PLAN WITH GOD

PLAN WITH COMMON SENSE

God wants you to use wisdom and natural common sense in your plans for life or ministry.  Therefore, it is important that you weigh the possibilities, risks, benefits, purpose and desired outcome before executing a plan.  Most importantly it should be in line with the principles of God.

Too many times people sit back and say they are waiting on God and put the responsibility on God especially when things work out bad.  But God directs the steps that you chose, and He takes delight when you take each step towards purpose! 

Psalm 37:23-24 (KJV)

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.

Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand.

TODAY'S FOCUS: PLANNING WITH THE WORD

Is it very important that your plans line up with God's word so you can reap the benefits of verse 24 of the scripture above.

First, it's for those of a good man whose steps are ordered by God. So if there's a fall, he will not be down for long because God has a grip of his hand. It is so clear that if your plans are with the word you will get the protection and covering when your steps slip. That is a guarantee when you plan with God. Your plans will line up with things that are godly, they will be sound, they will be of good report, honest and bring honor to God and blessing to others.

As you think and reflect on the above let's discuss your plans?

• How is your planning health?
• Are they in line with the scriptures?
• Are they in line with your primary beliefs and values?
• Are they God's plans for you?
• Are they plans others have given you?

Remember, for your plans to succeed and to receive the covering of the word, your plans must be in line with the word. God will not honor a plan that's outside of His principles and guidelines. Plan with God in the event of a fall he will have your hand in His. His plans for you are good and not evil. Trust that He will bring it to an expectant end.

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

HAPPY 3RD ANNIVERSARY TWIGS MINISTRY - September 22, 2015

CONGRATULATIONS ON OUR 3RD ANNIVERSARY!

Three years ago today, TWIGS Ministry, embarked on a mission and purpose as an individual ministry to fulfill Isaiah 61: 1-7

We have come a long way despite the odds, the critics, the challenges.... but through God's mercies, love and faithfulness...

WE ARE STILL HERE!!!

We have developed as promised through the city of traffic as our message through the blogs has reached many countries with a total of a remarkable 7,631 views.  

United States - 4597
U.S. Virgin Islands - 1359
Russia - 234
Malaysia - 225
Turkey - 200
France - 132
Ukraine - 111
Germany - 87
Poland - 80
Iraq - 46

We are a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and have a place of worship at #1 B Humbug.  We have also opened up an outreach house at 20 Two Brothers in Frederiksted.  We are now equipped and ready to take the gospel to our community, territory, region and the world- Revival Fire opens up the doors for Evangelism!

God has truly been good to us- We acknowledge and are thankful for faithful members of our ministry who have served and remain committed,  and our very loving, loyal and supportive prayer partners, warriors, friends and family.  Our hearts are truly grateful to all who have shared our burdens and loved us through the process.  We couldn't have made it without you!

A very deep appreciation goes out to the Bishop of our ministry, Bishop Melvin Rhymer for His continued steadfastness and diligence to stay in prayer and faith - He is a true representative and witness of Christ Jesus here on earth!  

We invite you to celebrate with us tonight at 7:00 PM as we close off our celebration in praise, prayer and a word....

WHAT DOES REVIVAL CAUSE?   Heartburn!

Luke 24:32 (KJV)

And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?

May God Bless you and keep you as you Keep the Faith!

Your servant in Christ Jesus

Pastor Julie Modeste-Rhymer

OPPORTUNITY BRINGS OPPOSITION

OPPORTUNITY VS OPPOSITION

OPPORTUNITY: 

By definition opportunity means, "a set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something; a chance for employment or promotion.

OPPOSITION:
For the purpose of this topic we will use the following definition:
"resistance or dissent, expressed in action or argument; a group of adversaries or competitors."

The apostle, Paul's opportunity to preach and to teach the gospel of Christ brought on some opposition and enemies.  
1 Corinthians 16:9 (KJV)
For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.

As you reflect on these definition, what are your thoughts regarding your opportunities - to do something or be promoted?

• What has hindered you from moving forward?
• Who has hindered you from accepting?
• Are you listening to the critics or faithless?

1 Peter 4:12 encourages you that you should not think it strange as if some strange thing is happening to you.  It's because your glory is around the corner.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  DON'T JUMP TO CONCLUSION

Don't jump to quickly to a conclusion when opposition shows up with your opportunity.  It may be the very thing you need to let you know that you are on the right track or give you the fuel that you need to go forward.  

1 Peter 4:12-15 (KJV)

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

When you are faced with opposition, here's a few insights from verses 12-13 from The Message version:

• Don't jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job
• Be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced.
• This is a spiritual refining process

When life get's difficult or you may be exposed to opposition consider rejoicing.  Get in a praise mode because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.  Be happy inasmuch as you are partakers of Christ sufferings God is glorified when you are being reproached for Christ. 

Remember, oppositions can be opportunities for change, deliverance and spiritual growth.  Rejoice when you are opposed for the sake of Christ, and consider yourself blessed to be reproached for His sake. Stay in faith- it is a spiritual refining process and your glory is just around the corner.

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

THE NEED FOR COUNSELORS

SAFETY

Paul was arrested by the Lord when he was on a mission to destroy Christians.  After his encounter he was was unable to see and was guided by the hand by the men who journeyed with him to safety. 

Proverbs 11:14 (KJV)

Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is 

safety.  

Without good direction most people lose their way.  But it is important that you use wisdom when choosing a counselor.  If your counselor is not wise or their motives are not pure and sincere you may get lost and suffer severe consequences.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  SUCCESS OF YOUR PLANS AND PURPOSE

Proverbs 15:22 (KJV)

Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established. 

Counselors are needed for the success of your plans and purpose. Any one building or entering into a business seeks counsel from the experts for various reasons- (zoning, codes, costs, market and clientele for the business, location etc... ) If counsel is not sought out before, plans can be delayed, held back diminish or destroyed.  

It is also important to seek counsel beside your own. You could have a one sided view, but pursuing the advise of wise godly counselors may avoid disappointment.

Proverbs 12:15 (KJV) The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

Many people have also failed, because even though they sought advice they did not follow. Some have suffered badly and some have never recovered. Do you need directions or counsel? Ask yourself:

•  How have you been counseling yourself?
• Have they been wise?
• Would you need the advice of counselors?
• Who?
• Do you need more than one opinion?
• What are their qualifications/beliefs/background etc...
• What are their motives?
• What are the benefits for you?
• What can result from not following?

Remember, God directs through the counsel of friends.  Counselors are necessary to lead you to safety.  However, you must Choose them wisely.  Don't be a fool, but  be wise- listen to counsel.  Refusing to accept and or follow good advice can cause your plans to fail, but adhering to counsel will allow you to succeed.  See to it that you accept counsel that's based on the word of God.                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel 

PRINCIPLES OF LIVING

THE ACT OF ADULTERY

When God gives us principles for living, it is for the good of your health and spirit.

Exodus 20:14 (KJV)
Thou shalt not commit adultery.

Adultery brings on various problems to include but not limited to sexual diseases, emotional and mental issues, lead to murder, moral and social distress and can create other legal setbacks.

Adultery is not just in the act but also in thought and spirit. The scripture states that one can commit adultery by looking. Today ask yourself...
What are some of the ways you can commit adultery without committing the act?

It is important to follow the principles of living as He directs by doing a self-examination of your mind, soul and body. Ask yourself questions about your relationship with God, question your motives and outlook of life and recognize the need to change and or correct any area of weakness/sin. 

TODAY'S FOCUS: FELLOWSHIP AND COMMUNION

Paul wrote to the Corinthians about being unequally yoked and used the analogy of light and darkness:

2 Corinthians 6:14 (KJV) Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

In view of the scripture quoted above answer the following questions as it relates to you personally....
What does that scripture speak to you?
What does fellowship and communion mean here?
How are the two different or similar?
What is the difference between light and darkness?
Where do you see yourself?
Is there an in-between or medium? why/why not

Paul's experience on the Damascus journey led him to have an encounter with the Light. He was living in darkness even if he felt he was doing right. The same can happen to people of the light. Theories, ideologies, methodologies, and other means of culture, creed or philosophies can entice and bring you out of the light. Even good intent can be crafty and self centered bringing profit with the wrong motives.

Take time out to read the apostle Paul's story in Acts 9 and see how the light transform him out of darkness. When the light shone around him, he immediately fell to the ground. He did not hesitate but ask questions, "Who art thou Lord", and "Lord, what would thou have me to do?"
What's holding you back from accepting the Light?
Are you focus on the distractions?
Are you commissioned with the wrong purpose?

Remember, God has designed principles of living for your guidance and salvation. He calls you from darkness into the marvelous light and wants you to remain steadfast observing principles and obeying commands. He keeps covenant with those who are obedient and faithful. It is important to watch your actions, but it is even more important to watch your thoughts and intent of your mission, and purpose. Despite of some of the good intentions and benefits, you should always be in fellowship and communion with people of light. Upholding to these principles and making the right choice of fellowship will allow God's light to shine on others who are in darkness.
God Bless you and Keep the Faith

Virtuous Jewel

THE NEED FOR A DOCTOR

WHO NEEDS A DOCTOR

Jesus was continuously criticized for his actions especially in relationship with sinners.  In Mark 2, He saw Levi the son of Alphaeus and asked him to follow Him. Without hesitation Levi followed.    

As Jesus sat and ate with him, many publicans and sinners also sat with Jesus and His disciples.  When the Pharisees saw Him eating with publicans and sinners they were astonished and questioned the disciples.  Here's how Jesus answered in verse 17.

Mark 2:17 (KJV) When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

The analogy used signifying that those who are healthy does not need a doctor, but sick people do. In like manner the spiritually-fit, "holier than thou", pharisees does not need saving but those who are sin-sick.

Just as a doctor sees a possible cure in a sick patient, Jesus sees the sinners "good", and wants to give them the opportunity to repent and get well so they can be made whole again.

The truth of the matter is - No one is beyond the reach of God's Love.  He wants the sin-sick soul.  He does not discriminate or pick favorites. 

They must be just willing to follow as Levi and open up their hearts to Him.

He calls all and invites all to be a part of His redemptive and restorative plan.  He has a soft spot for the broken.  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  A BRUISED REED AND A SMOKING FLAX

How does the scripture speak to you? 

Isaiah 42: 3-4 (KJV)

A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth.He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law.

This was fulfilled when Jesus healed the man with the withered hand- (Read the story in Matthew 12) Reflect on verse 20 for your comfort and peace:

Matthew 12:20 (KJV)

A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.

As you read the words spoken by the prophet Isaiah and review the story of its fulfillment let's discuss the following:  

Are you a bruised reed or a smoking flax?

What does that mean to you?

How are you bruised?

What's choking your flax?

How do you think Jesus feels about you?

Do you know someone you can give hope of this scripture today?

Jesus is compassionate about His commitment to the broken, crushed, abandoned and desolate.  Jesus didn't come for the perfect reeds, neither did He came for those whose wicks were burning bright. He came looking for those who knew of their need for him and those who light were smoking and going out.  

Today I encourage you not to worry about the sneer of the Pharisees and how they may categorize you.  Jesus is not going to extinguish your light.  Don't quit - Verse 4 gives hope to the discouraged.  Jesus did not give up, but He completed the task that he was sent out to do.  He will bind up your brokenness and give you a fresh supply of oil so you can have your light burning bright again.  

Remember, Jesus came for those who were afflicted, worn out, distressed and rejected.  That does not mean you will not be battered or bruised along the journey, but you will not be broken when you are weak nor will your light go out when your wick is smoking.  Broken by sorrow or cast down by others?  There is hope. God is able to redeem you even when everyone has given up on you.  Turn your eyes upon Him, and look full in His wonderful face. Through His eyes only will you see the plans He has for you.  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS

LISTEN IN OBEDIENCE

Are you concerned more about who gives the message than the message itself.  This does not mean that you should be led by every wind of doctrine or anyone who claims to be a messenger of God.  However, have you gotten a word, an assignment or a direct warning from God and procrastinate or directly disobeyed?

Read the story of Balaam in Numbers 22, and you will note the remarkable experience of God's way of dealing with disobedience. Fortunately for Balaam, he was spared through his donkey.  It appears that the donkey who is considered to be a stupid animal saved his life.  God will use whatever means it takes for you to listen to Him.  

Numbers 22: 28-31
And the Lord opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?
And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee.
And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? and he said, Nay.
Then the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face.

Will it take a donkey or would you willingly listen to the voice of the spirit within?
Pay attention and make it your decision to follow the voice of God in obedience.

TODAY'S FOCUS:  LISTEN FOR THE MESSAGE

The apostle Paul saw things in another light when the brethren expressed how the message of Christ was being preached.  Listen to his response to them....

Philippians 1:18 

What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretense, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.

Perhaps you are contemplating whether to receive a message from someone who does not appear to be "godly" or even spiritual.  But here are a few things to consider:

• Has God spoken to you about this before?
• Was it something that you asked God about?
• Is it in line with the word? 
• Is it morally and ethically good?
• Is it a warning of something that you are doing wrong?
• Is God using a donkey to protect you?

In the verse above it may appear to many that Paul is contradicting himself.  In some places he speaks concerning false brethren and people without the truth, yet he is making the statement that he will rejoice whether  Christ is preached in pretense or truth.

God is a just God, but He will also not tolerate disobedience.  When you do not walk in obedience to a command given, you are also setting up yourself to be spoken to by what you may consider insignificant like the donkey in the experience of Balaam.  

Does it really matter who speaks if it is a means of saving your life? 

Numbers 23:19

God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

Remember, God is a faithful God.  His plan is not to destroy or punish you.  He will go the extra mile to get your attention even if He has to let an insignificant animal or person speak and reiterate His word.  He will make good whatever He promises- Blessings or curses.  Listen in obedience.  Do not concentrate on the messenger, but listen to the message for it could save your life.  

God Bless and Keep The Faith

Virtuous Jewel

A PHARISEE'S VIEW

SEE THE NEED OF SAVING

The way you view a sinner will determine whether you have a Pharisee's view or seeing through the eyes of Jesus.  

DON'T BE LIKE THE PHARISEES

Don't sneer at the sinner - He/she deserves salvation for he/she also is the son or daughter of Abraham. Give God a chance to work on His masterpiece before you criticize or condemn.  Jesus saw the seed of Abraham in Zacchaeus despite his flaws what He saw, knew and even heard what others said about him.  

Read this wonderful and beautifully illustrated story..... in Luke 19: 1-10 and after reading and analyzing the message, think on the following:

• What would you do if you were Jesus?
• Would you go to Zacchaeus house knowing what you knew about him?
• What view would you have? 
• A Pharisee - Too holy to mingle
• Jesus - Seeing the need for salvation
• What is your approach like to sinners?
• What type of conversation do you have about them?

What about you?  Do you see your need for salvation, restoration or redemption?  The Lord is a Specialist in redeeming and restoring.

TODAY'S FOCUS: THROUGH THE EYES OF A SAVIOR

In the illustrative story it is important to note that Zacchaeus saw his own need.  Even though he was the chief among the publicans and was rich, he sought out to see Jesus.  Even though he was challenged by his height, he

 made no excuse to catch a glimpse of the Savior. He climbed into a sycomore tree in a visible place both to see and be seen. (Luke 19: 1-3)

When Jesus came to the place, he looked up, saw him and called Him by his name.   He didn't say, sir, you, sinner or used another label but called....  Z A C C H A E U S!

This is where it gets interesting- He didn't wait to be invited, but

He told Zacchaeus that He was going to be a guest in his house that day.  

Zacchaeus didn't argue or complained about the condition of his house or about who he was, but he was excited and immediately climbed down from the tree and took Jesus home with him.  That upset the Pharisees and those around that Jesus would be a guest with a sinner man and one like the crook, tax collector Zacchaeus.  

It was obvious that Zacchaeus had a reputation that made them feel that way, but Zacchaeus stood and confessed that he would be a distributor and restorer.  It's in that awareness that Jesus spoke, and Zacchaeus saw love through the eyes of a Savior.  Embraced by love, recovered through salvation as the son of Abraham.  

The words, "the Son of man has come to seek and to save that which was lost", is still resounding today to those who like Zacchaeus will see the need and be joyful in accepting Him as their Lord and Savior. Here's what He is saying to you:

Mark 2: 16:17 

And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners?

When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

While the critics are criticizing and condemning it is still your responsibility to want God.  Let me ask you...

• How strong is your need to see Him?
• What is your excuse to decline His invitation to dine with you?
• Are you paying attention to the voices around you or are you focus on your guest?
• Are you ready to give back what you have withheld and more?

Today, Salvation is come to your house- Make room for the Guest of Honor!

Remember, He came not to call the righteous, but sinners who have become aware of their need of saving.  You must view yourself and others from the eyes of a loving Savior and not from a Pharisee's view of things. There's is no excuse for the person who really wants to do or see something.  Like Zacchaeus you will find a way. Position yourself in the place where Jesus will be present or passing- go to church, read the word call up a prayer line, read a good inspirational book and pray.  He will restore, revive and save all the lost children of Abraham. Make that choice!

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel

 

DESIGNED FOR GREATNESS - YOU ARE BRILLIANT

BEGIN WITH CONFIDENCE

The Apostle Paul wrote to the leaders and brethren of Philippi, and because of the good work they were doing, he had great confidence in the Lord's ability to finish

what He started in them. His prayer for them is that God will also give them more knowledge and insight as they abound in love for others.

Philippians 1:6 KJV -

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

REMAIN OBEDIENT

Obedience will allow God to keep His promise to you and lead you with kindness and truth.

Psalm 25:10 (TLB)

And when we obey him, every path he guides us on is fragrant with his loving-kindness and his truth.

If you are confident that God has called you and planted the seed, mission or vision within you, you will have no choice but to be obedient.  

Obedience begins with moving forward, accepting and believing that He who called you is faithful.

Perhaps you are a procrastinator and waiting for the right moment, when you have all that it requires or perhaps you have difficulty remaining focus and finishing what you have started.

TODAY'S FOCUS: PERSEVERANCE PURSUES OBEDIENCE

When you are designed for greatness it will require perseverance. Your faith will be tested, but it produces endurance so that you may be perfect and complete.

Our Identity journey - A Jewel in His Crown by Priscilla Shirer, reminds us that we are brilliant and that God has given us great ideas, talents, gifts, professions, abilities, etc... to do good works and shine as a Jewel in the King's court.  She states....

"Jesus has promised that He will be faithful to complete the good work He began in you the moment you became a woman in the King's court. You are His rare Jewel, and He is determined to refine you into the most brilliant gemstone possible."

WHAT HAS GOD CALLED YOU TO DO?

Perhaps you have been called to go on the mission field and help spread the gospel, write a book, open a business, support a cause, partner with a ministry or embark on a spiritual journey being a channel and resource to others.  

• Are you confident enough to believe that God will work through you?
• Are you walking in obedience and truth?
• Are you procrastinating or delaying?

It may be that you have lost the patience to persevere. You are probably facing some road blocks and other hindrances. It may seem like it is taking longer than you anticipated or perhaps you have lost your focus and need to redirect your energy in the right things.  

God is in control, and understanding that will help you to apply the following:

James 1:3-4 (KJV)

Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

Remember, God is the Author and Finisher of your faith. Be confident it is Him who worketh in you. Live in obedience, and don't be a procrastinator. Do what He has called you to do. Don't be timid or afraid Set no limits - For with God.....  ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!

God Bless and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel