INVENTORY CONTROL

STOCK LEVELS 

As I walk around the card sections of department stores I have seen the signs, "time to reorder" or "sold out" indicating that the stock is running low or is no longer available.  After doing a little meditation and research I would like you to reflect on the following levels and consider your personal stock.  

Maximum Level - Available Stock = Inventory Management
This level calls for inventory management.  This is where you view whether there is enough to meet you/your client demands. Also a good time to see which is less/more likely used.  Perhaps a time to think on which one you may need to order a greater volume.  

Minimum level or Average Level = Time to Reorder
This level is a warning that it is time to reorder.  Immediate action is required to avoid emergency operation. It's also a time to look at which one needs to be advertised or pay more attention to.  

Danger Stock Level = Time for Emergency Purchase 
This level is critical because you stand the risk of running out before the order is received. There's a possibility of not being able to connect to your source on time or other possible delays that can cause you not to have your supply available to meet the various demands. 

Sold Out = TROUBLE
This level is total trouble.  You are exposed to loss, (in case of business you can lose customers, your reputation etc.) your integrity, your joy, hope and get discouraged even to order again. This level also heighten your level of fear, doubt and anxiety.  You may even be exposed to danger and or destruction. 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  SPIRITUAL INVENTORY

Many people today are taking inventory of 2015 and perhaps making new plans for 2016. Here's a question for you -

WHAT IS YOUR INVENTORY LEVEL? 

Before you reply - here's is yet another level to consider it is called....

OVERSTOCK

Definition-

"Supply with more of something than is necessary or required"

"A supply or quantity in excess of demand or requirements"

In the business sense overstock may not be considered the right thing to do.  However, on the spiritual side of things, Overstock is necessary and may even be a requirement as in the story of the Ten Virgins. 

Let's consider how are you stocked up spiritually? (write the level (s) you are at from the list discussed above)-  Reflect on the areas that are necessary for your spiritual journey...

Prayer life, study/devotion, service/community, fruits of the spirit, wisdom/knowledge, relationship with God and men etc....  

Could it be that you are a reprobate and do not wish to improve your spiritual level?

2 Corinthians 13:5-6 (KJV)

Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.  Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 

Remember, inventory management is crucial to your business much more so to your spiritual life.  Don't run the risk of falling in the Danger Stock Level which leads to nothing but severe TROUBLE! Overstock is not bad for your spiritual business but important for times when you are unable to reorder because of circumstances beyond your control.  Go into 2015 with enough supply to assist you in your walk with the Lord!  Know that Christ is in you! 

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

RESTORE THE JOY OF YOUR SALVATION

TRUTH IN THE INWARD PART

Today many are blaming the messages preached in their churches, the lack of love and togetherness among believers, lack of activities for various individual groups and others for their lack of spiritual growth, drought and or spiritual dryness.  

While many of these may be relevant, and play a role in nourishment/development and nurturing of spirituality, there should be some personal accountability taken for your own salvation.  Perhaps it's time to acknowledge and take a look at the truth within.   

Here's David's confession:

Psalm 51: 3-6

For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.

Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight; that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest

Behold I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. 

Behold thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.  

Rather justifying what you have done by pointing out the faults and failures of others, consider the truth in your inward part:

What has taken away the joy of your salvation?

Who are you blaming for your spiritual dryness or demise?

Could it be that you need to face the truth within you?

What sins have you covered, or willingly engaged in?

How willing are you to acknowledge your transgression and seek repentance?

It's time to do some personal reflection to restore the joy of your salvation.  While the church, pastors, spiritual leaders and other laymen are vital to equip, enhance and help in your day to day walk, you will be required to get involved.   It will depend on your willingness for change, renewal and restoration. 

TODAY'S FOCUS:  A WILLING SPIRIT WILL SUSTAIN YOU

What's causing your spiritual dryness may very well be that your spirit is rebellious, lustful or even proud.  It may be a matter of the wrong spirit that is governing your life.  It's a call for renewal of the spirit within you.  

David echoed a cry in Psalm 51 for renewal, but he realized that his iniquity and transgression stood between him and God.  He also realized that it stole his joy.  But more importantly he understood that his acknowledgement of his wrong (not the justification) was relevant for God to renew a right spirit within him.  (verses 3-10)

After David ask the Lord to clean him up, he knew that it would also require a willing spirit to sustain him. He asked the Lord to help him to be obey him.  

Psalm 51: 10-12 (NIV)

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit , to sustain me. 

In the natural a student goes to school and is taught by the teacher.  Although they are given the instructions and guidance, a student must take responsibility for their learning to achieve results. They must do class assignments/homework and other projects relevant to completion of the required courses. They must also participate in class activities and provide feedback and suggestions.  After providing all necessary material/assistance, a teacher cannot be blamed if the student's failure is as a result of them refusing to comply.  

Remember, to restore the joy of your salvation you must come to terms with the truth.  Don't continue to blame others for your disconnection with the Spirit of God, but see where you have fallen short.  Confess your sins, forsake them and ask the Lord to give you the Spirit to obey Him so you can be sustain even in spiritual drought and dry seasons.  When you been restored you can teach others of God's goodness and point them to their own conversion.  

Action:  Please leave a comment on- How can you restore the joy of your salvation?

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

JOSHUA'S POSITION - Part 1

SOME GOOD OLD REMINDERS

Every now and then when we are out of line, God's word tend to remind us of His goodness.  

In the book of Joshua 24, Joshua gathered all the tribe of Israel, called for the elders of Israel, their heads, judges and their officers and they presented themselves before God. Joshua spoke to them, thus saith the Lord: 

• Here are a few of the reminders from Joshua 24
• God took Abram their father from among the false gods and led him through Canaan, multiplied his seed and gave him Isaac
• He spared them from the plaques of Egypt
• He brought them through the red sea and destroyed the Egyptians that pursued them
• He sustained and brought them through a long wilderness journey
• He help them fight and destroyed the Amorites and allowed them to posses their lands
• He did not allow Balaam to curse them
• He brought them safely through the Jordan and delivered them from the men of Jericho and the other nations sending hornets to drive them out 
• He gave them land and cities that they did not labor for, built or purchased. 
• He allowed them to eat from vineyard and oliveyards that they did not plant.  

Joshua's reminder came so they could reflect and make their future choice.  The choice to choose between the gods their father served and The Lord God.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  CHOOSE YOU THIS DAY WHOM YE SHALL SERVE

After Joshua delivered the words of the Lord, he gave a directive that they should fear the Lord, serve Him in sincerity and in truth and put away their gods.

He made a further declaration that if it seem evil to serve the God who has brought them through then he and his family will serve the Lord.  

Joshua 24:15

And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

The people then responded that they will serve God.  However, Joshua was still concerned and reminded them that they cannot serve the Lord God and continue to sin for God is a holy and jealous God.  He will not forgive their transgressions and their sins if they refuse to serve Him truthfully.  

They were also told that if they forsook the Lord He will hurt and consume them after all the good that He has done. The people responded that they will serve the Lord God and His voice they will obey.  

IT'S TIME TO TAKE A JOSHUA STAND! Stop following the majority and serve what seems familiar or comfortable.  Make it a priority to have you family in line.  Be responsible and let it be a family matter. God is calling on the Joshua's of this time to take their position not just for their family but so others can be consciously aware that they too must take a stand to serve in sincerity and truth.   

Do you need a reminder of His goodness?

Are there other gods between you and the Lord God?

Are you saying yes, but still holding on to the things on the other side?

What do you need to give up today?

Remember, reminders are a reflection of the goodness of the Lord.  It is also an awareness to cause you to remember some of the challenges and circumstances that only God could have delivered you from.  Know that God is a jealous God. Take the position of Joshua regardless of who is willing to go forth and serve the Lord God.  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

DON'T BEFRIEND THE THIEF

THE THIEF WILL KILL YOU

In the natural a person of integrity would not want to be known or be seen with a notorious thief.  That would cause you to be looked as a thief also by association.  It would also put you under suspicion as a thief more than likely has criminal tendencies.   

In the gospel of John the Lord makes the intentions of the thief very clear.  His motives are specifically outlined to his character.  

John 10:10 (KJV) 

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

There are three things that are certain and marks the character of the thief: He steals, kills and destroys.  Knowing that, why would people befriend a thief knowing that there is a possibility that he will destroy them after he has taken their stuff? The logic behind that can be very debatable and questionable.   

The thief cannot hurt you from afar so he lures you and entices you into a friendship. He will make you comfortable and make you promises that he know he won't keep.  He may offer some trinkets and gifts from his stolen loot so you can trust him, and let your guard down.  He may even connect you with other thieves which may seem like opportunities you were looking for.  However, once you are friends with the thief you are subjected to becoming his prey, and he will have complete and authoritative control over you.  

Think about this for a minute- It's your friends that can hurt you because you open up to them and draw them close.  They know your secrets, what bothers you, what makes you happy or sad and what ticks you off. So now that you are friends the thief, knows your ins and outs. He sees your vulnerability and knows your weakness.  He has privileged information about you and will use it against you.  That's the reason for the friendship in the first place.  

It may seem like the thief has come to rescue you or help you, but that's the opportunity he uses to pounce on you and use your vulnerability to harm you.  Is important to know who the thief is and recognize when he is around. 

Do you know who the thief is?

Are you friends with him?

What information have you given him?

What keys have you handed over to him?  (your heart, passion, dreams etc.) 

What things has he stolen from you?

The moment of truth has come.  You have the choice of friendship- which will you choose?

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE CHOICE OF FRIENDSHIP

The second part of the verse above speaks of another who does not want to kill, steal or destroy you but to give you life- Not just any kind of life, but life more abundantly.  This gives you a choice to choose.

THE GOOD SHEPHERD 

Gives His life for the sheep- He will fight for you and save you from the thief that wants to destroy you.

John 10:11
I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep

Note the difference between the two- 

The first comes to steal from you, kill and destroy you. He will use you, abuse you and cause you anguish before he ultimately destroys you. 

The second wants to give you life abundantly. As a matter of fact He will fight for you and even give His life for you.  Knowing this, why would you choose to be friends with the devil, go places with him or do what he asks you to do when you can choose Jesus, the Good Shepherd, the one who wants to fight for you and has already given His life for you?

Remember, the choice to choose is yours.  Would it be the thief, the enemy the devil who has already been defeated and wants your company for eternal destruction or would it be Jesus, the Good Shepherd who gave His life so you can live, wants to give you abundant life now and an opportunity for everlasting life?  It has been proven that the Good Shepherd is the right choice because the best friend to have is Jesus!

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

SINCERE FRIENDSHIP

LUST CAUSES WARS

In James 4 the bible states that quarrels, fighting and wars come from lusts that wars in your members.  You want what others have, and therefore the reason for many killings and other violent acts.  

The reason you don't have is because you do not ask God for it.  Even when you do ask, you ask with the wrong motive and only what gives you pleasure.  You may do it do compete or to belittle others. 

True friendship is built on love and trust. If you love you will also be loyal and faithful. You will not be deceitful or cunning, but you will embrace honesty and truth.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  FRIENDSHIP OF THE WORLD IS ENMITY WITH GOD 

James 4:4 (KJV)

Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

God's love and friendship is far better than any you can find.  Don't let your lust cause you to cheat.  The Holy Spirit that God has placed within you watches your actions with tender jealousy.  

God calls you a friend when you do whatsoever He ask of you.  However,

 once you become a friend of the world you become an enemy to God.  That will put you in line with the destruction that comes to God's enemy, and you can be consumed by His wrath that is reserved to His enemies.

Got resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble.  Get serious- quit playing with sin and stop the back and forth games.  Say a quiet yes to God, and tell the devil no when he tempts you or tries to make you seek after his pleasures.  

As you reflect on the scripture do a soul search about your friendship with God: 

Are you a cheater or a flirt?

Are you willfully proud or humble?

Is your life marked by graffiti? 

Are you a loyal and a faithful friend? 

Remember,  be a sincere friend.  Don't seek to have you own way.  Don't ask for things that you have no right to because you will not receive it.  Don't flirt with the world, it will make God jealous.  True friends are honest with you, they don't always let you have your way, because they have your best interest at heart.  So appreciate the fact that God releases what is good for you.  Be humble, and let His perfect will be manifested in your life through His grace and love.  

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

SONGS OF PRAISE

EVERYDAY IS THANKSGIVING

The national Thanksgiving Day has passed and we honor the heritage. However, for the children of God everyday is a Thanksgiving Day!

Psalm 69:30 (KJV)

I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.

You may be overwhelmed with life's circumstances right now, and the least you want to do is to thank God. Perhaps you may feel He doesn't love you or is responsible for your loss, pain or affliction. I suggest that you stop now and reflect over your life. Get a piece of paper and list the things that God has done. I assure you that by the 4th or 5th thing your heart will begin to give thanks at the amazing and miraculous things that he has done!

TODAY'S FOCUS: A SONG OF THANKSGIVING

Song writers have written songs of their experiences, journeys an desires. Many have written about God's mercy, love and compassion. I don't think of anyone who understands it like David as he wrote and sang in the Psalms.

Psalms 86:13 (KJV)

For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou has delivered my soul from the lowest hell.

God has done so much for you. Words at times cannot express your gratitude. However, many times a song can express your experience and your love to a faithful God. Today I would like to ask what song that speaks to your heart in Thanksgiving?

What effect does a song of praise do for you?

Explain why it speaks to you?

Remember, God requires that we give Him praise, which is the fruit of our lips continually. In the good times and the bad times, praise Him with a song and magnify Him with a grateful heart. Be thankful for what you have and what you would like to have- Praising Him in advance will release your request to you.

God Bless You and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

SPECIAL DELIVERY

SPECIAL DELIVERY

Hi Friends for the past two weeks I have been challenged by my phone and internet services as I have been traveling.  But wanted to share this with you as a blog today.  

We will get back to the regular blogs next week God's willing.  

GOD IS SO FAITHFUL!  

My Daddy is better than Express or Priority Mail. 

He Hand Delivers - Glory to God!!!

I know most of you think that my posts are long, but I can't help expressing the goodness of God. We have begun to experience the results of our Ten Times Mores Fasting.

After our graduation of A Jewel In His Crown by Priscilla Shirer, we were contemplating what to do next when we came across several books by Priscilla Shirer to include War Room study series. Since most people have not seen the movie, we decided that we would go with Fervent and then do the War Room series after. We ordered two copies and decided that we would read it during the month of December so we would be prepared to set up the sessions accordingly.

Needless to say the book never came when we expected it. The morning before leaving for the women's retreat I went to the Post Office to see if it came and began questioning a little if we should do this book. Left for Miami then to the retreat in Georgia- But God!!!

I was handed a package by the president of Omega Sisters, Rolda Serieuxand her prophetic words....... you and only you will ........ and yes I went WOW!
For lo and behold wrapped and specially hand delivered to me at my destination was the book, Fervent!

You don't need to shout but I will..... GLORRRRRRRRAAAAY!
Daddy has heard my cry to see Him at work in my life, to see the manifestation of signs and wonders to SEE HIM! Why didn't the book come before I left or why didn't I buy it like I wanted to in Miami, why in Norman Park, Georgia He answered? I may never know but....

Fervent is the book for the season because we have a real enemy who is dead set to kill, steal and to destroy!

Thank You Lord for confirming that this is the journey we need to be on.

I invite you as women of God to join us- Stay tune for the schedule to be posted later this month. I told you all - SPRINGTIME IS COMING!!!
IT SHALL COME TO PASS!

LET'S TAKE A PRAISE BREAK AND SHOUT....... HALLELUJAH!!!!!

Get your copy and get ready for the sessions!

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

FRIENDSHIP A VALUABLE TREASURE

BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF FRIENDSHIP

Friendship is a gift that should be valued and treasured.  It seem to be a scarce commodity today - FRIENDS are people who treat you like.....

Family and appreciate your friendship

Respects you/your decisions

Integrity is one of their strengths and wouldn't sabotage you or your image

Empathetic in your circumstances

Never judges or speak negatively of you, your home and relationship

Dedicated to the friendship and demands nothing from you and are very

Sincere to the finish

There are many examples of friendship in the bible that reflects value and demonstrate the above acronym: 

Ruth and Naomi - Ruth 1:16-17

David and Jonathan - 1 Samuel 18: 1-3

Job and his friends - Job 2:11

Elijah and Elisha - 2 Kings 2:2

Although there were many struggles with the friendships above, the loyalty, love and forgiveness were demonstrated and strengthened the friendship.  

Do you have any loyal friends?  (List them)

Can you relate to any of the friendships above?

If so which one are you?

TODAY'S FOCUS:  THE GOLDEN RULE

Most people complain about their friend/friendship, however, the golden rule is not always applied.  Let's take a look at it in Luke 6: 31 (KJV)

And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.

What are some of the experiences that you have had with your friends?

What are the challenges faced with your friendships?

What do you contribute to your friendships?

Are you part of the Challenge?

Many complain about their friends and what they have done to them. However, what should be considered most importantly is that you are a genuine friend.

Review the following scriptures and let's discuss - How should friends be treated?

Romans 12: 10

Ephesians 4: 29-32

Colossians 3: 12-14

Here's some even greater news - Your greatest friend is God! 

How is your relationship with Him?

Are you loyal and faithful to Him?

Take a look at the following scripture and see how you measure up.

James 4:8 (KJV)

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

Spending time with your friends are also precious. It's important to make good memories. It doesn't have to be at church or at the office, but take time to cultivate, nurture and HAVE FUN! Don't be too heavenly minded and not of any earthly good. As you think on becoming a better and more sincere friend, here are some quotes to think on:

C.S. Lewis Friendship Quotes

“Is any pleasure on earth as great as a circle of Christian friends by a good fire?”

“The next best thing to being wise oneself is to live in a circle of those who are.”

Remember, Your greatest friend is the Lord. Friends are people who will walk and talk with you daily, but yet know when you need space and quiet times. They will invest in you with their time and resources and will not talk about it. Like Jesus even when you don't hear from them you know they love you and are thinking about you. Genuine friendship is a gift - Treasure it!

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

A FRESH SUPPLY

NEW EVERY MORNING

As consumers we all love fresh produce.  Won't it be nice if every morning you could get a fresh supply delivered to your door- strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, bananas and all the local fruits and vegetables you want, and as fresh as can be?

Oh yes, it would be a delight to have them especially as you think of all the pesticides and other chemicals that are used in the process.  

Well, here's some good news on a fresh supply that is new every morning.  It is not a left over from yesterday, but a production made with compassion.  It never fails because the Producer is consistent, and makes the supply enough for one day. 

Lamentations 3: 22-23 (KJV)

It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not.  

They are new every morning.  

God's mercies are a produce of compassion.  His faithfulness to open each new day with mercy begins in the night.  Even when you are asleep mercy is in the making so that you have a fresh supply when morning comes.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  GOD MAKES GOOD HIS PROMISES   

Because of His faithfulness you should never loose your faith. The discovery of this colors your world with hope.  It affords you the opportunity to try again.  It allows you to begin anew, get a new start, forget yesterdays mistakes, worries and troubles.  

In the book of Lamentations 3, Jeremiah (known as the weeping prophet) laments and cries about his travails.  As you read the chapter and you will see that he was in a really bad state, physically, emotionally and spiritually.  His thinking was so distorted that his very soul was uneasy.  He had no peace and forgot what it was like to prosper.  He confessed that his strength and hope perished, but when His memory reflected on the goodness and mercies of God he had hope.   

Lamentations 3: 21, 24-25

This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.

The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in Him. 

The Lord is good unto them that wait for Him, to the soul that seeketh him.

Your hope comes as you claim Christ as your Savior and Lord. It is also important to have hope and wait quietly on God.  Not fretting and fussing but seeking Him in the midst of your trouble.  Resting in His promises, because of His faithfulness. Take some time and reflect on what God has done for you. 

Remember, reflect on God's mercies and faithfulness and you will have hope.  Each day comes with a fresh supply.  God will make good His promises to those who wait and seek Him.  Your circumstances are a good reason to turn to Him quietly waiting in hope. 

God Bless you and Keep the faith!

Virtuous Jewel

SIMPLY BE YOU

IDENTITY CRISIS EXPERIENCE

Today many people are confused about who they are because they have allowed themselves to be defined by their circumstances, surroundings or labels put on them by others.  Let's take a look at a few examples of men who were in identity crisis and how they responded to the crisis.

Moses was the son of a Hebrew slave who through circumstances was raised by Pharaoh's daughter.  When faced with a crisis, he knew his true identity which led him to his purpose and refused to continue under the identity that he was named.  

His Response to crisis: 

Hebrews 11:24 (KJV)

By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;

 

Joseph was the son of Jacob who was loved and because of the jealousy of his brethren caused him to encounter a journey of identity crisis.  He was challenged by the continuous change of circumstances that he had to adjust so he could maintain his identity.  He was dropped in a pit, sold as a slave, thrown in prison and promoted to governor. Yet he didn't forget his upbringing or his heritage.

Genesis 39:7-12

And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me.But he refused, and said unto his master's wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand;There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkened not unto her, to lie by her, or to be with her.And it came to pass about this time, that Joseph went into the house to do his business; and there was none of the men of the house there within.And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.

Daniel was a young man who was captured along with some others and taken into Babylon. Despite the instructions given to the prince of the Eunuch, he refused to change his standards to what was introduced as the finest and best.

Daniel 1:8

But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.

There are several other men and women of scripture who chose to keep their identity and were not challenged by their surroundings, circumstances or environment. They did not bow down but rose to the challenges faced even when faced with diverse adversities.  

How about you - How are you challenged? 

Do you change with the times? (how and why were you affected)

Are you a different person in different environments?

Are you defined by what others say to or about you?

TODAY'S FOCUS:  LIBERATE YOURSELF

Are you at a crossroad trying to make a decision that can affect your identity? '

The above scripture experiences reflect that the circumstances or what they were exposed to did not change their identity because they knew who they were.

THE REMEDY FOR IDENTITY CRISIS IS TO SIMPLY BE YOU!

Refuse to wear someone else's identity.  Moses did- David also did when Saul wanted him to fight the giant Goliath with his armor.  He chose what he was confident in. Like the old adage states, "be confident in your own skin."

Are you confused by the labels others have put on you?  You are in a crisis because you are beginning to identity what others have said to be truth about you.  As a result you are becoming a prisoner to your thoughts, habits and words spoken.  

Chose to liberate yourself by simply being you.  Wear your style, speak your dialect and use your own accent.  You don't have to disguise yourself or pretend to be who you are not.  Trying to be someone else will prevent you from living a full life. You will be more vulnerable and prone to mistakes because you will not be free to operate as you.  

Like a tomato are you wondering if you are a fruit or a vegetable? Someone has probably told you that you are too black, too white, too skinny, too fat, to religious or perhaps you are not good enough, smart, righteous, rich enough etc.... Don't listen to the voices and opinion of others.  Don't be pressured to choose or switch to please.  

Remember, your surroundings, heritage or circumstances does not identify you.  You are who God says you are.  You trust, confidence and hope should be in simply being the you that God has created.  You are a unique person and was created for a specific purpose - Be the best you! 

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

DOUBT IS A FAITH SINKER

IT'S A TRUST ISSUE

Many people go through the journey of life with uneasiness and reservations with people and or about issues they face.  If there is a proven record of security and hope and doubt exists it may be a matter of trust. 

The dictionary's meaning for doubt is:
noun
1. a feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction.

verb
1. feel uncertain about.2. archaic - fear; be afraid of.

synonyms:  uncertainty, unsureness, indecision, hesitation, suspicion, confusion; queries, questions; indecision, insecurity, unease, uneasiness, , uneasiness,  wariness, leeriness; reservations, misgivings,

Doubt is a trust issue which can be cured by the word- Google your cure!
Matthew 12:21 (KJV)
And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.
What are your doubts?
Are you perhaps having trust issues?
Perhaps you have not proven or have confidence in the person who has given you given you the diagnosis or the cure.  

If you are having a trust issue, there is definitely doubt in your mind and spirit.  A person who is truly trusting will have no doubt.  They would believe and trust in the one one who spoke to them, what was said to them and about them regardless of the circumstances.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  FAITH SINKER

Many times when faced with an issue and you are given a remedy hope will rise within you. Then the evidence shows up......

What issues are you facing?

What does the evidence look like?

Is your faith sinking?

Here are some examples to consider:

• Bad doctor's report - evidence of the illness makes you lose hope
• Trouble in your relationship - situation gets worse and you are no longer communicating without an arguement
• Unemployed - you got an interview but you are the oldest applicant and are afraid you will not be chosen

Are you in the middle of a crisis?  The evidence will cause you to doubt if your faith is weak and you trust is unsettled.  

Doubt will cause your faith to sink - Let's ask an expert like Peter

Matthew 14:27-33 (KJV)

But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.                                                                                        

And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.

And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased.Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.  
When the disciples saw Jesus walking on the sea they were troubled and cried out in fear.  They panicked and thought He was a spirit. Then Jesus spoke and Peter asked to confirm who He was by allowing him to come to him on the water. Jesus said, come, and he moved out in faith.

Peter was doing fine, but when he looked at his circumstances (the boisterous winds) and recognized where he was he doubted and began to sink.  His trust was removed, and his faith was gone when he gave way to doubt.  He looked around him instead of to Jesus.  You too may have taken your eyes off of Jesus and are focusing more on your situation or condition, doctor's report, past due bills etc... There's hope!

Remember, doubt is a faith sinker.  Faith will keep you afloat. Keep your eyes on Jesus.   If he has called you, He is faithful to hold you up and keep you in the midst of a faith Lifter and Anchor!  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel