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