God Saved My Life

God saved my life today.

I was driving home from church this morning around 12:30 pm on Inman Avenue in Edison/Colonia. Somewhere along the way, I was stuck behind a tractor-trailer. It was towering and I have never seen one before on this route.

This church service was very special to me. It was a "wake up" that God wants to bring me closer to Him. I was filled with the Holy Ghost leaving church today and was praying/praising in my car. If it were not for this, I may not have been so aware of the truck in front of me and its strangeness on the road.

I found myself thinking "This truck is going to take down a power line - or maybe hit a tree branch." Now, I know Inman Avenue is a busy road but it's also residential in several parts. I just don't know why a truck like this would be passing through on this road. Of course, several minutes after envisioning the truck hitting a power line, it actually happened.

Somewhere between Feather Bed Lane and Wood Avenue, the truck ripped off a power line stretching across the street. The line snaked in mid-air above my vehicle as I slammed on my breaks. Thankfully, the line did not land on my car bur rather two feet in front of my vehicle. Though it was not sparking, I did not want to risk driving over it so I gathered my composure and went around it carefully. The fact that the line may have been live still and could have landed on my car was disconcerning to say the least. However, what isn't disconcerning is that the first thought after that went through my head was, "THANK GOD."

Maybe it wasn't a live line at that point when it was ripped off the pole by the truck (which, by the way, kept moving forward until out of sight) but any type of situation like that is worthy of praise and thanksgiving to the LORD.

I love God and I am so happy that He has shown me such abundance of joy, prosperity, and love in my life since I have taken Jesus into my heart as Lord and Savior. And I am so thankful for the protection that He has given me from events such as this. Whether or not it would've hurt me, I am thankful knowing God was there with me.

Whether or not you believe God saved my life today, it is still a fact that God saved our lives many years ago on the cross. And this can never be forgotten or taken away from. Jesus Christ paid the ultimate sacrifice by shedding His blood for us (untainted blood, God's blood) so that we may be shown grace and favor by the Father. This event has reminded me that God saves lives daily and even if we don't see it or recognize it as something as chaotic as a downed power line, His saving power extends to something just as simple as turning a broken heart into a joyful heart. His saving power can be found in what He did years ago by taking the worst beating known to man so that we do not have to dwell in the flesh (sinful nature) but rather receive the Holy Ghost and lift our spirits up to God. This may have been years ago, but His mercy and love endures forever, keeping Jesus our eternal savior.

What a better time of year to recognize and remember His Majesty than His very own birthday. God bless and have a Merry Christmas!!!

Lukewarm

I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

-The Revelation 3:15-16

After watching a testimony by "Two and Half Men" star Angus Jones, I suddenly became aware of something VERY important that God had been trying to make known unto me.

You can't be 75%. You can't be 85%. You can't even be 99%. You are either FOR or AGAINST God. You are either a friend of this world, or a friend of God. This scripture uses temperature to describe the different levels of commitment to the Lord. There is of course, being cold, which is no faith. Then there is being hot, which refers to full and complete commitment. Finally, this mysterious "lukewarm" is mentioned.

So what does it mean to be "lukewarm" and spued out?

To me, being lukewarm is a lack of commitment to the Lord and a lack of faith in certain areas. It means you may call yourself a Christian but may only commit yourself to partial righteousness. Let's face it, we are all sinners. Our flesh is a layer of sin that we have to deal with daily. So if we miss a day here or there and find ourselves lethargic in our relationship with God, it brings down our temperature. We are no longer hot, we are lukewarm. And again, let's face it, restaurants don't serve lukewarm soup...they serve it HOT! Therefore, you won't find yourself in God's company...rather you will be spued out!

However, there is always good news with the Lord and that is of course His Son, Jesus Christ. We are told to repent and ask forgiveness and that God will freely grant us salvation from our sin because of Jesus. Think of Jesus as a mediator bewteen two parties (in this case it is mankind and God).

If you are on the witness stand for Christ 100% of your day, you are HOT and He will testify on your behalf before the Lord on the Day of Judgment. I don't know about you, but I want Jesus on that witness stand for me! So, I'm making it my goal to constantly remain an advocate for God in this life.

Today, my challenge to you is to think about your life and think about where you stand: are you cold? lukewarm? or hot? Nobody's perfect and keep it mind God knows that! That's why he only told us to be HOT and not BOILING. Haaa! Well, maybe we should try to be boiling but either way, challenge yourself today to stay righteous. Bless with your mouth at all times and do not curse! Let God lead you in the right direction and do not turn around, else you become lukewarm.

Move forward. Those are good keywords. Do not look back. It might've been a broken road you were on when finding the Lord but it does not mean you need to travel down that path again. God will always show you a better way!

Praise the Lord! Be blessed in Jesus' name!

The Importance of Ministry

As a Christian, it is our belief that Jesus Christ died for our salvation and ascended into Heaven, only to return again someday to reign. This is such a magnificent thing for all of creation but only beneficial to those that bring Jesus into their life.

So, let's say that you're saved. You've repented of your sins and asked God to make you a new creature through Christ. Okay, great! But your work is not done. All Christians are called to minister and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Webster's 1828 dictionary defines ministry as:

n. [L. ministerium.] The office, duties or functions of a subordinate agent of any kind.

1. Agency; service; aid; interposition; instrumentality.

2. Ecclesiastical function; agency or service of a minister of the gospel or clergyman in the modern church, or of priests, apostles and evangelists in the ancient. Acts 1. Rom.12. 2 Tim.4. Num.4.

So essentially, a ministry is an agency that is meant to aid or provide assistance to others, in the service of someone higher. In the service of our Lord Jesus Christ, the world has seen priests, evangelical preachers, and other types of ministers travel the world, setting up foundations in a multitude of countries. This Christian Ministry is a calling that is different for each person. One person may be called to be a musician and create songs/albums for God. Others are called to preach in a church or on the streets. Some, like me, feel that their call to ministry is through writing.

But why is it so important that we, as Christians, let others know about the Gospel of Christ and the salvation that is ready for them to receive.

Looking at some scripture should help...

This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead. So when they had dined, Jesus saith unto Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

-St. John 21:14-16

Jesus went on to ask Simon Peter three more times to profess his love, and then he said to him, "Feed my sheep." What does this mean? It means, take care of those that Jesus loves, including those that sin against Him. It is a calling to carry on with the work Jesus had set out to do: save mankind. If it were not for these first few disciples listening to the Jesus, the Ministry of Christ would not have been born and it would not have reached us 2,000 years later.

God wants us to care for each other and save one another. He doesn't want us to be selfish, judgmental, and fearful of non-believers. As I heard on a Christian program yesterday, Jesus didn't come to make us safe from darkness...He came to make us dangerous to it. He wants us to be able to step right up and proclaim God's Word and speak against the evil.

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

-James 4:7

As co-heirs in Christ to the promise of eternal life, a Christian should be able to speak the Word of God and defeat anything that comes against them.

No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.

-Isaiah 54:17

This verse tells us that by serving God, we are protected against anything that is set out to harm us, as long as we hold onto and believe in His Word. I don't know about you, but that sounds pretty awesome to me! Therefore, we are reminded to serve God and serving God is done by listening to the request of Jesus Christ. We must set out on our own individual journeys to let others know what God has done for them, what Christ's blood offers them: salvation a.k.a. eternal life in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Going back to the Book of James...

Brethren if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.

-James 5:19-20

It is a great thing as James writes, to convert a sinner from a life of tribulation and misery to a life filled with the Holy Ghost. It is not just an optional part of being a Christian, it is something amazing that God wants you to do! He wants us to hide a multitude of sins, or in other terms, allow someone that chance to let Jesus free them of their sin.

Furthermore, the Book of Luke, Chapter 15, tells the story of the prodigal son, who had left home and spent his inheritance on vain, lustful things, only to return home poor. However, his choice to return home was met well with his father welcoming him home with open arms and rejoicing for his son (had been lost) was now found. What a beautiful ending to a story that could've turned out so tragic.

That being said, if you have that lost sense of feeling, you always have a choice to return home. The Lord loves all of His creation. He will rejoice even if one person is returned home.

It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

-St. Luke 15:32

How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

-St. Matthew 18:12-14

Therefore, their is great importance in becoming a part of the Christian Ministry in some way. This does not mean you have to give your life to the church and set up rules and boundaries for yourself (much like some denomations make their clergymen do).

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times soem shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

-1 Timothy 4:1-3

As these verses state, it is okay to marry and be a part of the faith. It is also shown here that it is okay to eat all types of meat and food whenever one pleases as long as you give God praise and thanksgiving for it. Thus, reverting back to the importance of ministering the Gospel, it essential to become involved in some way. There is a great reward and protection for those that serve the Lord. However, we must all be careful not to show judgment against others, lest we be judged ourselves.

And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?

-St. Matthew 7:4

In other words, don't be so quick to notice others faults, if you are guilty yourself of other faults. It is better to not judge, but pray and hope that those you preach to and those you minister to will hear the Word of God and believe it and receive it. It is better to pray to the Lord for others' salvation than to call other people on their sins, one by one. However, it is even greater to show kindness, mercy, and love to others as Christ would want us to. He wants us to feed his sheep, his lambs. That is what true ministry is about: showing compassion for people so that they may know about the goodness of God. It all winds down to love in the end. Show love and you will reach the hearts of many and convert those that have gone astray.

Praise the LORD!

God bless and have a wonderful day!

***All red-lettered print above are the actual Words of Jesus, our Lord***
***All scripture taken from the Authorized 1611 King James Version of the Bible***

Reflecting on the 11th Anniversary of 9/11

Took a ride up to the YMCA/Woodbridge Community Center after work tonight to see if I could see the tribute in lights. Let me say this...I've never seen the city so bright and magnificent from such a distance in my life. The Freedom Tower (1 WTC) was a beautiful red/white/blue and the also newly built 4 WTC was glowing a sparkling white that could light up the whole sky. Not to mention, the other infamous landmarks such as the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and the Bayonne Bridge were radiating through the crisp, clear sky as well.

To say the least, it was a beautiful sight to see and a wonderful chance to reflect on the tragedy that occurred 11 years ago.

I was a 7th grader sitting in Ms. Israel's English class when we received word over the p.a. system that planes had struck the Twin Towers. As a young kid, I wasn't sure what to think and I'm not too sure I fully grasped the magnitude of what had happened. I was experiencing tons of emotions from fear to grief to pure shock. It was scary but there was so much commotion and kids being picked up from classes by their parents that I felt lost in it all.

I'm proud to be an American and I thank God for blessing my family, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances with a wonderful nation that gives us the chance to express ourselves freely. In my opinion, allowing me to worship Jesus Christ freely and write blogs like this without fear of persecution by the government is what has sanctified this country above the rest. It is what has made America the greatest nation on the planet.

And tonight, I was reminded how amazing and wonderful this country can truly be. Through rough times and hardship and tragedy, America will find a way to give people hope. Yes, there is always a bone to pick somewhere but when I take a step back and look at the big picture of what the United States is, I can't help but say this country is blessed by God.

"The rights of man come not from the generosity of the state but from the hand of God."
-John F. Kennedy

Normally, I would take from scripture for this blog but I want to show that this country is blessed with all its riches and power because God has given it to us by our faith in Him. Think about what this country was founded upon...Christianity. That can be argued as some might say "religious freedom" was the basis for this nation but when you look at the Constitution and the way this nation was arranged, one can't help but directly relate it to Biblical values.

Going back to 9/11 now, I must say that tonight after spending about 10 minutes admiring the skyline from the highest point in my town, I am more happy to be an American and a man of God. I felt the Lord's presence tonight and it moved me to pray and consider the lives of those lost that day. It also brought me to an interesting place: Forgiveness

Though it may be the hardest thing to do, forgiving one another is what following Jesus Christ is all about. Jesus is love. Love is being able to forgive. Jesus Christ forgave us all for our sins. He died for our sins. He yelled out, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do," (Luke 23:24) while they were crucifying him. Therefore, to follow Christ and follow in His love, we must forgive. Now, does this mean we must forgive the people that terrorized our nation 11 years ago to this date? Well, I'm not going to answer that. I feel that this question is better left unanswered and something that must be revealed by God in time, individually.

Closing Thoughts

Finally, I'd just like to remember those that paid the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11. There are so many people that are still and always will be affected by this day whether it is families, friendships, communities, workplaces, among so many others. It's difficult having to cope with loss and I've had to do it recently with the loss of my beloved pet, Cubby, who I considered to a best friend. But what I've been reminded from the day I accepted Jesus into my life, is that death is not the end. There is good news and that is Christ has given us a chance to receive God's grace and mercy. We need the Lord's mercy to find our way into Heaven one day and the only way to receive that mercy is through Christ. I believe that God's mercy reigned down upon this nation after 9/11. God is always there, through good times, and through tragedy. God will never leave our side.

Don't Just Know About God, Live It

As a born-again Christian, I believe I have been saved and that eternal life and many great things await myself and all others that repent and receive Jesus as their Lord. But as a "religious" adolescent, I did not feel the same way. I felt separated from God by the priest. I felt like the only way to reach God in this life was to be ordained a saint. I really didn't know God, just what they taught me.

But even as a devout Christian today, sometimes it can be difficult to forget that we are walking on the same earth that Jesus Christ once did. This very earth, full of cars, skyscrapers, technology, governments, and spectacular entertainment was once inhabited by our Lord. He did this and died for us out of the greatest love. And we should be looking to walk this earth the very same way. Being a follower of Christ entails more than just following the rush of cars into the parking lot every Sunday morning. It entails actually living the way he did. Let's face it, that's hard to do. It's hard enough to feed a family of six these days but Jesus fed thousands with a little bit of fish and bread. 

So what are we supposed to do then? Quit our jobs and leave town for a nice 40 day desert vacation? Hey, if that's what the Lord wants, then go for it. Otherwise, wake up each and every morning, give thanks to the Lord and praise Him! Thank God for every good thing in your life! Ask God each day for something new and then believe you have received it!

Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. 

-St. Mark 11:24

Jesus told us to do this. So, um, what are you waiting for?

Don't hold anything back either, ask God for everything. Ask Him to pay off your mortgage. Ask Him to heal any disease. Ask Him for that new car that you need. Ask Him for peace in your life. Ask Him to remove the fear and shyness that prevents you from expressing your love to Him. Ask Him to show you how to pray. And then God will show you what to do. You need to believe it and then you can receive it.

Don't limit yourself to Sundays either! Sundays are a day of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord and attending church is vital. But the other six days of the week are perfect for putting his Word into practice. Be kind and generous to people you normally wouldn't associate yourself with. Be a lender, not a borrower. When someone brings up the Lord, talk to that person about God and how Jesus has made your life complete. I know Jesus has made me feel whole. I want nothing, for God has provided me all that I need.

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

-Psalm 23:1

Furthermore, show true love and compassion for people. No matter who they are, God created them and loves them just as much as He loves you. I remember one day realizing this and when I did, it changed my entire perspective on life. I had a revelation that God wants us to pray for each other because He loves EVERYONE. Yes, that includes murderers, rapists, thieves, and other criminals. God weeps for them because we were all born to be followers of Christ. He weeps for victims too. He loves EVERYONE. So pray for everyone and love everyone. Don't hate a single human being for what they have done. Hate what sin has caused them to do. Turn away from the desires of the flesh and look to the awesome power of the Holy Ghost.

It is through the Holy Ghost where one can truly achieve a Christ-like life. Since receiving the Holy Ghost, I look at each person a little more carefully now. This means when I am paying attention to the leadership of the Holy Ghost, I treat everyone with love. In my recent blog entitled "Love Thy Neighbor," I explained how I try not to exclude any person from receiving the same treatment I give close friends and family. It's hard to explain how I feel but just imagine having a deeper understanding or compassion for each person and who they are. The only way to truly know what it's like is to live it.

I urge everyone to seek more than just knowing about God. I urge everyone to read their Bibles and treat what you read as a training manual for how you should act. Live like Jesus did. Don't be greedy, don't be jealous, don't be apathetic, and treat each day like a great opportunity. A great opportunity for what? To put a smile on another person's face; to give someone else something they could use that day whether it's a friend to lean on or a friend to laugh with. Don't exclude people because they "don't fit in." Instead, find out why you "don't fit in" with them! Let your heart do the talking rather than your mind. They always say, "think before you speak." Well, I am here to tell you to, "pray before you think and then you may speak."

Believe in and walk with Christ and God's amazing love will be manifested in your life.

For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God.

-St. John 16:27

But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof.

-Romans 13:14

God Changed Me

That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

-St. John 3:6-7

I am born again. God revealed himself to me and opened my heart to understanding Him and how to become saved. And in becoming born again, I am a complete new creature in Christ. All that I was has passed away and all that God wants me to be is being loosed.

Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

-Matthew 18:18

What does this mean? It means that we must use the Word of God in our lives to help us bind the things we don't want in our lives such as disease, lack, famine, poverty, and anything else negative. It means we must use the Word of God in our lives to help loose the things we need such as ears to heed to the voice of God, eyes to see His plan for us, and a loving nature for all mankind.

I am a changed man by God. People do not change people, only God does. But it doesn't happen overnight. This is something that takes time and though I may be born again now, I am still working at getting to where God wants me to stand firm.

Just several weeks ago, I officially decided to abstain from alcohol. My opinion of it had changed when I first  discovered God's calling but I never fully quit drinking. While I would not get drunk or drink hard liquor anymore, I didn't give up drinking one or two once every few weeks or for really special occasions. Well, I finally feel ready to shut the door on it once and for all. There are many reasons to stop drinking.

1. Alcohol has been the source of many lives lost, families broken, and marriages destroyed.

2. Alcohol is unhealthy for the body, plain and simple.

3. Alcohol allows your body to "let go" and lose control. Forgive me if I offend anyone, but I have no desire in "losing control" of myself.

Furthermore today, I have made a decision to embark on a journey that may seem even more bold. I do not wish to have anymore "fast foods" ever again. I have tried to abstain from it before only to end up desperate for a meal and craving Taco Bell. Well, I feel that I need to bind fast food and loose a healthy diet into my life. The body is the temple for the Holy Ghost and for that reason, we must take care of ourselves. Watching our diet is a great thing to do not just for yourself but for God.

While I am not completely ready to give up all types of fast foods, I have decided to give up McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Sonic, White Castle, Taco Bell, KFC, Burger Express, and any other miscellaneous burger-joint. The few restaurants I will allow are Subway, Chipotle, Chic-fil-A, pizza, chinese takeout, and various other sub/deli shops. Hopefully within time I will have the means necessary to provide myself with a strict diet that will be acceptable to God and to maintaining the greatest possible condition for my body.

When I look back at my life, I sometimes have a difficult time remembering why I did half the things I used to do. I sometimes have a hard time remembering who I was. I feel that this is because God changes people in a way that they truly do become "born again" into a new state of mind and body. This spiritual rebirth isn't just symbolic, it is real. God is really working when we release the Word of God into our lives, our situations, and anything we desire. God doesn't just work for me, He wants to and can work for everyone. No matter who you are and no matter what your situation (how small or big), Jesus Christ loves you and He wants you to live your life to the fullest potential.

They say that there is a broad path to destruction and a narrow path to salvation. This is the truth. Look at Cain and Abel in Genesis. Cain's worship to God was unacceptable but Abel's worship was looked at by God with favor. I tell you the truth, there are not too many options to choose from when being saved. It is pretty much the same for everyone. But as you may notice, there are more than enough options for not being saved. As Cain and Abel have taught us, there is a right way to worship and a wrong way.

And with a new covenant being made by the blood of Jesus Christ, there is only one path to salvation: Christ. Accept Christ as your God and you will become born again. Repent and seek the Lord diligently. Don't be afraid to take that great leap. Don't end up in that downward spiral. It's a broad path to destruction which means there are many ways to go but only one right way. And if you're not on the right path, it doesn't matter which of the other several paths you're on, it all leads to the same place: nowhere. Ask God to lead you today. Pray to Him and He will change your heart. He will increase your understanding. You will find a new smile. God is alive.

Be blessed!

Love Thy Neighbor

Since taking Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I have felt a complete 180 degree turn-around on how I view others. People don't change people, God changes people and that is exactly what he did to me. I was once a man like any other that didn't know how to "step in someone else's shoes." While I never held too many grudges or straight-out hated anyone, I never knew how to love either.


No matter who you are and no matter what you believe, if you are reading this, please know that I care about you. We are all of the same kin, created by God.


For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him.
-Colossians 1:16


And if God created us, why are we warring against each other? Why do nations rise up and strike other nations? Why don't people love thy neighbor?


The answer can be found through understanding of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our Savior came to save us from eternal damnation and also came to show us that love is happiness. Let's face it, who yearns to be unhappy? Nobody does. Everyone seeks one thing and that is happiness. But not everyone knows where to find it. Some people think they can disguise it with riches and a promiscuous sexual life. Well, I'm here to tell you that I have found happiness and it is based around love for one another.


It is difficult to not gossip about a fellow human being, especially when someone does wrong against you. But does that give you the right to act the same way back? Does that make you any better? We've all heard it before: "let's not stoop to their level." Well, that saying has a very Biblical meaning behind it. The next time someone does wrong against you, it is best not to speak ill of them, but rather to pray for them and leave it alone. Judgement is reserved for God.


The LORD therefore be judge, and judge between me and thee, and see, and plead my cause, and deliver me out of thine hand.
-1 Samuel 24:15


I have always noticed that I have several different groups of friends. I am never isolated to one particular click or best friend. While I may be closer to some and more distant from others at different times, the love I feel for each person remains. I find it difficult to completely shut out a person from my life. Since becoming saved, I have had an easier time showing a Christ-like unconditional love for others. This love is never met with an ultimatum or strings-attached clause, rather, it is made possible by Jesus Christ. With Christ, you will overlook no one and your heart will yearn to make others happy.


I have always been more of a giver than a receiver. I look forward to Christmas gift-giving rather than the gifts I receive. This doesn't mean unconditional love negates any type of receiving. The true gift of receiving is through God.


But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
-Philippians 4:19


God is a provider and not only will He provide the understanding and love required to keep His commandments (such as 'love thy neighbor'), He will provide anything that you ask of Him in Jesus' name. I have been through enough trials and tribulation to know that God is real and that investing time in prayer and studying of His Word will manifest into great things. You could spend your whole life doing great things without God but never fully experience what God has called you to do. And whatever God has called you to do, I can guarantee you, it is better than what you can do alone.


I may have been able to go my entire life being a great gift-giver, never asking for something in return but would I ever have been able to fully commit myself to a life of love? For years, I kept thinking, "I do so much for others but why does no one do anything for me?" Well, my friends, let me tell you this: giving is not about receiving. Showing love is not about receiving love. That is never what God had in mind. If He had that in mind when Christ first came, Jesus would have never said "Forgive them Father, they know not what they do."


Everything ties together, whether it's love, forgiveness, mercy, grace, patience, or any other Godly attribute. We can show love by forgiveness. We can show love by being merciful. We can show love by granting grace (rewarding someone when it is not deserved). And then to truly test ourselves, we show patience. By being patient, we wait for a change. As we do good deeds for others when they do none for us, we wait. And our hope is that one day the other person will feel the same way we do.


I once heard a story about a husband and wife. The wife was a believer but the husband was not. He cursed her day in and day out for her beliefs and eventually his resentment for her ended with him locking her out to sleep on the porch for an entire night. She did so, and in the morning, he let her back in the house and said sorry. She never complained, nor did she ever lose faith that he would eventually have God revealed to him.


Sounds like a fairy tale, eh? Well, we spend so much time watching them on TV and in the movies, that I hope we do those things because we want to believe they can happen. And I'm here to say that they can. The story of Jesus Christ is a fairy tale but one that was written by God as truth.


In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
-St. John 1:1


I love what God has done for me and what He has allowed me to see in others. He has enabled me to love with an open heart and always second guess myself when I don't speak kindly of others. If I find that I have, I immediately repent and ask the Lord for forgiveness. This has kept me from making enemies and experiencing a life of happiness that can only be found in Christ. Please, seek God. Please, love others. Whichever one comes first, I guarantee you the other will be soon to follow.


God bless and have a wonderful day.

Science Supports God

Evolution or God? Pick one. That has been the greatest debate in education over the past century and seemingly evolution has won. Charles Darwin's theories have made it into almost every scientific textbook found in public schools and his theories completely remove the existence of God as an all-powerful, intelligent creator. But don't let it confuse you because although Darwin's theories are scientifically-based, his ideas are not science itself.

Years ago, I was introduced to a book written by journalist Lee Strobel entitled, "Case for a Creator." He wrote the book after his agnosticism and apathy towards God was dismissed by startling scientific evidence that God was the greatest explanation for life as we know it. His journey and investigation, as highlighted throughout his book, opened his eyes to the idea of "intelligent design" and that life was too complex to be the result of random occurrence and/or accident. 

Of course, critics accused him of being bias in his arguments but I found after reading his book that most, if not, all of the arguments presented were great examples of God's mysterious power. For example, his investigation examined the Big Bang Theory and how this scientific theory of the Universe's creation is plausible. According to Strobel, the Kalam cosmological argument is the best supporter of why the Big Bang Theory could have been an occurrence created by God. The Kalam cosmological argument is an old medieval one but it makes perfect sense. The argument states that whatever begins to exist has a cause and that the universe came to exist. Therefore, the universe must have a cause. The best possible explanation would be God, an all-powerful, intelligent creator. Simply put, God was the cause of the Big Bang, or what sciences likes to say was a powerful eruption of energy and matter that created all things.

Think back to the Bible's explanation of how the universe was created. God spoke all things into existence and created them from nothing in the Book of Genesis. All life and all things that we perceive as reality are so complex and intertwined that the sheer idea that it was just "random" and "meaningless" is pure ludicrous. Science's purpose is to make sense of things and the best sense it has made is that God exists. Unfortunately, what people will find in textbooks and in most education systems is that science has disproved the existence of God. However, to say that would mean that science has made the best sense of everything and it clearly has not. Scientists are still searching for things and trying to find the meaning to life and each time they find that it points closer to God, they find that the idea must be wrong and they must keep searching. No matter where they look, they will find that the evidence will continue to point to God.

I'm not a scientist and it would be difficult for me to go into detail about this but I want to encourage everyone to look at three things: Lee Strobel's book, quantum physics, and the Bible itself. If you find it difficult to believe what the Bible says, then look at Strobel's book first. It will enlighten you to truths and false truths you never knew about such as the incomplete fossil record which is a disruption to Darwin's theory of evolution. Furthermore, you will find when looking at quantum physics that everything is made of the same energy. Just recently, I have been introduced to the idea that all things are a type of sound energy. While I have yet to do a great deal of research on this matter, I want to say that I did come across several teachings online that support the idea that all energy is a form of vibrating energy which can be compared to sound. 

Now think back to what God said in the beginning. God spoke all things into existence. If this is true, which it must be because it is recorded in the Bible, then we have found the scientific proof that we are a product of God's creation. Furthermore, look to St. John 1:1...

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

What does that mean? It means that the spoken Word of God was the beginning of all things. It means that whenever the Bible refers to the Word being made flesh that Jesus Christ is truly the savior of all of mankind. There is a deep connection between Jesus Christ and the creation of the universe. They are both one. All things were created by God by His Word and His Word became Jesus Christ. It may seem difficult to understand now but do your homework and pray and soon, over time, things will be revealed to you that will increase your understanding and knowledge of the Lord. 

God is supported by science and you will find that many scientists do believe in God. The only thing left to do is to convince skeptical scientists that they have actually found evidence of God and that the complexity of life is a result of God's knowledge and power.

***Disclaimer*** God is real :)

10 Things You Can Do To Make God Happy

People enjoy reading lists. They can fun, entertaining, and everyone always looks forward to reading number one on the list or to see if something made it or didn't.

Well, today I'm going to try giving it a shot...but with a Christian twist.

God created mankind with one thing in mind: Love. The Lord wanted to love his children and to be happy with His creation. We aren't just a product of this earth, rather we are the product of an all-powerful and living God! That is who we are and we must not forget our purpose in life: to love God with all our heart and the rest of His creation just as much.

Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

-Revelation 4:11

So, as God's creation, it is our job and our life's intention to do everything we do for our Lord through Jesus Christ. Though mankind has sinned, our redemption is made through Jesus' death on the cross and resurrection. That is why all things we do for God must be done through Christ.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

-Philippians 4:13

The following things are just a number of possibilities in making God smile.

1. Say "I Love You"

Love is something we are all programmed to do. We are programmed to respond positively to love and negatively when without it. It is also a word that we take for granted. It's very easy to use "I love you" in a joking manner when describing a bucket of chicken wings that hits the spot or messing around with your friend at work. But do we say it enough at home? Do we let our true loved ones know that we love them? I mean, yeah, sure, they should know by now. But there is definitely room for more love in this world. Let us not be afraid to show compassion and sincerity for a change. After all, this is what God wants for He loves us all.

Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

-1 Corinthians 13:8

(note: in the King James 1611 version of the Bible, charity = love)

2. Pray to God

There are many different things you can pray for but only one way to pray and that is by addressing the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Be aware of vain repetitions that the Bible warns against. I do not say "Hail Mary" prayers because it will do no good in the sight of God. Yes, it may seem like an innocent  prayer that addresses Mary, mother of Jesus but be watchful that it does not undermine God. Remember the story of Cain and Abel how both believed on God and offered up sacrifices and works unto Him but only one was acceptable. There is a right and a wrong way to do everything and there is only one narrow path to pleasing God. Pray to God and abandon all man-made creations.

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.

-1 Timothy 2:5

3. Give to the Poor

There's a woman on the side of the street in New York City begging for pennies. She is dirty and looks like she may be a resident of Penn Station terminal. I am in a rush to catch my train and I'm trying to fight my way through the mob traffic along 8th Avenue. She smiles at me and says, "A penny?" I chicken out and walk right by her. But right as I reach Madison Square Garden, I hear a voice in my head just wanting to scream out, "What are you doing!?" So I turn around and walk a harmless 2 blocks against the crowd and as she isn't looking I put a Lincoln in her cup. It's only $5 and I wish I had more to spare. Her reaction when she noticed was of exceeding joy and thankfulness. I wish I had an hour or two to spare to take her to a diner and grab her some food or maybe buy her a new pair of clothes. But I don't, not yet. And yet there are so many people out there that have that time. I felt better about giving that woman $5 than I did collecting $500 for a Relay for Life walk two years prior. Why? I think it has something to do with the personal satisfaction of knowing you are actually making a direct impact on someone else. While raising $500 one year is a great achievement, I don't feel a return from it like that.

Make it personal and give whatever you can but help someone today. The next chance you get, put your money in another man, woman, or child's hands and say, "God bless you." You could be that difference. Believe it.

And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.

-St. Luke 21:1-4

4. Preach the Gospel

All Christians at some time in their lives will be required to preach and profess their faith to others. We see people all the time on the streets passing out fliers and soliciting donations for churches or other religious groups. Well, there are other ways to preach the Gospel. One way is to find a person that truly could use Jesus Christ in their life and sit down and befriend them. Love them like Christ loved us. Love them like they need to be loved. Love is unconditional and goes hand-in-hand with preaching. We shouldn't have to preach, rather, we should want to preach. I look around me and I see others that could benefit from knowing Christ and knowing the things that have been revealed to me over time. Well my friends, that is why I am here writing this blog. I want to spread the Word of God and show others that it is good. It is not a history book, rather, it is a living truth. It is the good news that needs to be spread.

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

-St. Mark 16:15

For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. For the preaching of the cross is unto them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

-1 Corinthians 1:17-18

5. Read Your Bible

For years I have made an effort to read one chapter of my Bible every night. Well, let's be honest, that didn't always happen. Some nights I didn't read at all. However, there were nights I read several chapters. I love to say that the Bible is not a history book and I shouldn't. I am part-right and part-wrong. It is a history of the living God, Jesus Christ, the manifestation of the Holy Ghost, and all His witnesses. But it is also a powerful tool that can be used for protection, prosperity, and wisdom. I wrote a blog a while back about using God and the Bible as your weapon against evil. Well, it's true. There are plenty of verses that can be uttered and prayed over that will enable God to work for you. But opposite of defense, we have offense. Read your Bible also so that good things will come about. Pray for prosperity and wisdom and all other things you may be in need of today. Use your Bible to its fullest, whether it's one chapter a night or one book a day.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

-2 Timothy 3:16-17

6. Work Hard

Hard work and dedication to one's profession is pleasing in God's eyes. It's that simple. God wants us to enjoy our work, no matter if it's as simple as washing dishes to corporate paperwork. Jesus had a job as a carpenter like his adoptive father, Joseph. A good work ethic is important to God as it will produce a good harvest. The Bible does say that you will reap what you sow.

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

-Galatians 6:7

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.

-Colossians 3:23

7. Avoid Confrontation

Do not fight. Do not argue. Do not complain. Do not gripe. Do not murmur unto each other. Be nice to one another and turn the other cheek at confrontation. Fights will never solve anything and it seems like mankind is on pace for never learning that. As Christians, our job will sometimes require us to be the bigger person by admitting fault first. We may know that there was fault elsewhere but the best thing we can do in God's eyes is let him make the judgement. God has reserved that right for himself.

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

-Galatians 6:1

8. Repent

Well, you may ask why this isn't the first thing I wrote down? Repenting of one's sins is the gateway to Heaven. It is the start of a new relationship between yourself and God. Perhaps I should have put this as number one but then again, all these things are not meant to be ranked in order. God is forgiving and will accept your apology for your sins as long as you are truly sorry. When you feel like you have done something wrong, even if you have repented before, it is clearly still resting heavy on your heart. Repentance can do no ill unless it is in vain. Let the blood of Jesus Christ cleanse your soul and rebirth you as a new creature in Christ.

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.

-Acts 3:19

9. Seek God in a Multitude of Ways

My mother is a perfect example of seeking the Lord. She diligently prays, recites scripture, and tries to think of new ways to feel closer to God. Though a person may have found salvation in repentance of sins and accepting Christ into their lives, they can always plunge deeper. Even my uncle and Pastor Dave Kijula tells me how he is still learning. What can we do to seek God? We can pray. We can read our Bible. We can preach. We can interact with other Christians. As long as we do not stray away from the path we are on, we can find out that the path does not end. It continues on and on and on. Inevitably, the path of salvation does finally find its way into Heaven and into the loving arms of the Father. However, until then there is much to be learned on earth and in this natural life. Blessed is the man the seeks the Lord.

Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart.

-Psalm 119:2

10. Obey the Law

Though it may not be easy and though our sins are covered by the blood of Christ, recall what Jesus says each time He forgave a man, "Go and sin no more."

This includes, loving God, one's neighbor (or fellow human being), keeping the Sabbath day holy, honoring one's parents, turning away from murder, adultery, theft, lying, cheating, jealousy, greed, envy, and so on. The Ten Commandments were given to be followed although they were given to also show mankind that they could not be kept. Our bodies may be weak but through Christ and in the Spirit of God we can overcome the temptation to break these commandments. God's law is not to be looked at as a relic. We continue to view the Commandments in our country today as part of our modern day code of ethics. 

The Ten Commandments can be found in the Book of Exodus, Chapter 20, Verses 1-17.

Phew, that was a lot! But hey, if it makes God happy then it is well worth it! Praise the Lord and be blessed!

A Loving Parent

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Jesus Christ. 
-Galatians 3:26


If we are God's children, we have won the battle. If we are God's children, we are believers in Jesus Christ and we have found ourselves on a path of righteousness. To be a child of God doesn't take much more than confessing your belief in Jesus Christ and accepting Him as Lord and Savior of your life.


In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
-1 John 3:10


It's so simple to be saved. It should be easy to love one another. Sin has been defeated by Christ by way of the cross! But yet why is it so hard to NOT sin?


God gave us the Ten Commandments and his children break these commandments routinely. Love thy neighbor, honour thy mother and father, and all the "thou shalt not" commandments seem nearly impossible to NOT break. Well, there has to be a reason why. And there has to be a way of understanding it.


The best way I feel to take a look at why we sin and why God offered up His Son to die for those sins is to take a look at our own children. Now, I am not a parent, yet. I am only 23-years-old but I've had the responsibilities of a parent from time to time. While each child is different, it's apparent that each child must be treated with patience and kindness. This is simply because kids don't always listen to what their parents, elders, or caretakers have to say.


When I was young, I had my ways of disobedience. Yes, it is a sin. But it is also a direct reflection of how people act in the sight of God. When a man or woman sins on earth, God the Father in Heaven is met with the same disobedience that an unruly child brings their parent. It takes time but eventually through patience, kindness (or mercy), and sometimes reprimanding, a child will eventually obey.


The Bible does say that God will punish the wicked. God is a parent and just like human beings punish their children, God will judge each one of us. Now, I don't know about you but I want to be judged as righteous and as my uncle and Pastor David Kijula has said, "Receive me with a pat on the back and say 'Well done thy faithful servant.'" 


Let's recap.


1. God is a parent, we are His children.
2. Just like our own children, we disobey our parent (God)
3. A parent needs to show their child direction to correct their disobedience (patience, mercy)


But that's not all of course. As with anything of God, there is love. God is love, after all. He is a loving parent that sacrificed His Son for the forgiveness of sins. 


When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled, and said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see. Jesus wept. Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him!
-John 11:33-36


This verse is a direct implication of Jesus' love for us. As brothers and sisters of Christ, He weeps for us more than you know. God loves us more than we know. Just imagine a parent's love for their own child and magnify that by hundreds, if not, thousands of times. God is our Father in Heaven and His love endures forever. Therefore, God will always treat us the way we treat our own children.


In summation, God gave us children for a reason. He gave us the opportunity to see what it is like to love one's own creation and experience the joy of a guiding and leading a child. And just like a parent is hurt when their child disobeys, that is why God is so hurt when we go astray from His love and plan for us. Therefore, take some time to sit down and pray to God and talk to Him like a parent. God was the first parent and therefore understands everything we are going through when raising or taking care of children. After all, God did create all things. And if you let God into your life, you will not regret the decision as you will find yourself happier than you ever thought you could be. 


So it is what they say:  Parents know best. 


Be blessed and have a wonderful day!

God Will Find You

It's been a while since I posted a blog and it has me wondering, "Have I lost touch with God?"


Well, God forbid! I rebuke that and I will not let my writer's block stop me from blogging about the Almighty Father. God has given me all that I have and He continues to bless my family and I continually.


Since I made the choice to become "born again," I have found myself unable to ignore God's calling. I've denominated myself as a Christian my entire life but it wasn't until the Word of God was sown into my heart that I truly felt it.


Before becoming "born again" it was easier to say, "It's okay, I'm only doing it once." Furthermore, I was unwilling to speak up about my Christian beliefs. I didn't want to talk about it. It wasn't exactly socially acceptable. I may have claimed that I was open and willing to talk about it but in reality, I never brought it up nor did I truly heed to the "What Would Jesus Do?" saying. I didn't wear it as proud as I did my Yankees hat.


Okay, let's back up a second because I'm not a Yankees fan. That's actually just an expression I use to increase another person's understanding. Nothing against New York Yankees fans or any sports fan in particular (because I am one myself) but have you noticed that it's "okay" to talk about your love for the Yankees and wear their merchandise but when someone brings up Jesus Christ there are always several people that say, "That's inappropriate," or, "This isn't the place to talk about that."


Well, what I say to that is I am a fan, a believer in Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior and I will talk freely about His good works just like others talk freely about how many career hits Derek Jeter may have. And once again, do not mistake me for someone that dislikes sports. I love sports. It's not a bad thing to be a sports fan. But be careful how far you let yourself go with some things.


"And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit."
-Ephesians 5:18


This verse refers not just to alcohol consumption but to anything of the Earth. The "wine" in reference can be interpreted as the things of the Earth from food to drinks to lottery to sports to TV shows and even to my favorite hobby, fishing. Basically, do not make these things your idols, rather, let the Holy Ghost (Holy Spirit) be your desire.


It is a good thing to be seeking the Lord and desiring His warm, comforting presence in your life. And that warm, comforting feeling is the exact reason why I find it impossible to ignore His calling, His will. Whenever I am about to make a decision about something or do anything, God is there. He is leading me and telling me what to do. It's up to me whether or not I want to listen. Sometimes I find myself battling with a decision and that is when it's the most important to truly listen to God. You may see this "inner voice" as your conscience but when God finds His way into your heart, you will realize that this voice is the Holy Ghost.


"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?"
1 Corinthians 3:16


Men and women never truly have to "find" God. God is not lost as my uncle and Pastor Dave Kijula likes to preach. God is alive and He is constantly searching for ways into your life. He is constantly searching for ways to make the Spirit shine brightly through yourself. Those bad things that happen to you are not works for God, they are the works of the devil. But through those terrible things and those trials are the opportunities that you have to listen to God and let his light shine through. So please, wear a hat for Jesus Christ, not just the Yankees.


"I have therefore whereof I may glory through Christ Jesus in those things which pertain to God."
-Romans 15:17


God bless and have a wonderful day!

Understanding Suffering, Understanding Christianity

Suffering is a part of life. It is what the human race has been exposed to because of sin. To understand Christianity and to understand why Jesus Christ had to die on the cross for our sins we must look back to the very first book in the Bible.


And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
-Genesis 3:6


The first sin was Adam and Eve's disobedience of God, where they ate the fruit from the tree. They were deceived by the serpent (Satan). This is of course, one of the most popular Bible passages. But it is the problem. As with anything in life that needs a solution, there has to be a problem. At first, God gave his people the law. He gave the Ten Commandments to Moses. This was done to show that man cannot keep the law. It was given to show the people of God that sin was in the hearts of man and righteousness was a more than difficult task to achieve.


God then saw that man was ready to receive more than just the law. He saw that the first covenant was not good enough and that another one must be made. As the prophets of the Old Testament proclaimed, a savior was to come. And his name was and still is Jesus Christ. Through Jesus' suffering and death, our sins were purged, as long as we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior.


But skeptics may argue that if God really did love humanity, He would destroy all evil and bring good back into the world. In regards to this type of thought, we must understand that sin (a.k.a. evil) was put in the hearts of man from the very beginning and that to destroy all evil, would be to destroy humanity.


God Does Not Cause Evil


As you look around the world, you may see children suffering and innocent people dying while the gluttonous, unrighteous men and women continue to prosper. This is the result of evil being brought into this world. Evil does exist and God allows it because He loves us enough to not want to punish us for it. That is why sent His only Son to die for us.


But God commandeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
-Romans 5:8-9


This passage tells that God will destroy evil. The "wrath" spoken of is the time of judgment where God will wipe out humanity and the unrighteous. However, He is giving us the chance to repent and to make amends. He has given us a savior, Jesus Christ. That by his blood and sacrifice, if we accept him as the Son of God, we will be saved.


So, do not look back to the Old Testament and see the law given to Moses and the way to be saved. Look to what it means and what is has taught us about the history of God and man. Understand that God does not cause evil and will not allow it but before He destroys it, He is giving us a chance. I cannot stress enough how important it is to believe in Jesus Christ as the Savior of mankind. He is the one way ticket to Heaven.


Philosophy


I'm going to do something I rarely do and that is take a look at this now from a philosophic approach.


God is an eternal being. He is not affected by time and is all-powerful, incapable of causing evil. He has the power to destroy evil though.


So why would he not do it?


Because he does not want all of his creation to suffer for He loves us.


The Bible tells us that God has sent us a message that righteousness through God's law is difficult to achieve...but that He is also a forgiving God and is willing to purge us of all sin and evil if we believe on His Son as Lord and Savior.


Okay, that's a handful, but what about time? It's been 2,000 years since Christ died and the Bible tells that Jesus will return quickly. Good point...or wait, maybe not. Let's take a step back...God is eternal after all. Time does not affect God.


Perhaps there is a passage in the Bible about this?


But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
-2 Peter 3:8


IN FACT, there are two...


For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night.
-Psalm 90:4


Essentially, a day in the life of God is like 1,000 years to man. So folks, Jesus will indeed come quickly as he said.


Therefore, summing it all up: God is set to destroy humanity, all evil. That means all the evil that causes children to suffer and innocent people to die daily will be cast out and destroyed. But since we are all born into sin, it is man who will suffer this fate. That is, unless you take Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, the redeemer given to man by God. Jesus is the Son of God, sacrificed for all of humanity. Much like Abraham was ready to sacrifice his own son to God, Jesus was sent for us.


God bless and have a wonderful day.

Sharing a Message

Never saw this before in my life until today. It's a powerful message and very well written. I agree with everything this young man wrote and performed in his poem/rap. 


***Disclaimer*** I do not own this video or have any copyrights to it.

But By Him

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
-St. John 14:6


There is nothing in this life and no person that can truly make you feel whole and complete like Jesus Christ can. God certainly allows us to have things that make us happy and keep us joyful here on our Earth (our hobbies, entertainment, friends, family, spouse) but we must understand that we were made for a purpose: to be reunited with God one day. We were created to love him.


Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
-Revelation 4:11


Like the popular Carrie Underwood song, "Temporary Home," this world is truly our temporary residence. We are on a journey that will inevitably take us to either eternal life or the second death (Hell). My guess is that everyone would like to live forever. Well, folks, it's been given to us. It's not a matter of having to take an exam and pass it. It's not a matter of having to say 40 Hail Mary's so you're cleansed. 


NEWSFLASH: The Bible says clearly that the road to salvation begins with repentance (being sorry for your sins and asking forgiveness of the Father), taking Jesus as your Lord and Savior (for God sent Jesus to create a new covenant, in reference to the first one he gave Moses and his people), and remaining faithful until death. As a former member of the Roman Catholic church, I used to believe confession was the only way to ask forgiveness and be cleansed. NEWSFLASH: I learned that this is something we can do on our own, in a more meaningful, heartfelt way.


Jesus died for our sins. I find that too many people often look at Jesus as a symbol and not as much as a savior. He was indeed a SAVIOR. His death and his blood actually opened up the Gates of Heaven to all believers that have been baptized in Christ. Jesus was and still is the way, the truth, and the life. The Gospel is not a history lesson and it shouldn't be interpreted as something we look back on and say, "Oh, well things have changed." NEWSFLASH: Nothing has changed. God is still alive and forever will be and the blood covenant that Jesus created on the cross still applies. It is the only thing that applies. When we pass on from this life to the next, please, be sure that you have taken Jesus as your Lord and Savior. He is the Son of God and he died for this world so that we may have eternal life (ref. St. John 3:16).


I have witnessed supernatural things and seen miracles, both in my life and in others' lives. I have seen hearts broken, healed by God's love and God's love alone. I have seen sickness depart from the body through prayer and faith alone. I have seen my own life change and things around me "stand out" to me differently whether they are good or evil. I have been able to see evil more clearly and understand what things I should avoid. I have seen good make its way into my life day by day. I have felt my heart break in two and be lifted up just by faith.


I would not have been able to do or see any of these things but by Him, Jesus Christ. My life is the way I want it to be and I have no regrets. God has blessed me with many wonderful things over the past year and a half. And there have been many bumps and tests along the way but through each obstacle, I have put my trust in Jesus and seen something better come out of each one. It didn't take long for me. And it might take longer for you. It depends on where your heart is right now and where it should be. God will find you. People say, "I found God," and I just feel it's more appropriate to reverse that statement. God was never lost. He is and will forever be. And the only way to join Him is by Christ alone.


The following video is my own personal version of the sinner's prayer. It can be said in many ways but as long as you have faith, are sorry for your sins, ask forgiveness, and make Jesus your Lord and Savior, it is a prayer of salvation. Try it. You have nothing to lose if you do but everything to lose if you do not.


God bless and have a wonderful day!

Pray for Others

Last year, I woke up one morning and asked God to make me of use to someone. As a young Christian, still only just starting to chew on the "meat" of the Word, I realized I had not done enough to pray for others. I thought about what it meant to be a Christian and a follower of Christ and I realized I needed to show more charity or love.

And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

-1 Corinthians 13:13

So I asked God to make me of use. It was a quick prayer and a silent one but I meant it in my heart. I knew I needed to step up and make a difference somewhere, somehow. Well, that very morning at work I was interrupted at my desk by a passerby who was lost and needed directions. She did not speak good English but she was able to gather the courage and ask me for help at the desk.

The area she was looking for was out of sight to the average resident since her destination was located at an industrial park. However, being a delivery driver at my other job, I knew the exact building she was looking to find. I gave her directions and she kindly thanked me and left to use the rest room. Upon returning to the desk the woman kindly and timidly asked my name. I told her, "Shane," emphasizing the "ane" part to help her pronounce it.

She smiled and gently responded, "Shane. I will pray for you tonight."

It didn't hit me right away what had happened and I didn't have enough time or courage to respond in a similar manner but I smiled and watched her leave. God had answered me that same morning. He sent me that woman to my job because she needed help. Right there and then I was of use to someone. I made a difference. Though it was small, it was a difference, nonetheless.

God Will Give You Direction

Much like I gave the lost woman directions, God will give us directions when we are lost. He will put us in certain places that he sees necessary for our specific talents, attributes, and personalities. And I'm not just talking about putting me at a bowling alley because I'm an established bowler...I'm talking about sending us to places to spread the Word of God and let it be seen by others. The whole point to being a good Christian and a follower of Christ is to actually follow Christ.

What did Christ do? He prayed for others. He ministered unto the people, believers and non-believers. He even prayed for the people that cursed him and spat on him while he was up on the cross. Christ is Love. We must love like Christ.

Yesterday, I found another good example of love and God's direction. He led me to a woman that needed prayer. She came to me and asked my name. Then she told me her name and the names of her children. While I will disclose the nature of why these events occurred, I must say that it had a profound effect on me. She needed help and whether she knew it or not, she was asking me for it. God led me to her to pray for her. I cannot ignore God's Will. He has a plan for each of us and His plan is greater than anything we have prepared for ourselves.

Like the lost woman, she found direction and responded in prayer. And like my experience yesterday, I found direction and I know it is a calling to respond in prayer. You may ask, "How do I know that I'm supposed to pray for someone? What if they don't ask?"

Well, the best way to answer that question is to say, "If you need to ask, then pray." God has programmed us to be curious and to show love and compassion which is why it is so necessary that we recognize moments like these and respond in prayer.

Hypothetically speaking, maybe you don't know how to respond in prayer or know if you're prayer is the right one? Well, pray for that knowledge first. Just start off by praying for an answer and a more direction. And then have faith. God will always answer you. And remember, God only answers "yes" and "Amen." Everything else is not of God. It may take some time for those yes's and Amen's to lead to exactly where you're looking for but if you stay on the righteous path, you will find the way.

So, remember: Pray for others. Start off by praying for yourself. Repent. Then ask God to show you the next step, the next person to pray for. It's that simple. Just have faith.

God bless and have a wonderful day!