It's just amazing how God leads me to topics I've been speaking about as He continually tells me more and more about life. A few weeks ago, I spoke on submission and how women tend to see it from a wordly perspective when the concept arises but now, I have a blog post that goes more indepthy into the concept along with marriage itself. I've noticed that today, in the 21st century it is difficult for some men to accept a woman looking to them as the husband to be a leading stable figure in the household and don't know how to accept a woman that submits. Of course, I truly believe that's one of many reasons many relationships don't last because there is always a power struggle and things aren't on a level playing field from the beginning. So, no more delay cause' if you've been searching for this topic on google or some other search engine, I hope my tags helped you a bit.
The Beauty of Submission
In the previous articles, we searched the Scriptures to establish that the authority of God is patriarchal. We also examined the story of the judge, Deborah, as the epitome of a woman in service to the Lord: one who was wise, prudent, proclaimed God's word and supported the patriarchy of God.
What then is the purpose for which woman was created and why is it so critical that she submit to man? One could simply say, "God commanded woman to submit to the man, and that's enough." While that is accurate, God doesn't do things arbitrarily. There is a reason for everything He does...even when we cannot understand it (Isaiah 55:9, Romans 11:34).
"And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him." Genesis 2:18
We stated earlier how the woman must submit to man as a result of Eve's sin in the Garden of Eden. However, notice that her purpose in providing companionship for, and being a help to, man was part of God's original plan. From the beginning, woman was created for man (not man for woman).
The question then becomes, "How is the woman to help the man?" In answering that we find understanding for the role she is to serve and why submission is necessary.
The Heart of the Matter
"And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man." Genesis 2:21-23
When God was creating woman, He took one of Adam's ribs in order to form her. This small point is not insignificant. Again, God does everything for a reason.
The ribs provide one main function: protection for the heart and the lungs. Both the heart and lungs are critical to the life of the body, yet the nature of their work requires that these organs be soft, delicate, and pliable (and thereby in need of protection).
The heart keeps blood flowing, ensuring that life reaches other parts of the body. It also provides a place of refreshing where the blood can get re-oxygenated or revived in order to continue its work. As such, the heart needs to be sensitive and flexible enough to the respond to the body's electrical impulses regarding contraction in order to keep the blood pumping. It is strong and is one of the largest muscles in the human body. It is an involuntary muscle meaning we do not have to consciously tell the heart to beat. It is created to anticipate the needs of the body and does so automatically.
The lungs are the place where gas exchange occurs within the human body; it collects the oxygen needed to give energy to the blood and expels toxins such as carbon dioxide. Similar to the heart, the lungs must be elastic enough to inflate/deflate as needed to support the inhaling and exhaling of air. Again, the lungs are involuntary muscles and expand/contract without willful thought by nature of their design.
The heart and lungs work around the clock, processing on average 8,000 - 9,000 liters of blood and air respectively a day. When they don't work properly, it impacts the whole body's ability to function as it should.
Understanding the functional purpose that these delicate organs serve and how vital their work is to the health of the body, it is clear to see why God - in His infinite wisdom - encased the heart and lungs under the protection of the ribs.
Part 2 of the post tommorrow.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
God Didn't Want That to Happen To You!
All over the United States, there are black women (and men) suffering in silence because of what happened to them while they were children. Well, I want to let you know that God loves you and it was not in His will for anyone to ever physically or sexually abuse, molest or attempt to tamper with your innocence. Okay, I have a friend that would be a bit ashamed for to tell you all this herself but while she was growing up men had attempted to molest her.
When you are growing up and someone trys to molest, rape or abuse you in some way it can really effect who you become as an adult. You might think it doesn't effect you but in all likelihood, it does. So, I asked her, "Do you think you have issues with men because of what happened to you?" I'm paraphrasing but she said that basically, she doesn't trust many men even when it seems that they are legit. Of course, all women should be cautious when it comes to men but if The Holy Spirit has revealed to you the true character of a man, don't be a victim again when God has already told you that the man won't hurt you. For my friend, it's just an issue that God is helping her to deal with and each day she is growing to trust again. It's something like an in and out coming tide: at one moment she may feel hersef growing an attachment to a man but at the next instance, she's struck with the past and how virtually every man she ever met only wanted to use her. And it makes it no better that each time she's tried to step out and form something serious, men have tried to use her again and again.
