A Sustainable God

This past week, I took a workshop on sustainability.  The workshop helped me understand that small changes in our lifestyle can help sustain our environment.   The term "sustainability" simply means a balance of our resources and actions to ensure equality.  This means that if there is an increase in consumption we must equally conserve in order to reach a sustainable balance. 

During the workshop, I wondered how God was sustainable in our lives.  For every attack of the flesh and the enemy, God equally provides the doors and exits needed to reach a balance.  Ultimately, as Christians we must aim to achieve a sustainable balance in Spirit, emotions, and actions to ensure sustainability or "maturity" in Christ.  Sometimes, little changes in our attitudes and characters is all that is needed to maintain a healthy and balanced walk with God.  Today, aim to achieve sustainability in God and you will find the needed balance that you are desperately desiring. 

Money and Trust

This week, I learned an important lesson:  money is nothing without God's Hand in your life.  I have been working in a couple of side projects in hopes to transition into a new, more stable job.  I had been doing this work without any monetary compensation.  About a month ago, my collaborator indicated that he will try to help me get some monetary incentives for my efforts.  Suddenly, what was supposed to be a voluntary job to honor God and my profession became a monetary quest.  All I thought about was how much I can do so that I can get as much money as I could. But yesterday, a cold reality set it and I was informed by the administration that I am not entitled to any monetary compensation in exchange for any additional work that I do.  That was very frustrating!  I became upset and even toyed with the idea of leaving my job!

Luckily, I have a wonderful spouse that encouraged me and helped me put things into perspective. My spouse said, "You just have to take a chance, trust in God, and never put money in the mix."  As I thought about it, I realized my spouse was right!  What was I doing? The next day, I came upon Proverbs and a verse that talked about not toiling with wealth because once you do, it will fly away as easily as it got on your hands.  I asked God for forgiveness and have refocused my views on God's purpose and His Love.  If you are going through something similar today, remember that your God provides for you and that as long as you keep your eyes on Him, everything will be fine.  

Too Busy for God?

If there is one thing that I do not like about the East Coast is the busy lifestyle. Sure, things get done quicker and more efficiently but at what cost?  It is frustrating to feel so tired that you can't even answer an email from a friend or pick up the Bible and read.  At what point are we too busy for God?

Today, remember that no blessing in your life came from you.  They were all a gift from God who loves you and want to bring you prosperity.  The least you can do is give Him the time He is asking for.  Even if it is 5 minutes a day while you are running to do your errands, make it a point to keep God in your mind, heart, and Spirit.

Do not get suckered into life, its demands, and the tricks of the enemy to remove your intimate relationship with God.  Take a stand!  Be there for God!

Superhero

Last night, I went to see the midnight showing of the Avengers.  Man, what a great movie!  I won't ruin it for you but it is definitely a must watch movie.  We see characters that have the same insecurities as us that when prompted, rise up to the challenge. However, in real life, when a challenge arises we sometimes fail to tackle the problem head on for multiple reasons (fear, self-doubt, self-control). Whatever the reason, we need to realize that we have a super hero inside of us (the Holy Spirit) that is there to ignite the fire whenever situations strike. Remember that we have our shield (The Word) in times of trouble, similar to the Captain America shield in the movie: a strong, powerful, and reliable weapon against the enemy. Today, remember that you are capable of overcoming any obstacle, any challenge, and any struggle because we have our Superhero by our side, ever so vigilant, ever so ready.

Ignite the Fire!

Wow!  What a great service yesterday!  If you missed it, the youth group gave their testimony about their experience in the Acquire the Fire conference.  The excitement for God was contagious.  The youth went to the pew to jump up and down and celebrate the presence of the Holy Spirit.  Suddenly, other church members stood up and praised and danced for God.  I wish all sermons were that way!  We just can't be Sunday Christians and go back to our NORMAL behavior during the week.  As the youth pastor said, "Normal is Not Enough".  We cannot be normal when it comes to serving and praising God.  God uniquely chose us for a reason and we need to show Him everyday that His sacrifice was worth every penny.  Ignite the Fire!  Get up and praise!  Serve and Love Him without pretext and without fear! Don't be normal in Christ!

The Moving Target

Today, I had a day off.  I decided to go to the archery range in Rock Creek Park.  I am just learning how to handle a bow and arrow but already I am starting to appreciate the importance of poise, patience, and relaxation if you want to hit your target.  Similarly, when we are pursuing the goals that we would like to achieve in Christ, we need to remember to calm ourselves, to be happy with our progress and to simply be patient.  Not all goals are achieved in one day.  Sometimes those that take the longest are the ones we remember and appreciate the most.  Today, stay focused and your moving target in life will settle. 

The Talent Within

I was just speaking to a friend that just obtained her doctorate. It was a very difficult journey but she was able to complete it. I was moved when she wrote "Thank you for all your support!"

Sometimes, we like to know that people believe in us. Sometimes, we need that extra push to bring out the natural talents and spiritual gifts we are born with. What we sometimes don't realize is that while we are feeling like we cannot accomplish the tasks that God intends for us to do, we have a whole army of God cheering us on.

Don't allow your fears, anxieties, and negativity get in the way of God's plan for you. God gave you unique gifts and strengths that no one else has. Cater to your strengths, believe that the Holy Spirit will guide you every step of the way and only then will you see the man or woman of God, that He intended you to be.