Tag Archives: Faith

Giving Glory to God (Russell Wilson)

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

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With all the issues and legal problems the NFL has experienced over the past year, one player has been a bright star, and his name is Russell Wilson.

Russell Wilson who’s a devout Christian since the age of 14 is very public about his faith, he has been brought to the spotlight by leading a Seattle franchise into the next dynasty. But with all his success he never forgets to give the “Glory to God”

This Sundays Playoff game against Green Bay was no exception, with Wilson throwing 3 interceptions in the first half and being down 16-0 at Halftime, Wilson lead the Seahawks to another miraculous comeback including Wilsons rushing touchdown and converted 2 pt conversion.

After the game Wilson was very emotional breaking down and Thanking God. A touching moment for fellow Christians to see

Russell Wilson breaks down in tears during interview after Seahawks win

(Jeremiah 29:11) “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.”

Wilson had become a household name after leading Seattle to there franchises first Super Bowl win and a crushing defeat over the highly favorite Peyton Manning led Denver Broncos.

The beginning of his NFL career wasn’t typical, before the draft Seattle went out and signed highly anticipated QB free agent Matt Flynn to a big contract. So when they drafted Wilson in the 3rd round they really had no expectations for him. Neither did the draft experts expect much from Wilson due to his size. But eventually by the end of the preseason Wilson won the starting job and has never looked back.

(Deuteronomy 31:6) “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

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Although Football in the grand scheme of life may not be relevant to everyone it is a sport that touches millions of peoples lives. What a great example the Russell Wilson displays Christ to the world. Thru his professionalism and relentless attitude I believe hes a great role model for our youth and for the NFL in general.

What about you? Are you a living example of Christ to your peers or family? As it says no matter what we do in life remember to Give the Glory to God in Jesus name Amen

By Our Fruits

Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Matthew 7:16

 

Many people claim to be a Christian but how do you know the false from the real followers? Check the fruit there bearing. What does that mean to check there fruit? Simple someone who is supposed to be following God should be living a Godly life. How is there family life? Blessed or a mess? How about there finances? You can tell a lot about a person buy there lifestyle, remember actions speak louder than words.

(Luke 6:43) “For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.”

 

What a true statement in this scripture, if you truly are a Christian then you won’t be living a life or corruption and chaos. Yes we are all sinners but we hold ourselves to a higher standard. As a Christian you do the right thing even when it’s hard. Christians who continually live in sin cannot truly be a Christian. You are either following Christ or not.

(Psalm 92:12) “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.”

 

Many fools believe the only way to flourish in this world is to follow the world, but God is our provider. However some peoples idea of flourishing may be different. If you only wish to obtain wealth and possessions then follow the world. But if you want to flourish with Peace and Life follow God.

Think about the Palm tree in this scripture, nobody how harsh or rough the storm is the Palm Tree will bend but never break.  Think about the roots of the tree also, the deeper our faith the deeper our roots will be.

(Matthew 7:19) “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”

 

Make no mistake we will be held accountable for our actions or fruit we bear. If we live a life of sin or bear bad fruit, we are then following the ways of Satan and not God. Sin does not come from God nor is it part of his plan. When we decide to bear bad fruit then you decided not to follow God.

Know Jesus Know Peace

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Romans 8:6

The greatest gifts you can be giving were delivered to you by Jesus Christ thru his sacrifice on the cross. Life and Peace what could be better than that? But what good is a life without peace? Without the love of Jesus in our hearts we would be without peace. Many people are alive but live in turmoil and conflict. They have no peace because they don’t know Jesus.

The carnally minded follow the world and not Jesus. They believe if they feed there greed and lust it will bring them happiness. But not only does it bring them despair and heartache it ultimately leads to their destruction.

(John 14:27) “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

Jesus confirms this in this scripture, basically he saying Follow Jesus not the World. The World is in great turmoil right now, why is that? Because everyone continues to follow their own lusts and desires and not the desires of God.  When we follow the world we fail,when we follow Jesus  you will have Peace and Life.

(Colossians 3:15) “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.”

Have Peace in your heart, how do you get his peace? There is only one way and that’s thru Jesus.  When you realize everything he gave and sacrificed for you. You are like a sheep out in the field ready to be devoured by the wolf, and he is the Good Shepherd that saved your life.  God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, doesn’t that bring you Peace?

(Psalms 34:14)” Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.”

Seek Peace means seek Jesus. He is the Prince of Peace. Depart from the corrupted ways of this world. When you learn to let go and let God take control you then feel his presence of Peace. When we try to control everything we become stressed out and lose our Peace. Learn to trust in God and be at Peace with him. In Jesus name Amen

God cares for you

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

 

When your feeling worried or stressed out do you hold it in or cast your care upon God? When we hold things in can often make your anxiety worse than when you release it. Not only is it important to let God know how your feeling but also others in your life such as your spouse, family, friends ,ect.

I found this out the other day, I was feeling upset over something and it was noticeably ruining my day. My wife noticed and asked me what was wrong, at first I just tried to blow it off but saying  I was fine but then a few minutes later I decided to tell her and I felt renewed. That problem that was weghing me down seemed to instantly disappear just by “casting my anxiety” to her

(Philippians 4:6) “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

 

God wants us to have this same relationship with him, tell him your fears and doubts. You might ask “How  do I do this?” Simply thru prayer. Praying is not about going thru the motions, it’s about having an intimate conversation with your Creator. Now you might say “Doesn’t God already know my problems?” and the answer is Yes but he still wants to hear your address them.

If you’re a parent think about your children, sometimes you know they did something wrong or upset over something but you still want them to confess or initiate the conversation of what they did or feeling. This is the same with God, he wants you to confess yourself to him. Like it says in the scriptures “You have not because you ask not” (James 4:3)

(Matthew 6:34) “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

 

When we look to far ahead in our life, in can be overwhelming. We need to learn to savor the moments we are in now and let God take care of the rest. When we keep focusing on tomorrow we never really enjoy today.  As it also says in Matthew 6 “ Can worry add one moment to your life? (Matthew 6:27)” Of course not worrying not only shortens our lives but makes it unenjoyable.

(Psalms 55:22) “Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”

 

When we cast our cares or anxiety to God he will sustain us. What does it mean to sustain us? Means he will give us peace and strength to endure the trouble we are facing. That’s why it’s important we cast or confess ourselves to God, because when we call upon him he listens.  Often you can tell how much faith somebody has by the amount of peace they have, especially during difficult times.

Remember next time your worried or stressed out, call out to God and cast all your anxiety to him. He will then sustain you and give you peace in the storm. In Jesus name Amen

Acknowledge Jesus

“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. Matthew 10:32
Are you a “Closet Christian” or a “Light of this world”? If you told your peers that you were a Christian would they have even known? It’s important that we share our faith with others, if you’re a Christian Jesus is living thru you. Share the good news of the Gospel, show love and kindness to others. Most importantly if you’re not willing to acknowledge Jesus why should he acknowledge you?
(Matthew 5:14)” “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
The love of Christ is contagious, when people see your inner strength and compassion they become drawn to you. This will also draw enemies also, you won’t be able to avoid this. Many people will mock and discriminate against you. But this is to be expected as Jesus told us this would happen.
(Matthew 10:22) “You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.”
The world hates Jesus because he has conquered the world thru the resurrection. Satan knows his time is limited and will try to tempt you thru the sins of this world. He will also try to blasphemy the name of Jesus, creating false religions and doctrine. But we know the truth and endure till the end because we know we have victory thru Jesus Christ.
(Mark 8:38) “”For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.”
Don’t be ashamed of being a Christian, the world will tell you it’s foolishness. But the cross is only foolishness to those who will perish (1 Corinthians 1:18) Where are your other Gods? There are dead in the grave, Jesus Christ is the true Messiah the only one who can save us from death.
(John 3:17)” For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”
We are saved through the blood of Jesus Christ, why wouldn’t you want that? Why wouldn’t you want eternal life with love and peace? Is the pleasures of sin worth your life? Give your life to Christ, follow him, and don’t be ashamed in Jesus name Amen

Made to Love

The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” Genesis 2:18

Some people try or believe they should be loners.  Wandering this world alone, picking up useless hobbies to fill their time. But as God said it’s not good for us to be alone. We were made to love and be loved.

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17

No matter who you are or how strong you are, we all need to be encouraged from time to time. Satan is constantly trying to bring us down, having a loved one to give you a word of encouragement or hug recharges your faith.

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:14

Jesus has called us the light of the world, how can we spread the light if were alone in the darkness? When we withhold our love and talents from others were doing a disservice to God.  You have been blessed with these attributes to share with others

Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him. Psalm 127:3

The greatest blessing from God is a family, don’t isolate yourself and miss out on a opportunity to receive Gods ultimate blessing. If you already have a family, make sure you appreciate and cherish that blessing and don’t take it for granted.

Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment. Proverbs 18:1

Loneliness many times can be a result of our own selfishness. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in ourselves and our life, we don’t acknowledge others. This is not only damaging to your personal life but unchristian. Jesus wants us to love and serve one another, when you make yourself the center of your own world.

There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. “For whom am I toiling,” he asked, “and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?” This too is meaningless– a miserable business! Ecclesiastes 4:8

We learn in the scripture Money can’t buy happiness nor fulfill your loneliness. Be careful how you devout your time, make time for others. Be grateful for your family and friends. If you are lonely, you need to start opening up to people. Show them your love and you will receive it back. God doesn’t want us to go thru life alone. I pray that everyone finds there soul mate sent from God and let’s there light shine for the world. In Jesus Name Amen

Where is your treasure?

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Matthew 6:21

Where is your treasure?  Is your treasure at work chasing money or at home with your family? Is your treasure in the world chasing your dreams or are you on your knees chasing Jesus?

What we make our priorities becomes our obsession. We need to be careful who or what we make our top priority because we often neglect the things that are really valuable.

Treasure– something that is very special, important, valuable

When you hear the word treasure, we often think of a case full of gold. But we need to realize what our true treasure is, the gifts that God blessed us with.

(Proverbs 31:10) “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.”

I am blessed with a wonderful wife and kids. That is where my treasure is. My family is more valuable to me than anything in the world. Because they are my treasure my heart belongs to them also. I will always put my wife and kids first, and everything else second.

(Proverbs 4:23) “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Everything you do flows from your heart. Therefor if the treasure in your heart is not pure, you will lead a corrupted life. That’s why it’s important to “Guard your heart”. It’s easy to get mislead by greed or lust. That’s why it’s important to “Treasure” the people and things in your life most, and this will keep your heart in the right direction.

(Matthew 5:8) “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.”

Jesus taught us the pure in heart will see God. If you heart is following worldly lusts you will not see God. Don’t let you heart be led astray by the world.  Let Jesus guide your heart, and you will not be misled.

(1 John 3:20) “For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.

Most importantly we need to remember we are nothing without Jesus Christ. Our hearts will continue to struggle and lead us astray, but through Jesus we are redeemed and he knows your heart. Continue to keep Jesus in your heart and your treasure be your gifts from God. Don’t be a fool to the world. In Jesus name Amen

Can’t Buy Faith

Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Acts 3:6

I love this story in the Bible, as it shows you Peter healed the man by their faith in Christ and not by money.  Isn’t this the approach and attitude our Christian Churches and Ministries should be using? You can’t go to a church service or watch a service on TV without being begged for money. What faith do these Christians really have?  Well they’ll bring up we must tithe. Let’s examine tithing from the Bible.

(Deuteronomy  14:22)” Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year”

There are a couple of Old Testament scriptures about tithing; here Moses gives the command to give 10% of all that you have to God. Problem is this is part of the Old Covenant. If you truly a Christian your part of the New Covenant. Let’s see what Jesus said about money.

(Matthew 19:21) “Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.””

When a man asked Jesus about following the commandments, Jesus told him to sell everything and give to the poor. How many Christian churches follow this practice? My point is Jesus never asked for or required money to spread his Gospel. If you have money and want to praise God help someone in need with it.

(Matthew 6:24) “”No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”

I know that it takes money to operate a church or ministry, but in the pursuit of fulfilling the budget needs I think a lot of Christians have lost their real purpose and reason for the Gospel. You don’t need an elaborate Church to worship God, Jesus would spread the Gospel anywhere and everywhere.  This is why I believe Jesus said to just give it all away. He knows once you make money a priority you cannot serve two masters.

(Matthew 7:15,16) “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not ant-Church or ministry. My point is don’t lose your focus on Jesus. Instead of putting financial burdens on your members, put your faith in God. He will make a way if you truly have faith in him. And beware there are a lot of false prophets and ministries out there that are will cash in on your faith and generosity.  As Jesus said you will know the false prophets by the fruit there producing. Are they leading people to Christ or leading money to their bank accounts?

I pray for all the churches and ministry’s that they remember the real reason they started was to bring people to Jesus Christ. Please help us seek and see the truth in Jesus name Amen

Be strong in The Lord

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

 

Are you struggling today? Are you involved in a battle that you feel like your losing? Who do you call on for strength? Are trusting in God to be your refuge thru your times of trouble? With God you are not alone, if you stand with him he will stand with you. If God is for us, who can be against us?

(Psalms 136:1) “O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endurethfor ever”

 

King David understood this principle, when the world was against him and everyone was trying to kill him. He called unto God for his strength and he delivered him as always. For God promises his mercy endures forever. Call out to God today and he will not forsake you.

(Philippians 4:13) “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

 

This is probably one of the most popular scriptures in the New Testament, however when Paul wrote this he was chained in prison. He didn’t proclaim this while living in paradise, he proclaimed this during his time in prison. He called onto God to give him strength no matter what man was doing to him.

(Ephesians 6:10) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

 

Again Paul tells trust in God to get you thru your battle and lean on him for your strength. Do you have this faith today? Are you fighting your battles alone or do you have God on your side? If you trust in him, he will not forsake you.

(Jeremiah 17:14) “Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.”

 

Are you praising God in the storm or cursing him? So this is the true reveal or you faith. Anyone can be faithful during good times, but what about the hard times? This is what reveals who you really are. Thru you faith you will dig deep roots and endure any storm. Be strong in the Lord. In Jesus name Amen

Power of the Cross

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. I Corinthians 1:18

The cross originally designed by the Romans to be a torture device was transformed into the symbol of hope, love, and most importantly victory over death

As it says in the scripture above anyone who doesn’t understand the “Power of the Cross” is not only a fool but will perish. As Jesus said (John 14:6) “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Jesus is the only way to heaven and that way was paved by his sacrifice on the cross. Many false religions will try to downplay the crucifixion, but that’s because they know the importance of this event. The war was won on this day. As Jesus said “It is Finished! (John 19:30)

This also provided an example of how we should live our Christian lives as Jesus said in (Matthew 16:24) “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.”

What did Jesus me by taking up your cross? Think of what the cross entailed, the ultimate sacrifice committed by Jesus. He was willing to lay down his life for everyone even though he knew many wouldn’t ever love him back. What about the humility he displayed? He has the power to wipe out the entire Roman army with one command, but chose to lay down his life to save ours.

Satan wants you to live in fear and feel hopeless, but by Jesus Christ and the “Power of the Cross” you are and always will be victorious. Remember what Jesus said in Matthews 10:28 “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.”

Thru Jesus Christ and the Power of the Cross, you have defeated death, no matter what Satan throws your way. Carry your cross and follow him, don’t be a fool and perish. In Jesus name Amen