Now, the main culprit who harrased my friend did so over a period of ages 11-14 but for some of you it may have happened at younger ages. Either way, God didn't want that to happen to you. The person that tried to harm you was not in God's will and was being used by the enemy to keep you from being all God intended. But I'm telling you; it doesn't have to be that way. God can release any shame or guilt you may feel. It was not your fault, please remember that. I know that like most victims, you are probably wondering "Why me?" I'm not exactly sure but I do know a savior that says you can cast your cares on Him.
God wants you to be happy, to live an abundant life not having to think about something someone did to you 10 years ago. Yes, it hurts badly but all your hurts and pains God can take them away. And eventually, you will be brought to a point where you can forgive this person for what they did. So, here is a sample prayer that you can follow:
"Dear Lord, I come to you humbly saying thank you for all you are doing in my life. Thank you for continually being with me Lord, even when no one else is there and I feel all alone. God, you know what *insert names of predator/s* tried to do to me. God, it may have happened long ago but I find myself still being affected by it and I know you want me to be healed. I don't want to cry anymore or wonder why or let this issue come up anymore in my life. I know that one day you will bring me a wonderful King and I don't want to miss out on him because of this issue of my past. So please God, take away my fears, my tears and my pain and heal my emotional wounds by the stripes of Jesus Christ. I believe it's possible and everytime you see me getting emotional over what *insert name of predator* has done, let your love wash over me and comfort me by your Holy Spirit. And even though it hurts, I forgive *insert predator* and ask that you bring them to a point where they are given a new spirt, heart and that you renew their mind. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen."
When you are growing up and someone trys to molest, rape or abuse you in some way it can really effect who you become as an adult. You might think it doesn't effect you but in all likelihood, it does. So, I asked her, "Do you think you have issues with men because of what happened to you?" I'm paraphrasing but she said that basically, she doesn't trust many men even when it seems that they are legit. Of course, all women should be cautious when it comes to men but if The Holy Spirit has revealed to you the true character of a man, don't be a victim again when God has already told you that the man won't hurt you. For my friend, it's just an issue that God is helping her to deal with and each day she is growing to trust again. It's something like an in and out coming tide: at one moment she may feel hersef growing an attachment to a man but at the next instance, she's struck with the past and how virtually every man she ever met only wanted to use her. And it makes it no better that each time she's tried to step out and form something serious, men have tried to use her again and again.
Now, the main culprit who harrased my friend did so over a period of ages 11-14 but for some of you it may have happened at younger ages. Either way, God didn't want that to happen to you. The person that tried to harm you was not in God's will and was being used by the enemy to keep you from being all God intended. But I'm telling you; it doesn't have to be that way. God can release any shame or guilt you may feel. It was not your fault, please remember that. I know that like most victims, you are probably wondering "Why me?" I'm not exactly sure but I do know a savior that says you can cast your cares on Him.
God wants you to be happy, to live an abundant life not having to think about something someone did to you 10 years ago. Yes, it hurts badly but all your hurts and pains God can take them away. And eventually, you will be brought to a point where you can forgive this person for what they did. So, here is a sample prayer that you can follow:
"Dear Lord, I come to you humbly saying thank you for all you are doing in my life. Thank you for continually being with me Lord, even when no one else is there and I feel all alone. God, you know what *insert names of predator/s* tried to do to me. God, it may have happened long ago but I find myself still being affected by it and I know you want me to be healed. I don't want to cry anymore or wonder why or let this issue come up anymore in my life. I know that one day you will bring me a wonderful King and I don't want to miss out on him because of this issue of my past. So please God, take away my fears, my tears and my pain and heal my emotional wounds by the stripes of Jesus Christ. I believe it's possible and everytime you see me getting emotional over what *insert name of predator* has done, let your love wash over me and comfort me by your Holy Spirit. And even though it hurts, I forgive *insert predator* and ask that you bring them to a point where they are given a new spirt, heart and that you renew their mind. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen."
Thursday, May 28, 2009
The Preciousness of a Woman's Body
Okay, it may seem a bit different but sometimes I just simply ponder on how God made things and how it fits together with life itself. So, I was speaking to a Christian associate of mine and he asked, "You know, I wonder sometimes why God made man to like sex so much?" I can't remember what I said at that time but 9 times out of 10 a healthy young man or even not so young tend to desire sexual activity moreso than young women or older women . But this time, I wanted to speak on the preciousness of a woman's body.
I've heard the saying before, "Don't let just anyone park their car in your carage." Of course, we are talking about garages literally but the saying is so true. I was reading on a Christian message board one time and a woman was saying how a woman's genatalia can be assumed to be a bolt and how a man's genatalia is sort of like a screw. I'm paraphrasing but she said that (and I believe it to be true) but intercourse is sort of like a giving and receiving which is why women really need to be careful so they don't end up being screwed!
In all seriousness though, a woman's body is not equipped to handle many different screws or sizes and shapes of penises. This is just the simple nature of things and is why I always admonish you not to give in to temptation. Maybe you think you are so young and fair now at 24 or 25 but what about when you are 34 or 35? What if you don't get married until then? I've known young women who are only around 27 that have had almost thirty male partners which means a partner for more years than she's been on this earth. At this point and as a confessed Christian, she desires to cease this activity but has shown no improvement because only submitting to God's spirit can help you overcome temptation. At one point, she told her then partner who became sick to his stomach and could not even talk to her after finding this information out and now they are no longer together.
Why am I saying all this? Well, hopefully to stop any of you from constantly being screwed. Your body was not made to receive all of these different men like this and what kind of package are you going to have to give your future husband should you ever get married? It's sad to say that most men go around screwing women or sowing their oats and then hope to find that young, beautiful virgin to marry but it's true. But whatever your state of bodily purity, try to remember that your body is precious and God made you wonderfully so make sure you treat yourself this way and that everyone you encounters treats you wonderfully. Don't throw your pearls to swine ladies; save them for your Boaz!
I hope this is helpful to anyone doing google searches so I will start putting tags at the bottom.
I've heard the saying before, "Don't let just anyone park their car in your carage." Of course, we are talking about garages literally but the saying is so true. I was reading on a Christian message board one time and a woman was saying how a woman's genatalia can be assumed to be a bolt and how a man's genatalia is sort of like a screw. I'm paraphrasing but she said that (and I believe it to be true) but intercourse is sort of like a giving and receiving which is why women really need to be careful so they don't end up being screwed!
In all seriousness though, a woman's body is not equipped to handle many different screws or sizes and shapes of penises. This is just the simple nature of things and is why I always admonish you not to give in to temptation. Maybe you think you are so young and fair now at 24 or 25 but what about when you are 34 or 35? What if you don't get married until then? I've known young women who are only around 27 that have had almost thirty male partners which means a partner for more years than she's been on this earth. At this point and as a confessed Christian, she desires to cease this activity but has shown no improvement because only submitting to God's spirit can help you overcome temptation. At one point, she told her then partner who became sick to his stomach and could not even talk to her after finding this information out and now they are no longer together.
Why am I saying all this? Well, hopefully to stop any of you from constantly being screwed. Your body was not made to receive all of these different men like this and what kind of package are you going to have to give your future husband should you ever get married? It's sad to say that most men go around screwing women or sowing their oats and then hope to find that young, beautiful virgin to marry but it's true. But whatever your state of bodily purity, try to remember that your body is precious and God made you wonderfully so make sure you treat yourself this way and that everyone you encounters treats you wonderfully. Don't throw your pearls to swine ladies; save them for your Boaz!
I hope this is helpful to anyone doing google searches so I will start putting tags at the bottom.
Friday, May 22, 2009
On Being A Virtuous Women
In order to glorify God, which is my purpose here on earth, I have a desire to be a virtuous woman. As I was reflecting on this beauty, The Holy Spirit spoke to me and said, "You can be." At this point, I want to speak about the role of a woman in marriage. I understand more of my role as a woman and in the future, a wife and mother. The more I know God, the more I know the kind of creature that He made me to be and understands that the world does try to corrupt the sanctity of womanhood as well as marriage. This is one reason I can't fall-in line with much of the feministic values of the 21st century; too much of it goes against the basis of what God has ordained.
Many times, women usually frown at the word submitt especially when used in marriage. This word is often purposely misconstrued by of course, the enemy. But submission is a God-given concept and can be seen throughout the whole earth. Think about it; there are CEOs, directors, managers, etc. There are commanders, lieutenants and sergeants along with large corporations, small businesses and consumers. Even in the spiritual realm, there are ranks of angels - holy and fallen. Jude 1:9; Ephesians 6:12. Could you imagine if everyone just made decisions and no one submitted to anyone? It would be complete chaos. The purpose of submission is to smooth relationships out and make them conducive or reduce tension/strife. Does it mean you have to give up your brain and have no say so? Of course not; what it means is that if a wife has a dispute with her husband, then out of honor for God she would submitt only if it doesn't disobey God. When you have The Holy Spirit, it's becomes easy to do the things which the world or feminists may seem as crazy.
Though men also have to submitt. In 1 Corinthians 11:3, St.Paul said, "and I wish you to know that of every man the head is the Christ, and the head of a woman is the husband, and the head of Christ is God." See, one thing I understand is that when I choose to submitt to my future husband it is also submitting myself to Jesus Christ and God. That's why it becomes easy because in my heart, I don't see it with natural eyes but rather with spiritual ones; my future husband would be led by Christ.
18And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. Genesis 2:18 God then made several different beasts and brought them to Adam and finally, He put Adam in a deep sleep and made Eve. I believe that God alredy knew He would make Eve but displayed more of His glorious power and creativity by making more animals and also allowing Adam to see that nothing else was fit for Him. For instance, it's a pleasure for a parent to see how their child learns, interacts and grows. If a parent is playing with Legos or wooden shapes with their child, then they might give them everything but the right shape in order for the child to see that nothing else fits. Then, at the end they would give them the right block piece and finally, everything comes together. That's why, even unto this day thousands of years later, men seek out women who they would deem worthy of marriage. It's an innate drive and pursuit that they enemy can not stop or at least he can not diffuse the whole majority of men to defer from God's will to not be alone.
As a virtuous women (in training) there are some things I already possess and some that The Holy Spirit is teaching me now. It's just not enough for me to be a beautiful woman physically, because there are plenty of beautiful women. But as R.A. Vernon said, "So, you look good and got a body-well, so does she and her and yeah, oh her too," and it true! I love being beautiful and glorifying God through my outer image but at the same time, I desire to always be humble having a beautiful heart and virtuous characteristics. In the long run, those along with being in the center of God's will is what will sustain your marriage.
Many times, women usually frown at the word submitt especially when used in marriage. This word is often purposely misconstrued by of course, the enemy. But submission is a God-given concept and can be seen throughout the whole earth. Think about it; there are CEOs, directors, managers, etc. There are commanders, lieutenants and sergeants along with large corporations, small businesses and consumers. Even in the spiritual realm, there are ranks of angels - holy and fallen. Jude 1:9; Ephesians 6:12. Could you imagine if everyone just made decisions and no one submitted to anyone? It would be complete chaos. The purpose of submission is to smooth relationships out and make them conducive or reduce tension/strife. Does it mean you have to give up your brain and have no say so? Of course not; what it means is that if a wife has a dispute with her husband, then out of honor for God she would submitt only if it doesn't disobey God. When you have The Holy Spirit, it's becomes easy to do the things which the world or feminists may seem as crazy.
Though men also have to submitt. In 1 Corinthians 11:3, St.Paul said, "and I wish you to know that of every man the head is the Christ, and the head of a woman is the husband, and the head of Christ is God." See, one thing I understand is that when I choose to submitt to my future husband it is also submitting myself to Jesus Christ and God. That's why it becomes easy because in my heart, I don't see it with natural eyes but rather with spiritual ones; my future husband would be led by Christ.
18And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. Genesis 2:18 God then made several different beasts and brought them to Adam and finally, He put Adam in a deep sleep and made Eve. I believe that God alredy knew He would make Eve but displayed more of His glorious power and creativity by making more animals and also allowing Adam to see that nothing else was fit for Him. For instance, it's a pleasure for a parent to see how their child learns, interacts and grows. If a parent is playing with Legos or wooden shapes with their child, then they might give them everything but the right shape in order for the child to see that nothing else fits. Then, at the end they would give them the right block piece and finally, everything comes together. That's why, even unto this day thousands of years later, men seek out women who they would deem worthy of marriage. It's an innate drive and pursuit that they enemy can not stop or at least he can not diffuse the whole majority of men to defer from God's will to not be alone.
As a virtuous women (in training) there are some things I already possess and some that The Holy Spirit is teaching me now. It's just not enough for me to be a beautiful woman physically, because there are plenty of beautiful women. But as R.A. Vernon said, "So, you look good and got a body-well, so does she and her and yeah, oh her too," and it true! I love being beautiful and glorifying God through my outer image but at the same time, I desire to always be humble having a beautiful heart and virtuous characteristics. In the long run, those along with being in the center of God's will is what will sustain your marriage.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
5 Signs of an Abusive Man
So, these past two months people, especially black women have been really dogging this young lady Rihanna out. I mean, it's so bad; people are saying she should've died when they thought she was pressing charges against Chris Brown and just really mean things. But I've known of some young women who were in abusive relationships before and thank God they are out now but looking at them, you wouldn't think they'd be the 'type' to be in that kind of relationship. People didn't think Rihanna was the 'type' nor did people think Halle Berry was the type but it's not really about being pretty or beautiful, it about the inside traits that lead people to go through these hardships.
*JACKED*
JealousyAt the beginning of a relationship, an abuser will always say the jealousy is a sign of love. He/she may question you about whom you have spoken to or seen during the day, may accuse you of flirting, or be jealous of time you spend with family, friends, children or hobbies which do not include him/her. As the jealousy progresses, he/she may call you frequently during the day or drop by unexpectedly. He may be unhappy about or refuse to let you work for fear you'll meet someone else, check the car mileage or ask friends to keep an eye on you. Jealousy is not proof of love, it is a sign of insecurity and possessiveness.
Controlling BehaviourControlling behaviour is often disguised or excused as concern. Concern for your safety, your emotional or mental health, the need to use your time well, or to make sensible decisions. Your abuser may be angry or upset if you are 'late' coming back from work, shopping, visiting friends, etc., even if you told him/her you would be later back than usual. Your abuser may question you closely about where you were, whom you spoke to, the content of every conversation you held, or why you did something he/she was not involved in. As this behaviour gets worse, you may not be allowed to make personal decisions about the house, clothing, going to church or how you spend your time or money or even make you ask for permission to leave the house or room. Alternately, he/she may theoretically allow you your own decisions, but penalise you for making the wrong ones. Concern for our loved ones to a certain extent is normal - trying to control their every move is not.
Quick Involvement
Many victims of abuse dated or knew their abuser for less than six months before they were engaged or living together. The abuser will often claim 'love at first sight', that you are 'made for each other', or that you are the only person whom he could ever talk to so openly, feel so at home with, could understand him so well. He/she may tell you that they have never loved anyone so much or felt so loved by anyone so much before, when you have really only known each other for a short amount of time. He/she needs someone desperately, and will pressure you to commit to him/her or make love before you feel the relationship has reached 'that stage'. He/she may also make you feel guilty for not committing yourself to him/her.
Unrealistic Expectations
The abuser may expects you to be the perfect husband, wife, mother, father, lover, and friend. He/she is very dependent on you for all his/her needs, and may tell you he/she can fulfil all your needs as lover, friend, and companion. Statements such as: 'lf you love me, I'm all you need.', 'You are all I need.' are common. Your abuser may expect you to provide everything for him/her emotionally, practically, financially or spiritually, and then blame you for not being perfect or living up to expectation.
Isolation
The abuser may try to curtail your social interaction. He/she may prevent you from spending time with your friends or family and demand that you only go places 'together'. He/she may accuse you of being 'tied to your mother's apron strings', not be committed to the relationship, or view people who are your personal friends as 'causing trouble' or 'trying to put a wedge' between you. He/she may want to live in the country without a phone, not let you use the car, stop you from working or gaining further education or qualifications.
I wanted to add that these men are master manipulators. They know which strings to pull and even do so just to get a reaction out of you; it's like a game or fun to them. One way that wasn't mentioned in the signs above is that you should never feel afraid or scared of their reaction if you did something you know they would probably go "balistic" about, like calling them an hour or two later than you said. They will use their anger as a way to make you scared of them and guilty if you don't do something they want. It's best that you safely exit the relationship now because it will only get worse.
If they are constantly saying stuff like, "I oughta' slap the * * out of you," then what makes you think they won't actually do it one day? You are so much better than that and deserved to be treated like a queen.
*JACKED*
JealousyAt the beginning of a relationship, an abuser will always say the jealousy is a sign of love. He/she may question you about whom you have spoken to or seen during the day, may accuse you of flirting, or be jealous of time you spend with family, friends, children or hobbies which do not include him/her. As the jealousy progresses, he/she may call you frequently during the day or drop by unexpectedly. He may be unhappy about or refuse to let you work for fear you'll meet someone else, check the car mileage or ask friends to keep an eye on you. Jealousy is not proof of love, it is a sign of insecurity and possessiveness.
Controlling BehaviourControlling behaviour is often disguised or excused as concern. Concern for your safety, your emotional or mental health, the need to use your time well, or to make sensible decisions. Your abuser may be angry or upset if you are 'late' coming back from work, shopping, visiting friends, etc., even if you told him/her you would be later back than usual. Your abuser may question you closely about where you were, whom you spoke to, the content of every conversation you held, or why you did something he/she was not involved in. As this behaviour gets worse, you may not be allowed to make personal decisions about the house, clothing, going to church or how you spend your time or money or even make you ask for permission to leave the house or room. Alternately, he/she may theoretically allow you your own decisions, but penalise you for making the wrong ones. Concern for our loved ones to a certain extent is normal - trying to control their every move is not.
Quick Involvement
Many victims of abuse dated or knew their abuser for less than six months before they were engaged or living together. The abuser will often claim 'love at first sight', that you are 'made for each other', or that you are the only person whom he could ever talk to so openly, feel so at home with, could understand him so well. He/she may tell you that they have never loved anyone so much or felt so loved by anyone so much before, when you have really only known each other for a short amount of time. He/she needs someone desperately, and will pressure you to commit to him/her or make love before you feel the relationship has reached 'that stage'. He/she may also make you feel guilty for not committing yourself to him/her.
Unrealistic Expectations
The abuser may expects you to be the perfect husband, wife, mother, father, lover, and friend. He/she is very dependent on you for all his/her needs, and may tell you he/she can fulfil all your needs as lover, friend, and companion. Statements such as: 'lf you love me, I'm all you need.', 'You are all I need.' are common. Your abuser may expect you to provide everything for him/her emotionally, practically, financially or spiritually, and then blame you for not being perfect or living up to expectation.
Isolation
The abuser may try to curtail your social interaction. He/she may prevent you from spending time with your friends or family and demand that you only go places 'together'. He/she may accuse you of being 'tied to your mother's apron strings', not be committed to the relationship, or view people who are your personal friends as 'causing trouble' or 'trying to put a wedge' between you. He/she may want to live in the country without a phone, not let you use the car, stop you from working or gaining further education or qualifications.
I wanted to add that these men are master manipulators. They know which strings to pull and even do so just to get a reaction out of you; it's like a game or fun to them. One way that wasn't mentioned in the signs above is that you should never feel afraid or scared of their reaction if you did something you know they would probably go "balistic" about, like calling them an hour or two later than you said. They will use their anger as a way to make you scared of them and guilty if you don't do something they want. It's best that you safely exit the relationship now because it will only get worse.
If they are constantly saying stuff like, "I oughta' slap the * * out of you," then what makes you think they won't actually do it one day? You are so much better than that and deserved to be treated like a queen.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Worship and Praise...It's What We Do!
Hey y'all. I pray that you've been doing well and living in God's will for your life.
It's so good to be back and talking with you all and seems like I've had quite a hiatus from this blog though it hasn't quite been a month. But you all know that I attempt keep you consistently engaged though other activities prevent that.
This week, I wanted to discuss something that I spoke about in one of my earlier posts and something I just learned in the past few months. It deals with the basic question that many human beings ask themselves: Why am I here? It also deals with questions many Christians ask themselves: What can I do to grow closer to God?
Well, the first question I really didn't understand until around last year even though I audibly heard the answer of the purpose of humanity when I was in high school. However, at that time I didn't fully receive or understand what he meant. But I know that over my life time, I have heard many, many people ask this question: Why am I here? The simplest way that I can put it is that humanity was made for the glory of God and so was the earth. That is why we are here: to glorify the creator of all things that exist, God Almighty, Jehovah Jireh, I am that I am, Alpha and Omega, etc. When I say the creator of all things that exist, I do not mean a "higher power" which I often times hear many people use as if they are saying they believe in God. I am saying the creator of all things that exist according to the scripture in John chapter 1, verse 3: He created everything that there is. Nothing exists that he didn't make.
A few weeks ago, I was watching a commercial and it instantly didn't sit right with me and I am speaking of the content of the material. No, there wasn't anyone naked or any brutality being conveyed but the message of the commercial advocated evolution which as a follower of Jesus Christ, I do not believe in. In this particular evolution theory, they used an Amoeba (or the smallerst living single-cell organism) to show how it turned into a fish, then a lizzard, then a monkey, then a caveman, then a man in the 21st century chewing gum. Okay, this evolution theory says that an amoeba turned into a fish, then a lizzard but if the fish turned into a lizzard, why do we still have fish today? Furthermore, if it took one amoeba to turn into all the things which make up the earth, then why are some living things inactive and others are active. What would make the smallest single-celled living organism differentiate between evolving into a tree versus a bear or a deer. Further more, this theory does not explain how the sun, moon, stars or galaxy came into existence. In such theories, there is always a purpose behind why creatures look or behave the way they do now yet I am waiting for science to explain evolution's response to why every human being ever born will not have the same finger print as another human being; what purpose in evolution could this serve?
Now, in the book of Romans it say that the invisible qualities of God have been clearly seen. In the basic English version the scripture look like, "20For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature,(A) have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse." It says in previous passages that the wicked will experience God's anger because "the truth about God is known to them instinctively" and that "God has put this knowledge in their hearts." If you simply take time to look at the sky, or the flowers, or insects, or anything that you can see, it is truly wonderful how creative God is. There could be hundreds or thousands of different species of insects or trees, or even how beautifully the sky changes colors of organge, dark blue, pink, white, etc. We often take these small things forgranted but simple reflection reveals the true beauty of it all and the nature of God and how he ordains each thing to fufill a purpose. Human beings, which are creatd a little lower than anels are also ordained to fufill a purpose and glorify God.
That is why we are here, to glorify God through our obedience, worship, love, praise, etc. When you think of all he's done for us, it isn't much to ask. One thing I've learned about humans is that since we are made to glorify God and worship Him, that even if we turn from this we still end up glorifying and worshipping something because that is what God has put in us from the beginning. He lets us choose where we will walk in that innate passion to worship and if it will be Him or something else. All throughout the bible, God tells us that we shall have no other God's before Him. We should not put anything above our relationship with Him or make it our complete object of affection. For some, its the pursuit of money where they may do any and everything to obtain money even if its goes against the Word of God. I don't want you to think that you shouldn't pursue being wealthy or having money because it is God's will that you have life abundanlty in all arenas, yet there also should still be a balance. You have to make sure that you seek Him first and not the money or other things you may fancy.
In my years of trying to walk in obedience to God in His will, I never understood the importance of worship and praise in this pursuit. I had walked in obedience and prayed but was missing the worship part of being a Christian that is soo important. As explained to me one day, "God is looking for the true worshippers..." All this time, I had been trying to find God as the bible says we should seek Him but a pastor revealed on television that there are times when God will seek you out - one of them is during a time of true worship. Jesus says in John, "23But(A) the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father(B) in spirit and(C) truth, for the Father(D) is seeking such people to worship him." This means that when you worship God in spirit and in truth, God is looking for you. In Psalm, King David says that God is searching the whole earth to see if anyone has understanding. So, when you humble yourself, ask for forgiveness, truly repent and worship God, He is looking for you.
I will go into more detail about worship in the next blog post. Until then, I pray that God's will is done in your life as it is in heaven every single day that you breathe.
It's so good to be back and talking with you all and seems like I've had quite a hiatus from this blog though it hasn't quite been a month. But you all know that I attempt keep you consistently engaged though other activities prevent that.
This week, I wanted to discuss something that I spoke about in one of my earlier posts and something I just learned in the past few months. It deals with the basic question that many human beings ask themselves: Why am I here? It also deals with questions many Christians ask themselves: What can I do to grow closer to God?
Well, the first question I really didn't understand until around last year even though I audibly heard the answer of the purpose of humanity when I was in high school. However, at that time I didn't fully receive or understand what he meant. But I know that over my life time, I have heard many, many people ask this question: Why am I here? The simplest way that I can put it is that humanity was made for the glory of God and so was the earth. That is why we are here: to glorify the creator of all things that exist, God Almighty, Jehovah Jireh, I am that I am, Alpha and Omega, etc. When I say the creator of all things that exist, I do not mean a "higher power" which I often times hear many people use as if they are saying they believe in God. I am saying the creator of all things that exist according to the scripture in John chapter 1, verse 3: He created everything that there is. Nothing exists that he didn't make.
A few weeks ago, I was watching a commercial and it instantly didn't sit right with me and I am speaking of the content of the material. No, there wasn't anyone naked or any brutality being conveyed but the message of the commercial advocated evolution which as a follower of Jesus Christ, I do not believe in. In this particular evolution theory, they used an Amoeba (or the smallerst living single-cell organism) to show how it turned into a fish, then a lizzard, then a monkey, then a caveman, then a man in the 21st century chewing gum. Okay, this evolution theory says that an amoeba turned into a fish, then a lizzard but if the fish turned into a lizzard, why do we still have fish today? Furthermore, if it took one amoeba to turn into all the things which make up the earth, then why are some living things inactive and others are active. What would make the smallest single-celled living organism differentiate between evolving into a tree versus a bear or a deer. Further more, this theory does not explain how the sun, moon, stars or galaxy came into existence. In such theories, there is always a purpose behind why creatures look or behave the way they do now yet I am waiting for science to explain evolution's response to why every human being ever born will not have the same finger print as another human being; what purpose in evolution could this serve?
Now, in the book of Romans it say that the invisible qualities of God have been clearly seen. In the basic English version the scripture look like, "20For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature,(A) have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse." It says in previous passages that the wicked will experience God's anger because "the truth about God is known to them instinctively" and that "God has put this knowledge in their hearts." If you simply take time to look at the sky, or the flowers, or insects, or anything that you can see, it is truly wonderful how creative God is. There could be hundreds or thousands of different species of insects or trees, or even how beautifully the sky changes colors of organge, dark blue, pink, white, etc. We often take these small things forgranted but simple reflection reveals the true beauty of it all and the nature of God and how he ordains each thing to fufill a purpose. Human beings, which are creatd a little lower than anels are also ordained to fufill a purpose and glorify God.
That is why we are here, to glorify God through our obedience, worship, love, praise, etc. When you think of all he's done for us, it isn't much to ask. One thing I've learned about humans is that since we are made to glorify God and worship Him, that even if we turn from this we still end up glorifying and worshipping something because that is what God has put in us from the beginning. He lets us choose where we will walk in that innate passion to worship and if it will be Him or something else. All throughout the bible, God tells us that we shall have no other God's before Him. We should not put anything above our relationship with Him or make it our complete object of affection. For some, its the pursuit of money where they may do any and everything to obtain money even if its goes against the Word of God. I don't want you to think that you shouldn't pursue being wealthy or having money because it is God's will that you have life abundanlty in all arenas, yet there also should still be a balance. You have to make sure that you seek Him first and not the money or other things you may fancy.
In my years of trying to walk in obedience to God in His will, I never understood the importance of worship and praise in this pursuit. I had walked in obedience and prayed but was missing the worship part of being a Christian that is soo important. As explained to me one day, "God is looking for the true worshippers..." All this time, I had been trying to find God as the bible says we should seek Him but a pastor revealed on television that there are times when God will seek you out - one of them is during a time of true worship. Jesus says in John, "23But(A) the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father(B) in spirit and(C) truth, for the Father(D) is seeking such people to worship him." This means that when you worship God in spirit and in truth, God is looking for you. In Psalm, King David says that God is searching the whole earth to see if anyone has understanding. So, when you humble yourself, ask for forgiveness, truly repent and worship God, He is looking for you.
I will go into more detail about worship in the next blog post. Until then, I pray that God's will is done in your life as it is in heaven every single day that you breathe.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
The Beauty of Pregnancy
I don't know specifically why, but it seems that in the past two years my desire to have a child has tremendously increased. I find myself looking at third-trimester pregnant women with a sense of awe and wonderment. I mean, it's so beautiful to me. The fact that you actually have a life, a little person, another human being growing inside of you that in the most optimal situation is the result of your love for your husband and his love for you.
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