings to Him!

You can be restored back to your place.  Think about...

• Where you were before you left Him?
• What did you experienced with Him?
• Do you miss the comfort of His safety and protection?
• What it would be like to be back in His care? 

Today most people are expecting acts and gestures of love but I ask that you....

• Write a love paragraph or poem to God expressing your love to Him
• Write or call someone who probably don't have anyone to say I love you to them
• What act of love can you do for someone in need today?

Remember when we extend love and acts of kindness to others we are only building and filling up our own reservoirs.  

GOD BLESS AND KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel 

NOT A RITUAL BUT A RELATIONSHIP

Faithful In Spite of our Faithlessness

Isn't it good to know that The Lord wants to spend time with us and look forward to it every day?

Today's devotion ministers strongly as Joanna Weaver continues on the thoughts of Robert Munger.  

Under the pressures of our many responsibilities and hectic schedules we shorten our time with Him in the early morning before our life duties begin.  We begin to miss a day or two then the span widens into more often times missed than meeting with Him.  

I am so glad for the gentle reminder of the devotion that speaks volume, 

"The trouble with you is this: You have been thinking of the quiet time, of the Bible study and prayer time, as a factor in your own spiritual progress, but you have forgotten that this hour means something to Me also." 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  DOES THAT DESCRIBE YOU?

Have you had that experience?  I know I have many times.  

My quiet place where I cried when I was in trouble, where I spent time in awe and worship sometimes become icy cold because I have not met in the warmth of His presence as I should. 

LET'S TALK.... consider the following:

• Have you set the time to meet with your Lord every morning?
• How consistent are you in your relationship?
• What do you let get in your way?
• What kind of conversations to you have when you meet? 
• Are you always in an asking, begging, complaining, express, etc... mode?
• Are you doing most of the talking or are you listening to what He has to say?
• Does it include meditative Bible reading or is it just a hurried prayer?

READ THE FOLLOWING...

Colossians 2:6-7

King James Version (KJV)

6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:
7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.

Ask, Are you abounding in His presence with thanksgiving and praise?

 

Remember,  "a relationship doesn't just happen.  It must be.... 

NURTURED, PROTECTED AND LOVED."

God Bless - KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

TAKING A PEEK

A LOOK INSIDE!

How often we have seen closed doors and while everything looks "spic and span" especially our children's room, under the bed, tossed into a corner, under a couch or perhaps our own room where we hide stuff from view, once opened produce many surprises or may even tumble over us.  

Isn't it the same with us as we portray a great outward image and create impressions, but how are we on the inside?

Today's devotion from Joanna Weaver's Daily Devotion to Nurture a Mary Heart would force you to take a peek inside some areas of your life.  

TODAY'S FOCUS: TAKE A VISIT AND LOOK INTO....

THE LIBRARY OF YOUR MIND 

• What are your thoughts about life, yourself, others etc..? 

• What's your secret fear that you ponder and ponder on?

DINNING ROOM 

• What are your appetite and desires?

• What are you feeding on? 

LIVING ROOM

• Who/What are you entertaining in living room intimacy?

• What music are your ears opened to?

HALL CLOSET 

• What are you hoarding?

• What's rotting in there?

WORKSHOP

• What are your activities and amusements there?

• What skills and talents are hidden or expressed?

BEDROOM

• How is your relationship and temperature?

• Who are your friends, associates and companion

While these questions may generate physical and natural responses, I encourage you to apply spiritual applications to the spiritual aspect of your answers.  

LET'S DO A CLEANING WITH REPENTANCE IF WE ARE GUILTY IN ANY AREA!

GOD BLESS AND KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel 

UNFULFILLED APPETITE

HUNGRY FOR MORE!

Ecclesiastes 6:7KJV 

All the labor of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite is not filled. 

STARVING?  FAMISHED?  PARCHED?  THIRSTY?  HOLLOW?  CRAVING FOR MORE?  ACHING?  PINNING?  EAGER?  FAINT?  EMPTY?  RAVENOUS? LONGING?  YEARNING?  

After reading the scripture downloaded today from the throne room,  can you identify with the words above about your life?  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  DO THESE WORDS DESCRIBE YOUR APPETITE? 

Does that describe you?  OUCH!!  Building on your life story - Let's think about....

• You've worked hard to acquire the degree and status you pursued in life
• Worked hard and bought the home, car etc.. of your dreams
• Married the man or woman that you felt was God's ideal
• Have the best paying job you can get
• Have good children and family life
• Can meet your monthly obligations
• In fairly good health 
• Financial future is promising

BUT....  YOU STILL DESIRE MORE?

LET'S REVISIT THE SCRIPTURE AGAIN -

"All the labor of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite is not filled"

There is so much reality in this!  As we acquire the things our flesh desire, though we get to the goals that we set (as in the list above), we continue to labor, we continue to achieve and our dreams continue to expand but...

The things that we work for in this physical life leaves our soul "HUNGRY FOR MORE!"

We have heard many stories of the man/woman who have a great job, good spouse and family and all the comforts of life, BUT... are unhappy, engaged in extra marital affairs, commit suicide or other crimes, are lustful, covetous, greedy, intimidated, have low self esteem and many other unfulfilled longings and desires, BUT...  STILL HAVE A BOTTOMLESS PIT HUNGER?

It is obvious that the things we work hard for are really to bring and give comfort to our flesh, BUT they DO NOT FULFILL the inner core of our being because... 

WE WERE BORN TO SERVE AND WORSHIP GOD!  

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE REASONING OF THIS SCRIPTURE?

CAN WE BE HONEST TODAY? LET'S SHARE AND KEEP IT REAL!

Remember NO ONE CAN FILL YOUR GOD HOLE BUT GOD!   WOW? WOW!

While you think about that just know that... 

THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR GOD! - HALLELUJAH!

GOD BLESS - KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

HAD IT NOT BEEN FOR GRACE

OUR SPIRITS ARE AWAKENED ONLY BY SALVATION

Joanna Weaver states in At the Feet of Jesus devotion, "it is the innermost part of us, our spirits, that are awakened only by salvation."

We were dead because of sin, but after grace came through Jesus Christ we became alive.

Our Spiritual understandings are opened, the lights are turned on and we become filled with God's presence, peace and joy.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  A HOLY MAKEOVER

Thank God  that we can be made over and perfected by Grace.  Reflecting on the following verses think on how you are changed by Grace.  

Titus 2:11-12 King James Version (KJV)

11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

Describe.....

• Your make over - What areas have you seen changes?

• What areas you experience conflict (If you can be real)?

• How can you cooperate with the makeover?

Remember with the Lord's help we can have and live in victory in the ongoing conflict of the flesh  and the Spirit. 

Let the perfecting of grace begin...  EXTEND GOD'S GRACE TO OTHERS! 

KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

GOOD LOOKING

ARE YOU GOOD LOOKING? 

In our negative society today, most people are ready to point out the bad or what's not going right.  What about you?

Can you see the good in your bad circumstances?

Do you go out of your way to look for the good from your bad experience?

Are you always ready to point out the mistakes of others rather than give a good compliment?

If the weather is bad can you give a good report? 

Can you think of a good thought about someone with a bad past?

Can you put in a good word for someone who has hurt you?

The questions can go on and on......

TODAY'S FOCUS - LOOKING FOR THE GOOD

Looking for the good in your circumstances - Romans 8: 28

Looking for the good and perfect will of God - Romans 12: 2
Looking for the good gifts that God has promised - Matthew 7: 11
Looking for His good treasure -Deuteronomy 28: 12
Looking for the good land - Exodus 3: 8
Looking to be of good courage - 1 Chronicles 22:13
Looking for the goodness of The Lord - Psalm 27: 13
AND... Looking for God's good pleasure - Luke 12:32

PICK ONE OF THE ABOVE AND SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON HOW GOOD LOOKING YOU ARE!

Remember look for the good in all things and overcome evil with good.  And that qualifies you to be..... GOOD LOOKING!

GOD BLESS YOU - KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

WHAT HAS IMPRISONED YOU?

FREE BEHIND THE BARS

Why are people still bond even when their prison doors have been opened wide?

This may seem like an unusual question, but isn't it just how we are in many areas of our lives?

Imagine a prisoner getting released after serving a 20 year sentence, his papers are signed for him to leave, they come to get him remove his shackles but yet his hands remain in the same position behind his back, his feet remains bent and his head hung.  He is beckoned to come forward but refuses to move.  When ask again to come he raises his eyes a little takes a step forward but immediately stops and regain his position.  Why do you think this is hard for him?

TODAY'S FOCUS:  WHY AREN'T YOUR FREE?

JESUS HAS COME THAT YOU MIGHT BE FREE!

YOUR PRISON DOOR HAS BEEN OPENED THE KEY HAS BEEN GIVEN TO YOU BUT....

LET'S DISCUSS:

• WHY DO YOU WALK AROUND DRAGGING YOUR CHAINS?
• WHY ARE YOU STILL BENT IN THE SAME POSITION AND YOU'RE FREE?
• WHY CAN'T YOU MOVE PAST THE GATES OF YOUR PRISON?
• WHAT'S HOLDING YOU BACK?

Today I ask that you think of the story and questions above and evaluate your life and honestly ask yourself....

AM I WALKING IN TOTAL FREEDOM IN EVERY AREA OF MY LIFE, THE WAY GOD WANTS ME TO, THE WAY HE HAS CALLED ME TO AND THE WAY I SHOULD BE? 

If you do not accept your freedom you will continue to carry the guilt of your shame, hurt, past etc...   You are not better off than the person who is enjoying liberty as a real prisoner behind bars.  

Galatians 5

King James Version (KJV)

5 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

FOR WHOM THE SON HAS SET FREE IS FREE INDEED! 

KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

WHAT'S YOUR PLANS?

MISSED YOU!

I apologize for not posting blog past week as I was off island, my new laptop got messed up and also had phone issues. However, my heart was with you my web viewers praying on what God would have me to minister to you next and for the coming months.  I am excited to report that He has made me glad, and I am despite the challenges ready to impact my world.

SO I ASK, WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS?

2014 has unfolded itself, and we are in the second month of our double blessing year.  Before you know it Summer will be here and then winter.  Therefore, we must activate our plans by answering the following questions:

What does your future look like?

What are you focusing on?

Have you started on your plans that you laid down for 2014? 

How about your New Year's Resolution? Have you taken action?

TODAY'S FOCUS:  DO YOU HAVE AN ACTION PLAN?

I'm sure you will agree that an action plan is important to evaluate your progress of goals and dreams set.  (Hopefully you have a plan - if not start one NOW)  So let's review and discuss:

• Are your goals SMART?
• Specific - Did you outline the specifics and details
• Measurable - Can you visually measure the progress
• Attainable - Is it something that can be achieved and is reasonably possible
• Realistic - Is it sound, within your boundaries and practical
• Time - Have you set a time frame in which to accomplish each task

• Have you taken action since the onset of your plan?

• Are you on schedule to meet deadlines?

• Is there an action plan in place to outline processes/procedures and to take action where necessary to ensure that plan is executed?

These questions will set you in motion to realize on your 2014 goals/plans, But....

YOU MUST HAVE AN ACTION PLAN?  See sample below:

 

PLAN	ACTION	WHO	WHEN	DATE
Read Bible more regularly	Wake up earlier than prayer line time in am Get in bed a little earlier to get in some reading before Bedtime	Me (Set alarm if I am having difficulties)	5:30 am 8:00/9 Except service nights	Daily

When you set goals and have an action plan you can measure and adjust accordingly.  

There are too many resolution that ends with the holiday, old year and new year frills.  

Let's not let the months run ahead of us anymore, but let's make a commitment to make every day count as we make every effort to action our plans and execute them.

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel