“Moreover, no one knows when their hour will come:” (Ecclesiastes 9:12)

My mama used to say don’t put off what you can do today until tomorrow because tomorrow is not promised. As a child I thought she was saying that because she wanted something done right then. I never gave a thought about the tomorrow not being promised part. Like most young people I had no thoughts or comprehension of death. The young believe they will live forever. Unfortunately, no matter the age, we sometimes act as if we have all the time in the world, which makes it easy to say maybe tomorrow.

“Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit,” yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say,If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” (James 4:13-15)

There is so much business in the world today so I understand the need to put off things or rearrange things just to try and get everything done. The problem is we often do the same thing when it comes to God and what He asks of us. But because tomorrow is not promised, this is living dangerously. Because tomorrow is not promised, we cannot afford to be disobedient! When we understand the concept that tomorrow is not promised, it encourages us to not only appreciate today, but to deepen our relationship with God and others. Because tomorrow is not promised and our eternal life is at stake, we should never put off or put God on hold. We should seek God first each day and allow Him to guide us toward our purpose here on earth. Tomorrow is not promised is not meant to bring fear, but a reminder to live with purpose, love, and faith, making each day count. When we focus on the present and live our life for God, we do not have to fear death because we will have eternal life.

 “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” (Proverbs 27:1)

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” (Colossians 3:23)

 “For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.” (John 6:40)

 “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10)

Our Father wants us to live this life and live it abundantly. He blesses us everyday when we wake up. If He breathes life into us and we wake up, it means He has a purpose for us. Seek His purpose, not the world. He will give us joy, peace, and strength to get through this journey we are on. But make no mistake it is a journey, it is temporary. Life’s journey is a passage from one place to another. Physical death marks the end of our earthly existence, it is a transitional phase leading to an eternal life with God or apart from Him. For Believers physical death is not the end but rather a transition to eternal life. Also the Bible speaks of people who are physically alive but spiritually dead, meaning they live in the flesh but are disconnected from God. The Good News of the Gospel is that through Jesus Christ, anyone can be brought from spiritual death to life. This is a choice each of us must make for ourselves however we have to make it during our earthly existence. We cannot afford to put this choice off because tomorrow is not promised!

 “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:2)

“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8)

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)

 “And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.” (Romans 13:11)

 “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)

 Life is a gift. Each day is a blessing that we should not take for granted. Because tomorrow is not promised it should not make us fear death but remind us of how precious time is. We must appreciate every moment, love others, spend time with our loved ones, andenjoy life and the things that bring us joy. However we must always seek God first and His Kingdom and rely on His guidance in all areas of our life. We should live fully today and trust Him for tomorrow. Because if we live for Him today, thanks to our Savior death has no sting! Love and Blessings…

 “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:55-57)

“Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.” (John 5:25)

We love our family in spite of our differences. We also love our family in Christ. And we most certainly love those who love on us. As the song said back in the day, “It’s so good loving somebody who loves you back.” According to the scriptures we are commanded to love each other and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Even if your neighbor is the most difficult person that you know. Although some people do, we should not pick and choose which scriptures to obey. Our neighbor according to the Bible is not just who lives next door to us but includes everyone. Regardless of skin color, physical features, cultural traditions, or different religious beliefs. We are commanded to love everyone!

“We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19)

^“And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39)

^“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” (1 John 4:11)

 ^“Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” (1 Peter 3:8)

Let’s go back to that difficult neighbor. The Bible does not say we must like them or the things they say or do. And we certainly shouldn’t allow them to steal our joy or our peace. However we must love them. Not fake it but truly love them. Which means we should not wish them any harm and we should pray for them as well as for ourselves. We pray for ourselves because it is not easy to love the unlovable. Lord knows we need the help of the Holy Spirit! Sometimes we may have to love them from a distance but sometimes God wants us to allow proximity so we can help them or He wants to help us by teaching us how to deal with sandpaper people as Joyce Myers calls them. Sandpaper people are rough, and if you allow them they will drain your light. We really need Jesus to deal with them and instead of them draining our light we can shine light into their darkness and just maybe smooth them out. Yes it’s darkness, hurt people hurt people! And the enemy will use their hurt to pour darkness into their being. We need discernment to identify that the struggle is spiritual, not physical. The Bible tells us we don’t fight against flesh and blood, but the powers of darkness. When we know who we are fighting then we will know how to fight! We fight with prayer, patience, compassion, forgiveness, grace, and most of all love. Light outshines darkness any day and love overpowers hate in every situation!

“Satan disguises himself as and angel of light highlighting the need for discernment.” (2 Corinthians 11:14)

^“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:43-48)

It’s easy to deal with people who think and feel as we do. If we say that we want to follow Jesus who loved everyone even those who lied on Him, talked about him, hated Him, and eventually hung Him on a cross, then we must love as He loves. The time is not coming, it is already here that love for each other will be the only thing that gets us through. As the difficult times of the last days approach, let us stay steadfast in devotion to God and His word. And His Word says love one another!

“If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.” (1 John 4;20-21)

Love and Blessings…

 “Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36)

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” (Matthew 24:36)

Sometimes we forget how powerful our words are. What comes out of our mouths can be a blessing or a curse. Not just to others but to ourselves as well. When God created the earth He did not say it is dark, I cannot see. He said let there be light. And there was light. Yeshua tells us that with faith as little as a mustard seed we can say to that mountain move and because of our faith we can expect it to move. Any circumstance or problem that we may face is our mountain. Speak to it!

“Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark!” (James 3:5)

“Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. (Mark 11:23)

“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12)

Whatever your mountain is your words have power over it. Just as we can speak how bad it is, we can also speak scripture such as Matthew 17:20 (“say to this mountain move”) and Philippians 4:13 (“I can do all things through Christ”). Speak to that situation or problem. I remember years ago when I was told by the doctors I might not be able to walk again. I heard what they said. I saw the medical reports. However I would say to them the devil is a liar and I will walk. Of course they thought I was in denial and a little crazy. We may look and feel foolish to others when we see and hear something but we speak the opposite. They may think we are crazy but it’s crazy until it’s not! Our words are powerful and they can affect the outcome. Sometimes the miracle is in our mouth! No matter how bad it looks, our words should speak the opposite! Scriptures emphasizes the power of words and faith, encouraging Believers to speak life and declare what God says about a situation rather than focusing on the negative.

“It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.” Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak,” (2 Corinthians 4:13)

“He replied, Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20)

We pray and pray about our trials and tribulations, which is a good thing. But we must level up and speak to our mountains. The same power that raised our Savior from death runs through our veins through Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit lives within us. Scripture tells us that we already have power over the enemy!

“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” (Luke 10:19)

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”  (Acts 1:8)

“These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.” (Titus 2:15)

When we are faced with a mountain-sized problem, we get scared and run to tell God all about it. This is good, no better one to run to. But the truth is, God already knows about our problems and He has already provided everything we need to overcome them. He has supplied everything we need by grace. Faith does not move God to do what He has already done; Jesus said speak to that mountain. Our words activate and manifest what already is. We can rebuke all things not of God. He gave us the authority and when we trust in God’s power and His promises, we can speak life and not death!

“God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” (2 Timonthy 1:7)

“Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite.” (Psalm 147:5)

“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (James 2:17)

“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” (John 14:12-14)

The enemy will use mountains to make us lose hope and to doubt ourselves. His hope is our faith will weaken and we will become too afraid to speak to the mountain. He will use mountains to block our vision and God’s purpose for our futures. He wants us to get upset with people and get upset with God. If he can do this, then he has won. He has kept us from experiencing all God has for us with a simple mountain. Yes, I said simple, it may look big or complicated to us, but to God it is simple. Look at those mountains through your spiritual eyes and not your natural vision. We can use the mountain to help us reach our destiny. God can cause that mountain to be a steppingstone! Whatever your mountain is; illness, depression, or financial, it does not matter. If it is outside what God has planned for you, command it to go in the name of Yeshua. There is power and authority in His name! And when you are in Him and He is in you, there is power in your words! Love and Blessings….

“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)

“Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy.” (Luke 10:19)

“For with God nothing shall be impossible.” (Luke 1:37)

I received a article from a fellow blogger and would like to share. It relates to mindfulness and how it can increase focus, performance, reduce stress, deepen self-insight, and help to develop compassion toward oneself and others. The Bible promotes a form of mindfulness focused on God, scripture, and the present moment, emphasizing stillness, prayer, and “setting minds on things above” (Colossians 3:2) It encourages renewing the mind (Romans 12:2), guarding the heart (Proverbs 4:23) and living in thankful, peaceful awareness rather than anxious distraction. The article displays ways to make mindfulness a part of our everyday life. I have attached her website below. Love and Blessings…

Making Mindfulness Part of Your Everyday Life

Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention—on purpose, in the present moment, without judgment—and this article is for people who want to be more mindful in everyday life, not just during quiet moments on a cushion. The challenge most people face isn’t understanding mindfulness; it’s remembering to practice it when life gets loud, rushed, or messy.

A quick grounding before we begin

Mindfulness doesn’t require a personality change, special clothes, or an empty calendar. It’s less about adding something new and more about noticing what’s already happening. When practiced regularly, it can help you feel calmer, more focused, and more connected to your own experiences—small and large alike.

Why mindfulness slips away so easily

Modern life rewards speed and multitasking. We eat while scrolling, listen while planning our reply, and rest while feeling guilty about it. Mindfulness often falls through the cracks because it seems optional or time-consuming.

The solution isn’t more discipline. It’s smarter placement.

How mindfulness actually fits into real life

Think of mindfulness as a series of small pauses rather than one long practice. It can show up while brushing your teeth, walking to your car, or waiting for coffee to brew. These moments already exist—you’re just learning to inhabit them more fully.

Everyday moments that invite awareness

● Noticing the temperature of the water while washing your hands

● Feeling your feet hit the ground as you walk

● Taking one slow breath before opening your email

● Listening fully to the first minute of a conversation

None of these require extra time. They require attention.

A simple how-to for building a daily mindfulness habit

Use this as a flexible checklist, not a rigid rulebook:

1. Anchor it to something you already do Pair mindfulness with habits like waking up, eating lunch, or going to bed.

2. Start tiny One conscious breath counts. Consistency matters more than duration.

3. Use your senses Ask yourself: What can I see, hear, feel, smell, or taste right now?

4. Drop the judgment If your mind wanders, notice it and gently return. That is the practice.

5. Repeat, imperfectly Some days will feel focused. Others won’t. Both are normal.

Gratitude as a doorway to mindfulness

One powerful way to stay present is through gratitude journaling. Writing down a few things you’re thankful for—especially small, ordinary moments—helps train your attention toward what’s already going well. Gratitude isn’t about ignoring difficulties; it’s about widening your perspective so positivity and possibility have room to exist alongside challenges. Over time, this practice can gently shift your mindset toward openness and presence.

What mindfulness can look like at different times of day

Time of day Mindful focus Simple practice

Morning Starting intentionally Take three slow breaths before checking your phone

Midday Resetting attention Eat one meal or snack without distractions

Afternoon Releasing tension Notice your shoulders and jaw; soften them

Evening Slowing down Reflect on one moment you noticed today

Night Letting go Scan your body before sleep, head to toe

This isn’t a schedule to follow perfectly—just a menu of options.

Frequently asked questions about mindfulness

Do I need to meditate to be mindful? No. Meditation helps, but mindfulness can happen during any activity.

How long before I notice benefits? Some people feel small shifts quickly; deeper changes often come with weeks of gentle consistency.

What if my mind won’t stop racing? That’s normal. Mindfulness isn’t about stopping thoughts—it’s about noticing them.

Can mindfulness help with stress? Yes. By noticing stress early, you often respond more calmly instead of reacting automatically.

A practical place to learn and practice If you’re looking for a calm, research-backed introduction to mindfulness, the UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC) offers free guided meditations, short courses, and simple explanations grounded in everyday life. Their resources are clear, welcoming, and especially useful if you prefer a gentle, non-intimidating approach to building a regular practice.

Bringing it all together

Mindfulness doesn’t demand a quieter life—it meets you inside the one you already have. By weaving small moments of attention into your day, you build awareness naturally and sustainably. Over time, those moments add up to greater calm, clarity, and presence. Start small, stay curious, and let mindfulness grow with you.

AUTHOR: Hazel Bridges

hazel@agingwellness.org

The story of my birth is that my mother nor the doctors knew that she was pregnant with twins the entire nine months. In the delivery room after my sister made her entrance, three minutes later I entered the world, surprising the doctor and sending my mother into shock. (literally). They didn’t know, but God knew. God knows us before we are formed in our mothers wound. It is important that we go into the New Year knowing who we are and Whose we are! God created us in His image. Each one of us were uniquely crafted to be who we are by our Creator. Each of us were wonderfully and fearfully made! Believing this, trusting this, and having faith in God’s love is an empowering truth!

“I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:5)

“So God created mankind in his own image,  in the image of God he created them;  male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27)

“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight, in love” (Ephesians 1:4)

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14)

It is easy to compare who we are with others in a world where we are defined by what we have or how we look. Today’s society determines who you are by the color of your skin or your status in life. This can lead to self-doubt, discouragement and insecurity. The truth is each of us were created intentionally, with love, and with a divine plan in mind. Each of us has a purpose, a calling that God has set before us to fulfill. This truth will set you free from the world’s prejudices and preconceptions! I share with you a poem written by my son entitled “I Am Who He Says I Am” I encourage you to meditate on it and walk into the New Year knowing who you are! Love and Blessings…

I AM WHO HE SAYS I AM

“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint–heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:16–17)

God whispers into my spirit “I am enough.”

Not by human strength, but by His sovereign touch.  

God declares; “I am free” to finally be.

The image He carved in the halls of eternity.

God affirms; “I am absolutely complete,” whole and entire.

Filled with Christ’s essence and holy fire.

God promises; “I am His” a permanent claim.

He will never forsake, nor forget my name.

God sings; “I am His child,” He comforts me sincerely.

His grace and mercy flows permanently.

God proclaims; “I am saved,” and sanctified bright,

Clothed in His glory, emerging as light.

God announces; “I am redeemed,” no longer a slave.

A masterpiece fashioned, a debt fully paid.

God equips; “I am a warrior,” with a conqueror’s soul.  

With strength as an inheritance to make me whole.

God marvels; “I am wonderfully made,” anointed with a higher name.

I can’t be defined by what the world may proclaim.

God chooses; “I am chosen” and not cast me away.

Selected with joy, welcomed into His family.

God assures; “I am unconditionally loved.”

The kind of redemptive love that can only come from above.

God frees: “I am forgiven,” not barely but abundantly.

Salvation through faith has made me inherently worthy.

God invites; “I am His friend,” not a servant kept at a distance.

A co-heir with Christ, with the Holy Spirit’s assistance.

God reveals; “I am known” every thought, every breath.  

Every hidden corner of your soul is felt.

I am who God says I am,

No less, no more, no counterfeit claim.  

Identity anchored, destiny framed.

Inspired by God, written by Clifton “Vizhun” Johnson

My mama used to say some people will hang with you as long as they can use you. And when there is no longer anything in it for them, they will drop you like a hot potato. This seems to be exactly what’s going on in today’s society. It is no longer just about networking or helping one another, it’s more about what you can do for me. If you pay close attention you really can’t tell the difference between humans and crabs in a barrel, each climbing to get to the top by any means necessary!

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.” (John 4:1)

As Believers we know that the Bible strongly opposes using people for selfish gain, instead it points out the importance of love, respect, and mutual service. Scripture tells us to serve one another without expecting nothing in return. I’m reminded of Judas who allowed himself to be used by those who cared nothing for him. They simply used him to get to Jesus. He turned on Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. (Matthew 26:14-16) Unfortunately in these times there are those who will turn on you for less. They will exploit and manipulate others for their own gain. It is one of the signs that we are living in the last days. We see people using their power, position, and selfishness to take advantage of others kindness, vulnerability, and innocence. 

“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5)

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)

If you are one of those people who believe it is ok to use people for your own gain, you should know that there are consequences for those actions. Also know that because of God’s grace it is never too late for us to rectify our behavior. In Luke 19:1-10 the Bible tells us about Zacchaeus who was a tax collector. He used his position to exploit others but after encountering Jesus, he not only repented, but he also made restoration!

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)

I cannot stress enough about spiritual discernment. If you are the user or the one being used, it is important that you realize who the real enemy is! The serpent didn’t come to Eve in the garden threatening to bite her if she didn’t eat the forbidden fruit. Instead, he came with deception presenting himself as being concerned for her welfare. Satan’s greatest weapon is deceit. The good news is that if we have a relationship with the Lord, our sincere faith will compel us to do the right thing and resist the devil! No one likes to be used. We should treat others as we want to be treated. 

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Ephesians 6:12)

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7)

“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.”

It is right to have a heart that wants to assist and serve others. This pleases Yahweh. However the Bible also teaches us that we must be wise and have discernment. In these dark times the enemy is using people to take advantage of others. It is important that we ask the Lord to show us what He wants us to do and not rely on our feelings. The Holy Spirit will give us the wisdom and discernment to recognize who is genuine. Praying for wisdom and discernment is crucial in these times! Love and Blessings…

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5)

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)

Believers recognize that our power lies in the authority given to us through Jesus Christ. This authority is not something we have earned but a gift that empowers us to conquer our fears and overcome adversaries. When we realize the significance of this authority over the enemy, we can approach life’s challenges with confidence and courage.

“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” (Luke 10:19)

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:10-12)

If we want to use our authority and see God’s power fully at work in our lives we should pray for a greater understanding of how the power of God works so that we can maximize and experience the fullness of God’s abundant life! If you put a new light bulb in a lamp but the lamp is not plugged into a socket it will not light up. It has to be connected to a source of power to work. We must stop depending on the resources that God blesses us with but solely depend on Him who is our Source. Only then can we begin to maximize and experience the fullness of God’s abundant life! This power is not something we fight to gain; it flows from within when the Holy Spirit dwells in us. 

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

We can plug into our  Source by studying the Word of God, praying, fasting, and worshiping. The truth is we can’t lose as long as we are walking with Jesus. Thanks to our God, we have the victory through Jesus Christ. When we walk with Jesus, His power lives within us. Scripture tells us that there is a name above all other names. That name is Jesus. He has the power! All we have to do is tap into it. When we stay plugged into the source we don’t have to wrestle for victory, because of Jesus we already have it. We do not have to strive to overcome, we can stand because Jesus already overcame! Let’s stop fighting for what has already been won and start tapping into our Source!  Love and Blessings…

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57)

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13)

In this season of my life in order for me to remember most things it helps when I write them down. However long before this season, I wrote things down. The experts say that this is good because when we write things down they become real, something we can see and therefore turn into reality. However, I used to do it because I planned everything and I thought it helped me to stay in control. I would always write out my plan and when my plan did not work out, I always had a plan B. Most of the time plan A or B did not  work. It took me some time to realize I’m only in control when I surrender control to God, and if my plans are not aligned with God’s plans for my life, it’s not going to work. God’s plan does not need a plan B! And when we follow His plan neither do we!

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” (Proverbs 19:21)

“The LORD of hosts has sworn: “As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have proposed, so shall it stand, “(Isaiah 14:24)

“Submit to God, and you will have peace; then things will go well for you. Listen to his instructions, and store them in your heart.” (Job 22:21-22)

There is nothing wrong with planning, but unless our plans align with God’s plan, it’s possible we will need a plan B and sometimes a plan C and D. In fact, unless we totally submit to God and His will for our life, we could go through the whole alphabet and still not get it right! Our human wisdom and abilities are limited, and we cannot always be in control of things. But if we know God, we know He is unlimited and is always in control. There was a time when giving total control of my life to anyone, even God was scary. I’m sure I’m not the only one who has or still feels this way. But I assure you that when we surrender fully to the will of God and allow Him to give us direction and guidance, there is no fear and we will not need a plan B!

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3)

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” (Psalm 32:8)

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

God’s plan for our lives are joy, peace, prosperity, hope, and a future with Him for eternity. Our plans are usually self-satisfying, temporary, and often separate us from God. We tend to get upset when things do not go as we planned. And even when we are following God’s plan, there will be some obstacles on our journey. We may find suffering, hurt, pain, and rejection. This is the enemy working to get us distracted. He wants us to give up because even he knows what God has for us is good. This is no time to get upset and start thinking of a plan B. This is the time for prayer, trust, and faith! God will guide us and bring us through. As a matter of fact, we will come out better and stronger if we endure. God’s plan for us is not only eternal, but full of hope even in the mist of life’s storms. God is always in control no matter what it looks like and He promised us that it will all work out for our good. God’s purpose will prevail, He doesn’t need a plan B!

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

“There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD.” (Proverbs 21:30)

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

If you are contemplating whether to go with your plan or God’s plan, I urge you to go with God’s plan, it is always much better than anything we can think or imagine! It is not about carrying out our will on earth but fulfilling God’s will for our life on earth. Love and Blessings…

“Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us,” (Ephesians 3:20)

I hear people say that they match the energy that is given to them. I confess that there was a time when I was one of those people. I no longer match energy anymore unless it is good positive energy. Why? Because matching some energy will have you mirroring demons. All energy is not good energy. If a person’s energy is negative and it’s coming from a dark place, we have a choice, we can match their energy and go to that dark place with them or we can choose to match the energy of Jesus who is the light of the world. When we follow Jesus we will not walk in darkness. 

“In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:4-5)

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

You may think you are only matching energy when you are really matching evil spirits. And these demonic spirits will pull you out of character if you are not careful. This is how the enemy deceives us. Scripture tells us that we do not battle against flesh but against the powers of darkness in this world and in the spirit realms. The enemy will use family, friends or anyone who allows him to use them to get us out of the character of Christ. 

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)

“Be sober and watch: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goes about seeking whom he may devour. Be sober and self-controlled. Be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)

Jesus walked this earth as a fleshly man so He wasn’t immune to the negative energy thrown His way. He lived in a chaotic, complex world just as we do. Jesus had emotions. He cried, loved, rejoiced, and on more than one occasion He felt anger. However, how Jesus chose to respond to His anger is the energy we should strive to match. He was slow to anger and had extraordinary patience. He took his time before taking action, and when He did, his approach was never malicious or unkind. His words were never cruel or hurtful. Even when He turned the tables of the thieving traders in a place of worship, it was not motivated by rage but by the energy and passion to right the wrongs He was seeing. (Matthew 21:12-13) Yes, Jesus got angry when others were treated unjustly, but he didn’t get angry on his own behalf. Even when he was mocked, insulted, and sentenced to death, he didn’t lash out. He forgave them. This is the type of energy we should strive to match! We must make sure that our energy aligns with God’s spirit and that we maintain pure energy.

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” (John 1:14)

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are.” (Hebrews 4:15)

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.” (Ephesians 4:31)

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9)

If a person’s energy is detrimental to our spiritual, physical, or mental being, of course we should remove ourselves or at least adjust our efforts. It doesn’t mean that they become our enemies and we can’t love and pray for them. Prayer changes things and God changes
people! Matching their darkness only takes us out of the light and into darkness. And there is always that possibility that if we choose to stay in the light, God will use us to pull them out. Remember light always overpowers darkness! Protect your peace, guard your spirit, and continue to let your light shine! Love and Blessings…

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” (Matthew 5:44)

“bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:28)