YOU ARE ACCEPTED

OPPRESSIVE ACCEPTANCE

Although many may use this scripture as a right to eat anything, a read of Acts 10 reflects a powerful acceptance of God and shows that there is no respect of persons with Him.   

15  And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.
28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.

Today there are many oppressions placed on Christians by religious and sad to say believers of Christ.  While I personally believe that the laws of clean and unclean serves as a dietary law established for our well being and healthy eating than a command as to what to eat,  this scripture outlines God's acceptance of us.  

TODAY'S TOPIC:  RELIGIOUS BARRIERS

While many people have their preferences of lifestyle and eating habits the concentration should be on acceptance and embracing others.  Let's discuss 

• What are some religious barriers?

• Do you think God limits what He will do through others because of gender etc? 

• How do you accept others who are different in faith or ethnic background?

• Have you experienced any personal experience of acceptance?

Remember you should not allow anyone to restrict you because of your gender, ethnic or cultural backgrounds or any other spiritual requisites and limit or determine what God can do through you.  The scripture truly indicates that God has no partiality and gives liberally His Spirit to all who will serve Him regardless of any inflicted barriers.  

God Bless you and Keep The Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

FULL BENEFIT PLAN

SALVATION

Today most people are concerned about health care benefits.  The cost of health insurance is very costly and most average people cannot afford to pay for their premiums on their own.  

HERE IS SOME GREAT NEWS!  

God's Salvation Plan is complete and has many benefits

Psalms 103: 1-3
Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

(You can read the entire chapter for coverage details)

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE PLAN 

As you read Psalms 103 answer the following: 

• List some of the benefits found?

• Is there a cost involved?

• Is there a limited amount of coverage?

• Is there an age limit?

• Does it expire?  

• What is the required condition?

Remember that God's plan is a complete package deal.  It comes with no restrictions but only one requirement.

MEET THE CONDITIONS TODAY AND ENJOY ALL HIS BENEFITS!

God Bless you and Keep The Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

TAKE DELIGHT

DELIGHT OR DUTY?

Read Isaiah 58 and focus on verse 2 (KJV)

Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God.  

Many people serve God and perform other spiritual things (such as fasting or service to others) out of duty, habit, self praise or other self gratifying reasons.    

Take a good read of the above scripture and do a self check today!

TODAY'S FOCUS:  SPIRIT CHECK - IS IT A DELIGHT?

Is your spirit delighted when performing the following or are you performing out of duty or by request?

• Prayer and Fasting
• Daily Devotion
• Serving others
• Going to church
• Giving money or time
• Loving and forgiving others
• Feeding the hungry
• Visiting the sick 
• Ministering with your gifts
• Other .........

Before answering, I ask that you truly reflect on how you are performing: 

1. Do you grumble or complain?
2. Do you speak to others about it?
3. Do you expect compensation?
4. Do you have restrictions?
5. Are you truly delighted in your spirit?

Know that if you delight in performing any thing for God as reflected in the scripture reading there are some rewards as a result.  Can you list at least 7 things promised to you if you take delight in approaching God and doing things for Him with delight?  (I have given you one example)

• Your health will spring forth speedily

Remember if you delight yourself in the Lord He will cause you to ride upon the high places of the earth.  

GOD BLESS AND KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

CONVENIENT STORE

NEIGHBORHOOD GROCERY STORE

Most neighborhoods especially in our islands have a convenient store (corner store) with various items.  Some of them have items that you may have to go to three or five different regular stores in a shopping mall to purchase. These items range from groceries, to pharmaceuticals, auto goods, clothing, home gadgets/kitchen appliances, books, school supplies other services etc..

Some of these convenient stores are a stone throw and within short walking distance or maybe right next door.  Because of the convenience of having items all in one place they may be marked up and costs more than the regular department stores and supermarkets.  

There are also several other downsides to their convenience such as:

• Quality
• Imitation Brand
• Limited Variety
• Traffic/Noise (both people/vehicle if you live close by)
• Privacy
• Other

As you think about the facts above, the usage, costs and even inconveniences consider the usage in today's discussion.

TODAY'S TOPIC:  SPIRITUAL CONVENIENT STORE

Psalm 46:1 (KJV)

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

As you reflect on the above scripture and the discussion above what are your thoughts? 

Do you think that scripture is abused by you or others?  How?

Let's discuss how God is being used in the following: 

1. Neighborhood Grocery Store
2. Express Line 
3. Customer Service Line
4. Sale/Discount Rack

Ask yourself.... Lord Am I Guilty in any of these areas? 

IF YOU ARE REPENT AND BUILD YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CONSISTENCY AND NOT OUT OF CONVENIENCE!

Remember, if you do not want a part time relationship with your significant other... NEITHER DOES GOD - HE WANTS IT ALL OR NOTHING! 

GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel 

LIBERTY OF GRACE`

"FREEDOM IS NOT FREEDOM IF IT HURTS THE HEART OF GOD"

(Quoted from Joanna Weaver's devotion to Nurture a Mary Heart)

Today Grace is used as a pass-code or a license for many to live life as they want. They want freedom from legalistic rules and bondage.   However, that does not give you permission to live unholy or unrighteous.  

ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS IS SIN!

1 Corinthians 6:12-13 (KJV)
All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body. 

Do not use your freedom for an occasion to the flesh- Galatians 5:13

TODAY'S FOCUS:  USING THE LIBERTY OF GRACE

Hebrews 10:26, 29 (KJV) - 

26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,

29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

Review the above and do a spirit check and answer the following:

• What is your perception of liberty?
• What does the word willfully mean to you
• What are you saying to God when you willfully sin?
• How is the blood of the covenant considered when you sin willifully?
• How would you describe the liberty of Grace?

While all things are lawful, be reminded that Grace does not give liberty to sin.

GOD BLESS AND REMEMBER TO KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel 

STRAIGHT PATHS

LET YOUR EYES LOOK STRAIGHT AHEAD 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  WATCH WHERE YOU'RE STEPPING

Hebrews 12:13 (KJV)

And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.

TLB Version 
And mark out a straight, smooth path for your feet so that those who follow you, though weak and lame, will not fall and hurt themselves but become strong.

Are you aware that there are many people watching and following you?
It could be your child, neighbor, unsaved loved ones/others needing salvation, friend, co-worker, spouse......  

As you reflect on the two versions of scripture and the above statement think on the following:

• Who's watching and or following you?
• How would you feel if they walk just like you walk?
• Is your walk bringing healing or turning others away?

If you are in a position where you your paths are not straight how would you look at someone who is the shadow or duplicate of you? 

Do you see some of your faults and negative qualities in your children or others who are close to you?

How would you explain the last part of the TLB version to those that follow you, though weak and lame, will not fall and hurt themselves but become strong?

Be reminded that you should let your eyes look straight ahead and fix you gaze directly before you and watch your steps.  

God Bless You and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

PLEASURE IN INFIRMITIES

MESSENGER OF SATAN

Have you been praying and calling out to God for something or for a situation to be remedied with no results.  

Perhaps you have fasted or even seek help medically and otherwise, but your condition remains the same.

Let's look at Paul Testimony in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 - (KJV)

 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

TODAY'S FOCUS:  REVELATION 

Reflecting on the above scripture review your situation and answer the questions to the verses given.

• Verse 7 - Examine yourself
•  Is there's a thorn in your flesh?
• Is God revealing something to you in your circumstances?
• Do you recognize the enemy in it?

• Verse 8 - Make it a matter of prayer 
• Have you spoken to God about it?
• Have you put it in God's hand?
• Are you consistent?

• Verse 9 - Acknowledge His Grace
• What are your weaknesses?
• Are you glad or complaining?
• Are you relying on His strength?

• Verse 10 - TAKE PLEASURE
• What are you experiencing?
• Is it for the sake of Christ?
• What areas can you identify weakness in that verse

As you assess the above, note the following: 

• Thorns can be a means of bringing awareness to your character
• His grace is sufficient for you to endure
• His strength is made perfect in your weakness

With this revelation....

You can now take pleasure in your infirmities, when you are reproached, in need, persecuted or in distress, for when you are weak - You are strong.

Remember it is God that worketh in you both to will and do of His good pleasure!  Philippians 2:13

GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

WOMEN'S IDENTITY CONFERENCE INVITATION

I KNOW WHO I AM

Do you struggle with understanding who you are? 

TWIGS Ministry Inc. opens the door to your identity 

SEPTEMBER 19 - 21, 2014 AT TAMARIND REEF RESORT, ST. CROIX VIRGIN ISLANDS

(See flyers for details)  For more details call or email us!

SEE YOU THERE!  GOD BLESS!  KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

THE FORMULA FOR INCREASE

GOD MULTIPLIES THE SEED SOWN

2 Corinthians 9:7-10 Version (KJV)

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

(As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.

Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)

TODAY'S TOPIC:  THE FORMULA 

As you have decided in your heart to give, referencing to the scripture above give some examples of giving:

• Not grudgingly

• Not of necessity

• Cheerfully

List five (5) things that will be harvested from giving cheerfully?

As you reflect on the ways to give and the result of giving, list some things that you give to God and to others

Remember, decide on your giving by giving from your heart; do it cheerfully and not out of compulsion or force.  Know that He who supplies the seed will supply and increase your store of seed.  You will always have to give.  Stand back and watch God enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.  

God Bless - KEEP THE FAITH!

Virtuous Jewel

GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISE!

GOD IS NOT UNRIGHTEOUS - BE PATIENT.....

Hebrews 6: 10-15
For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:

That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself,
Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.
And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.

TODAY'S FOCUS:  GOD IS NOT UNRIGHTEOUS
Do you sometimes feel that God has forgotten you? 

First things first - Reflecting on the scripture, Let's do a Spirit Check

• Are you slothful?
• Are you laboring and ministering for God?
• Are you working in love?
• Are you showing diligence?
• Are you patient and enduring to the end with hope?

If so, think on the things that you are doing for God, in ministry and for others.  Be not slothful, but have faith and patience and you will receive the promises.  

Remember, God keeps His promises!  He swore to it, and because he could find no greater He swore by Himself saying, "Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee."

TRULY HE IS A GOD OF COVENANT AND BLESSINGS!

God Bless and Keep The Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

GOD IS AT WORK

HIS WILL AND PLEASURE

Who do you give credit to for the good things that are happening in your life? 

Are you struggling with desires, dreams and ideas in your spirit and wondering if they are of God?

You are probably in a place right now where you are beginning to question the very thing that you felt that God had given you.  Maybe it's a job, vision, ministry or a personal or spiritual desire, but you struggle and feel that you have lost the joy of it.  

It is natural at times to second guess the things that God is doing in your life. 

BUT KNOW THIS.......Philippians 2:13 (KJV)

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

TODAY'S TOPIC:  HE'S WORKING IN YOU

As you reflect on the above think about the following:

• What desires have God given you?

• What is God doing in your life?

• Are they in line with His word?

• What are your motives?

• Is it selfish or self centered?

• Is it for His Glory?

If your answers are in line with His plans and His will know that it is God that worketh in you!    Don't second guess and don't let anyone talk you out of it

Know that God will perfect that which concerneth you: 

 

Hebrews 13:21 (KJV)

Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Remember, God gives you the desires and will work Himself for what will give Him pleasure. May He equip you with all that you need and work within you to bring Him Glory.

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

TRANSFORMED FOR STRENGTH

CONFESS YOUR STRENGTH

Are you experiencing hardship and weakness in any area of your life?

It's time to declare that you are strong!

Joel 3:9-10 (KJV)          

Proclaim ye this among the Gentiles; Prepare war, wake up the mighty men, let all the men of war draw near; let them come up:

Beat your plowshares into swords and your pruninghooks into spears: let the weak say, I am strong.

Changing Your weapons, mindset and attitude can make a difference for your survival in battle!

TODAY'S FOCUS:  TRANSFORMATION AND CONFESSION

Reflecting on the above scripture we see the proclamation and command given not only to the mighty men but all men of war to change a few things:  

1. Plowshares transform into Swords
2. Pruning hooks transform into Spears
3. Weakness transform to strength

We are constantly at war daily as we face challenges and spiritual battles in our lives.  

Review the scripture and points above and let's discuss:

• What weapons do you have that can be transformed?
• What can you transform it to?
• What weaknesses are you experiencing?
• What confessions will you make?

Remember as you prepare to war begin to change and transform some stuff in your life and confess your strength - You will gain the victory for.... THE BATTLE IS THE LORD'S!

God Bless and Keep The Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

DEAD PAST

DON'T LET YOUR "DEAD PAST" KEEP YOU FROM YOUR GREAT FUTURE!

2 Samuel 12:19-21 (KJV)
19 But when David saw that his servants whispered, David perceived that the child was dead: therefore David said unto his servants, Is the child dead? And they said, He is dead.

20 Then David arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and changed his apparel, and came into the house of the Lord, and worshipped: then he came to his own house; and when he required, they set bread before him, and he did eat.

21 Then said his servants unto him, What thing is this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and weep for the child, while it was alive; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread.

TODAY'S FOCUS:  IT TAKES YOUR WORSHIP!

A reflection of the focus text (you can read the entire chapter) sheds some light on what many experience with Loss.  However, we need to see the message David speaks so loudly.  

1. He prayed, fasted and cried while the child was alive and did not eat
2. He Worshiped and ate after the child died

Many would not be in the mode of worship if they were in his position.  At least not immediately after.  Many hours would be spent in the questions and answers mode, the why me Lord, the guilt, what ifs, what could I have done, poor me.......

David accepted the death of the child and recognized there was nothing else he could do to bring it back.   

WHAT ABOUT YOU?

You may not necessary be experiencing the loss of a loved one but...

Are you allowing something from your past (that's already dead) that you no longer have affecting your present or future happiness?  Let's take a look at....

• What's bothering you?
• Are you grieving over joys departed?
• Are you holding on to broken dreams?
• Are you gripping over something that someone did to you many years ago?
• Are you mopping over what ifs, what could have, what should of.....
• Other?.....

If you find yourself in that place like David ask yourself...

IS IT RECOVERABLE OR IS IT DEAD?

Remember, if it's dead - WORSHIP!  Don't linger in the past, let it go!  If it's dead there's nothing you can do.  You've tried your best, cried, got help, and now it's dead -  Move on and receive the blessings that are already reserved for your future! 

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel