Resolutions Revisited

Resolutions Revisited

At the close of every year many folks find themselves in recollection and real reflection of the past 365 days of their lives. Regardless of whether we perceive our past 12 months to be joyous or regretful, many will dare to participate in the ritualistic act of establishing new goals and personal decrees for ourselves for the upcoming year.

I often find that many of us will create these “new” objectives for the year that, truth is, aren’t new and innovative in the least. I personally grew weary of drafting the same resolutions year after year that were totally rooted in selfish gain and egocentric ambition. Hundreds of news articles, TV commercials, and even some sermons also seemed to promote a type of self-centered thinking and practice. “How to loose 60 pounds and look good by February….Find the job of your dreams this year….Land the house of your dreams”…, etc. Any of these sound familiar?

I am not suggesting that we negate all personal and private goals for ourselves. We need well defined goals to help us stay focused in life. Rather, I am simply suggesting that we also make every effort this year to move beyond the self and be carriers of peace, power, and love for someone else.

Philippians 2:3 says, “Let NOTHING be done in selfish ambition and conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

I strongly believe that God wants us to live abundant, well-balanced lives. This, to me, includes loving and nurturing others just as much as we love on ourselves.

The sweet irony of this shift in focus is that by directing your intentions towards empowering others, you too, will be empowered and will reap in prosperity. Trust and believe in this principle. Proverbs 11:25 declares that “a generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

So with this truth in mind, I am proposing something different for myself and others this New Year. For every one resolution you develop for personal edification, develop one that is strictly targeted at edifying another. Begin with small, simple, realistic goals. For example,

Resolution #1.
Talk behind someone’s back regularly.
Once a week, for a year, spread the word to several others about the talents or accomplishments of a coworker, spouse, or salesman at your favorite store.

OR

Resolution #2.
Commit to sending a random and anonymous “love” note, letter, or package to someone in need once a month.

OR

Resolution #3
Each time someone has seriously offended you, do or say something kind and sincere in return. (This will feel very unnatural to most at first, but it produces so much good!!)

By practicing love and kindness on a regular basis we really ARE changing our reality and the world we live in. This new existence is created for us and THROUGH us by one random acts of kindness at a time.

Let’s invest our energies in something that will yield the long term results we crave for every New Year. After all, diets often fail. Get rich quick schemes will fizzle away. And the truth is that relationships often must come to an end. But LOVE NEVER FAILS.
(I Corinthians 13: 8a).

Let LOVE be the daily affirmation that inspires you this year!!!

A Must See: "What's Your Cardboard Testimony"

What you are about to witness will impact your life.
After you clear the tears... share it with your family and friends.
And then share your cardboard testimony in the comments section below.
Thanks & God bless!
-Joshua

The "Me... Myself... and I" Factor

One of the most difficult battles to overcome is the battle that takes place within. Before we ever attempt to take on and overcome the challenges that exist around us, the happenings within us determines how we handle what is before us.

Psychotherapist Sheldon Koop asserts, "All the significant battles are waged within self." When I think about all of the difficult times I had to face, had it not been for Lord and His strength to bring under submission all of drama that took place within me, I would have caused further drama in the situation at hand.

A Pastor, by the name of Dr. Cheeks in McLean, Va., also shared that "if we're not afraid to be honest with ourselves, we too, can overcome the battle of the divided self." If we do not rapidly respond to the dangers of this "divided-self", it will pull us in the opposite direction of God seeking to please the "me, myself, and I" factor.

If you are consistently struggling to handle difficult moments that pop up causing you to lose your temper, resulting in loose words you later regret, use these moments as alarms indicating that there is something within you that Jesus has yet to handle. Paul cries in Romans 7, "who can separate me from this body of death... Jesus!" Call on the Lord. Spend time with the Lord, and He will free you from this battle.

Paul says in 2 Corinthians 10:3-6, "For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete.

Obeying the call to handle yourself first (spend time dealing with your internal wrestles through Christ), difficult times and trying moments that tend to catch you off guard will no long have power over you.

Take Advantage of Technology

Are you always on the go? Do you find it difficult to spend that much needed time in the Word? Has it been difficult for you to slow down and to take a moment to be rejuvenated by reading the Word? If this is you, we have some recommendations that will aid you in your time in the Word.

The first recommendation that we suggest for you is to analyze your daily routine to either cut back what is not necessary or to insert time in the Word as priority above everything else on that day. Matthew 6:33 says to seek Him first and everything else will be added to you. So why spend the entire day, in your own strength, attempting to make things happen when the Lord is waiting for you to come to Him.

Secondly, the Lord has blessed us with a vast array of technologies that we encourage to use at your advantage. And a great product for those always on the road is the "Bible Experience". This is a moving dramatization of the entire Bible featuring a cast of over 200, including Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett and Fred Hammond, along with vivid sound effects and a lush cinematic score. When I first heard this it changed my life! This expereince literally places you right in the text. And it brings the scriptures to life!

You can purchase the Bible Experience in CD or MP3 formats, which means you can upload it on your computer, laptop and MP3 player to listen it while in route to work. This is ideal for those who ride public transportation. And if you drive to work, pop in the CD. Your commute becomes your time in the Word. And what a better way to arrive at work empowered by the Word. And I'm sure your family will appreciate it when you've spent time listening to the Word before coming home after a tough day.

Jesus told the devil in the wilderness that man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God (MT 4:4, NIV). There should be no excuse for spending time in the Word. Take advantage of the technologies available to keep us in the Word, because our lives depend on it.

A New Social Network for the Saints!

Good news family...

We've launched a new Christian Social Network called Kingdom Minded Connection. Although Kingdom Minded Coach is a blog that offers great spiritual insight and encouragement, it is limited in its interaction. Here at KM Coach you can only comment, but at Kingdom Minded Connection you will have unlimited interaction that allows you to create your own homepage and it gives you the opportunity to post your own thoughts and views relating to your spiritual journey.

This new social network gives Christians a place online to fellowship, post events, find events, share photos, upload videos, blog, start discussions, testify, and so much more! When you have the chance please visit the network and join, its free. Once signed in you can join an existing group or add a group for the members of your church, ministry, choir or bible class as simple as 1, 2, 3! If your church is going skating, bowling, or ya'll are in revival... share it with the network by adding it to the events.

Thanks for taking the time to visit Kingdom Minded Connection at www.kingdommindedconnect.com.

Sign in and join the fellowship!

Avoid Burnout

1 Kings 19: 4-6

...while he himself went a day's journey into the desert. He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, LORD," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors." Then he lay down under the tree and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, "Get up and eat." He looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.

I ran across an article on Entrepreneur.com that gives readers several trips on "how to avoid occupational burnout", and I thought how interesting it is that entrepreneurs are battling with many similarities as do Christian servant-leaders who are working for the Kingdom. Most of those working for the Kingdom are bi-vocational workers who volunteer their time and services at church. So after working 9 to 12 hour days in the office, some head over to the church the same evening or at least once or twice later in the week and press to potentially burning themselves out.

The article suggests that the "entrepreneur spirit", although it is good, is one that has the potential of turning into an obsession. I won't necessarily call our love for Christ an obsession, but it becomes a thin line when our passion and our drive for what we do for the church has nothing to do with Christ. I've witnessed over time how some saints who love worship so much become worshipers who nothing but worship worship and not God. The same also applies to the various ministries that they participate in. It is all about that ministry and not the entire Body of Christ, or close to any understanding about working together for the Kingdom.

Nevertheless, there are signs that help us all determine whether or not we are heading for burnout. According to the article, the Entrepreneur may contend with canceling social events to spend more time at the office, they rarely take vacations, and they spend more time answering the cell or emails for work when they are off duty. Now for the saints, as much as we can't get enough of being at church or in fellowship with other saints, there are signs that we too are headed for burnout. And many saints battle guilt of not being able to serve in the church or they are dealing with the guilt by not meeting the needs at home because they have been at the church all week.

The article tells entrepreneurs to set priorities, delegate, take on new and exciting projects, and to keep learning. However, for the saints and you "Kingdompreneurs"as I call it... the remedy is not that difficult. Although I agree with setting priorities, delegating, and being open to what's new and fresh with an open mind so you won't get stressed and worried about why things are not the same... avoiding burnout in the Kingdom requires one thing, spending more time with God. Whether it is reading His Word, sitting still, or in prayer spending time with God will keep us from burning out.

Spending time with God helps us avoid burnout, but the signs of reaching burnout are simple. A clear indication that a saint is out of fellowship with God is when they are short with you, irritable quite often, easily tempered when asked to do anything, and they consistently mummer and complain about the changes that are occurring around them. Elijah, in 1 Kings 19, struggled with burnout, but God taught him how important it was to step back for a minute, get into His presence, let Him minister to you, and then get back in to action.

One simple remedy for avoiding burnout in the Kingdom and in the business world is to stop depending on our own strength. Trying to doing things absent of the presence and power of Christ will lead us straight to burnout. Spend as much time as you can sitting with the Lord, studying His Word, and allowing time for Him to minister to you by availing yourself to His correction and cleansing (1 Jn 1:9). Even if you have falling prey to burnout, it is never too late to bounce back! For the Lord says to us that if we hunger and thirst for righteousness, we shall be filled (Mt 5:6)!

This is done by shutting out the world, turning the television and radio off, put the cell on silent and the laptop on stand-by, and find a nice quiet spot to be by yourself so you can spend the time in His presence. You may not feel anything while there or you may not understand what you are reading and studying, but trust me... He uses what little time we give Him to prepare us for tasks that lie ahead.

Take better care of yourselves and those around you by taking time to see about God.

A Must Read...

Hey My Brothers!
I ran across a great read that will bless your life! In addition to your daily devotions and time studying the Word, check out Henry and Tom Blackaby's book "The Man God Uses". Its a short easy read that can be used for a men's group. In fact, my church uses this book for Men's Bible Study and the study has been off the hook!
Check it out... you will be blessed!

"I'm Not Going Out Like That"

Now there were four men with leprosy at the entrance of the city gate. They said to each other, "Why stay here until we die? If we say, 'We'll go into the city'-the famine is there, and we will die. And if we stay here, we will die. So let's go over to the camp of the Arameans and surrender. If they spare us, we live; if they kill us, then we die." 2 Kings 7:3-4

While reading the Holy writ the other day, I happened across a short story that is woven within a major story. It was the one where the four lepers were at a gate in Israel wrestling with making a major life decision. A famine has plagued the land over the years due to the kings participation in idolatry, which left the people and these four lepers anticipating certain death that was drawing near.

Surprisingly, the four unnamed men were determined not to let the famine dictate their lives. They still had charge over their plight, which somewhat lessoned the strength of the famine. They determined that staying where they were, where the famine was at its best, they would surely die. The better option for them was to take a risk... or shall I say they stepped out on faith. They decided to go in a direction that they had never gone before. They literally said to the famine "we are not going out like that!"

With all that is happening today in our economy, everyone... even the saints, have literally been making life decisions at the pump, in the food market, with retirement accounts, and I hate to say it but even in their tithes and offering. Everyone at one level or another has felt the effects of an economy that has turned upside down. Although the effects of the a down trodden economy has put a squeeze on our pockets and purses, as saints, we should not allow it to squeeze out our faith.

My encouragement to you today is to stay strong in the faith! Make a declaration that you are not going to let what is happening in the world change your perspective and perception on who God is and what He is more than capable of doing in your life. Keep the faith and watch God set you up for a major blessing.

The lepers left the gate and went to the Aramean camp. When they arrived at the camp they received the blessing of a life time. As they stepped out on faith God made provision prior to the lepers arriving at the camp. God always shows himself trustworthy when you exercise your faith. And if only we trust Him in seasons when we're challenged in our health, challenged in our relationships, and challenged in our finances we too will receive the same when we tell our famines that "we're not going out like that!"

"Built to Last"

When the Lord commissioned Paul to go to Rome, which concluded his third missionary journey, Paul had already been through enough to have to deal with more problems or opposition. During his first missionary journey he was stoned and severely flogged. It was during his second missionary journey when he was stripped, beaten, and then thrown in prison. And at the outset of his third journey, rioters literally wanted Paul dead all because he shared the truth of the Gospel of Jesus the Christ. Needless to say, Paul had already endured enough to have to go through anything else while in route to Rome.

Nevertheless, while in route to Rome, the ship that Paul had traveled on ran aground and crumbled to pieces. In fact the story has it in the 28th chapter of the book of Acts that the men who could not swim drifted to the shore on the broken pieces. Similar to the men, there are times in our lives when we are literally drifting on the broken pieces of our lives. We have had heartbreaks, setbacks, and disappointments, but we have drifted in on broken pieces. In other words, we have been through some turbulent times, but we're still here. Yet, the main point I want for you to learn and to be encouraged from this story is that once Paul made it to the shore he did not let his situation change who he was.

The bibles say that the islanders came out to welcome them and to build a fire because they were wet and exhausted from the crash. But Paul, unlike the others, went right to work. Paul did not let his circumstances change who he was. He kept on serving. He kept on pressing. Why... because he had a Word. You see, before the storm altered their course and shipwrecked them, the Lord told Paul he would make it to Rome. When the Lord speaks a Word to you, your situations may change, your environment may change, but you will remain true to who you are. Paul had a Word to hold on to. And by this Word he was built to last.

Paul was made for this. He was equipped and prepared for this...

...and the Lord shows us through Paul that we too are build to last. Yes, times are challenging, but I am here to tell you that you can handle whatever happens in your life. You can and will make it through the storms and the shipwrecks of life, because the Lord has equipped you and prepared you for all seasons of life. Whether its stormy or clear skies, whether your 401k is growing or rapidly diverging, the Lord has spoken a Word in your life. And its His Word that lets us know we can handle it!

No matter where you are in life, you have been built to last!

"Stop Tripping"

Despite the enormous amount of drama that is prevailing across the globe, we, the Kingdom Citizens - Believers of the Lord Jesus who is the Christ, ought to bear witness that the happenings in this world do not dictate who we are or the faith that we have in God. Although there have been hurricanes in the Gulf, fires that have swept across wild lands, dark clouds hovering over the homes a thousands of families due to casualties of a senseless war, the market and economy has turned upset down, banks are closing, insurance agencies are folding, employment is decreasing as jobs are becoming a scarcity, and foreclosures and homelessness is at it highest... in the mist of all of this Kingdom Citizens should be encouraged to know that God still has a plan.

Unlike the Prophet Samuel, regardless of what occurrences take place in our lives we should never overlook the fact that God always has a plan. In 1 Samuel 16, God literally told Samuel to stop tripping over the fact that He was removing Saul from the throne. Saul's life had changed in an instant. And Samuel's world also came crashing in because things were happening different from the way he had thought they would be. As result of God's plan, Samuel became stagnate and spent a season grieving because he was close to Saul.

"How long will you mourn for Saul since I have rejected him.... fill your horn... be on your way", God commanded Samuel. In other words, get over it and keep moving. Rather than spending time reflecting on how things used to be and how much better things were then, get over it and keep moving forward. I'm sure those of you reading this are wondering how one can just get over a friend losing their job and/or their livelihood. Well, I feel ya'. However, according to this story, what will help us get over it is knowing that God is over it! And if God is over it, then why are we losing sleep, having nervous breakdowns, and stressing out over it?

Stop tripping! There is a reason why things are the way they are. And since God is behind the reason we should be assured in knowing that everything is going to be all right! "And we know that in all things God works... " Rm 8:28. If God is working in all things then why am I tripping.

Kingdom Minded Couples

"Condom Sense"...?

Essence Magazine has featured an article in their September 2008 edition with intentions to heighten the awareness of protected sex. The advice given is to assist cautious females who find themselves in the heat of the moment trying to deny their partner’s request not to use protection. “Just this one time”, the male says as the female almost helplessly yet cautiously tries to use common sense without killing the moment.

Four points of reference are given to help avoid throwing caution (and condoms) to the wind. If he says this, she should say that… four subsequent ways to respond in the moment for the female to protect herself without dampening the mood. With the alarming statistics for women affected by the pandemic of HIV/AIDS, I completely understand the author and editor’s intent to pro-actively address the issues at hand.

However, when it comes to your sex life verses your spiritual lifestyle, when does Christ-centeredness trump “condom sense”? Now, I know Essence is not solely targeting a biblical-based community. But should we, Kingdom Citizens, spend more time teaching and equipping the church on safe sex since we all know most folk are going to do it anyway? Or should we educate ourselves about the consequences of premarital sex, etc. etc., while encouraging abstinence or celibacy and a lifestyle that pleases God?

I guess what I'm really trying to say is... Should the church hand out condoms and/or the Cross?

What do you think? Let’s hear from you!

Kill it with Kindness

"If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Romans 12:20

Does your temper often get the best of you, because of what someone says or does to you? Do you find it hard refraining from exploding simply because the nerve that is next to your last nerve had been plucked? Has it been easy for others to push your buttons resulting in a few choice words expressing how you really feel? Have you ever been in a predicament where your reactions were contrary to the “new you” that you’ve grown to be? If any of this is close to what you have experienced in your lifetime, know that you are not alone. Most of us, whether we are honest with ourselves or not, will have or have already had moments where we let the moment get the best of us.

I, for one, know how frustrating it is to let something creep under your skin when you’ve done your best not to let it affect you. Yet and still it does. And before you know it your returning the very same thing that was delivered to you. This is exactly what it was designed to do. No matter what the situation, the argument, or the disagreement was the ultimate goal and objective was to get us to feed into it. And before we know it, we’ve lost our civility. We have “laid our ‘ligion down”.

If this is familiar, no need to despair. All hope is not lost. My first encouragement to you today is to know that everything does not require a response… Especially when you have yet to get your thoughts together. (Tell your neighbor “Hear this…” ) – Before you respond to whatever it is, before you “go-off”, please take time to get yourself together before you respond. Amen somebody!

Before Jesus responded to the adulterous women’s accusers in John chapter 8, He had a moment to collect Himself before He responded. You know the story, Jesus bent down and wrote in the ground, and then He responded… I like to think Jesus ignored them for second. Sometimes you have to ignore to ignorance of others and give them the benefit of the doubt. Nevertheless, He paused before He responded.

Paul also tells us the same, yet in another way. Paul reminds us not to be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Instead of proving that the strife in our lives has accomplished what it was designed to accomplish, we ought to prove it wrong. Instead of allowing the inner rage and anger take over and come out, spend more time and energy asking God to deliver you, and then leave room for God to handle it.

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody (including God)… leave room for God’s wrath” (Rm 12:17,19). While God is handling it, do your best to be a blessing in the mist of whatever it is. Do your best to show that what is meant for evil, God has turned it around for your good! Instead feeding into the strife, kill it with kindness. Instead of giving it a piece of your mind, keep your mind in tack and kill it with kindness. Instead of cussing them out… smile, and tell them God Bless You and Kill it with Kindness!

Are You Full... Or Still Hungry?

I’m not mad at a certain level of celebration during worship services, especially when I know that the celebration is sincere and is followed by a substantiative “Word”; a message that will change my life rather than tickle my ear. But when the celebration is more ritual or routine and the so-called message never includes the Word… what do you do? I’m curious to know what type of Sunday mornings you have had and how they have shaped your overall worship experience - might I add and stress how has it shaped your overall relationship with Christ and with your neighbor? How have your worship experiences been? Are they more emotional, or full of life-changing substance? Do you leave feeling full in the spirit, or do you leave looking for the next place to eat? By Monday are you better prepared to face the world and the demonic presence on your job, or are you already defeated before you make it to work? Do people appear to respond to God with major worship while in worship, but their lifestyles after corporate worship provides evidence that it’s only a Sunday morning thing? "We sure had church!" ...Or did we?

How have your worship experiences been? Let’s hear from you!

-Another Wilderness Perspective by John a.k.a "The Baptist"

Eliminating the Drag

"...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, let us run..."
Heb. 12:1

Nike has done it again. The mammoth sports apparel corporation known around the world by its stylish "swoosh", has taken things to another new level. Several years ago Nike introduced newly designed swim gear for the Swim Team representing the United States in the Olympics. The new gear not only made them look like fish, but it also helped the team swim win its way to several gold metals. Well, if you thought the swim gear was off-the-hook, wait until the results from the Athletics (Track & Fields) Olympic team wearing the newly designed "Nike Swift System" gear this year. This new gear, for the 2008 USA Track Team, is designed to knock off 31.5% of drag from the runners arms and legs adding .02 seconds to their time. Wow! Nike has found a way to reduce the drag by redesigning and reducing the material on the uniforms.

Although Nike is cashing in, Paul had the concept to this "swift system" years ago. "Throw off everything that hinders...", he says to the Hebrews. Paul understood the importance of a makeover. This makeover is not about fashion, grooming, or a house turned into a home. Like Nike, Paul is talking about redesigning our lives to reduce the drag slowing us down while running this race call life. Nike decreased their material and cut away certain areas allowing the runner to cut through the forces of wind against them. With this vivid image in mind of the runners in their new aerodynamic wears, what are the areas in your life that prevent you to run at your top speed.

What persons, places, or things in your life need to be cut away? What's the excess material that is slowing you down? Is it the "crew", your friends who are only your friends when you have what they need? Is it the significant other or the other significant that is consistently and purposefully headed in the wrong direction insisting that you follow or it over? Is it trying to keep up with neighbors? The Jones’ have moved and still you cannot rest until you have more tangible processions than the new neighbors? And this is just the external variables that often slow us down... I have yet to even talk about the sin. The stuff that we know we’re doing that is slowing us down.

Well, this nugget is to encourage you to let go of everything that is hindering you and the sin that has entangled you. You know exactly what needs to go… we don’t need to spell it out! Just cut it off, say good-bye, ignore the calls, avoid the locations or conversations that take your mind there, and run this race with perseverance! The Lord is calling you onward. I can see Him at the finish line waiting to say well done, my good and faithful servant… Well done!

"Dreams Deferred No More"

“Dreams Deferred No More"

Dream Deferred
What happens to a dream deferred?
Does it dry up
Like a raisin in the sun?
Or fester like a sore--
And then run?
Does it stink like rotten meat?
Or crust and sugar over--
like a syrupy sweet?
Maybe it just sags
like a heavy load.
Or does it explode?

Langston Hughes

Similar to Langston Hughes, I too have often wondered not only what happens to our dreams that are deferred, but also why have they become deferred in the first place. Many of us have aspirations and dreams that actually come to fruition at one point or another. However, there are those of us who have yet to catch a glimpse of anything that resembles a piece of what we had once hoped to see. Could it be that our dreams or our aspirations are nowhere near God’s dreams or aspirations? Or is it that the realization of these dreams never materialize because we are bound by fear, which has caused us to move no further than where we are… no further than the land of the familiar.

This reminds me of the book “The Dream Giver”, by Bruce Wilkerson. Bruce shares with us a simple yet profound story about a character and his challenges with living in the land of Familiar. Ordinary is his name. Ordinary had a desire to become more than just ordinary, but his fears had the potential of keeping him from discovering the dream that awaited him. Like Ordinary, I wonder how many of us never reach our full potential in life because we have allowed our fears to talk us out of “becoming”.

If it’s not fear of the unknown, it’s either our own limitations, or the voices of those around us that influence our decision not to move forward towards a dream. And most of the time those that have influence over us are afraid to move beyond where they are. Yet these are the ones who are persistent in making sure that we never out-do them. It is sad to say, but its true. Some folk cannot stand to see you blessed. This sounds a lot like young Joseph and how his brothers and his circumstances attempted to kill his dreams, but failed (Gen. 37-50).

Was it that young Joseph was a risk-taker; he was young and did not have much to loose while in pursuit of the dream? Or was it that Joseph understood that the dream wasn’t his? The Dream Giver, God, had revealed to Joseph His plan and purpose for his life. God spoke to Joseph through his dreams, and disclosed to him what the future held in store for him and his people. Joseph believed the dream and shared what he saw, which lead to the dream unfolding in his life.

What dream has the Dream Giver given to you that lies dormant? What are you afraid of? Is it your age, your financial situation, or is it just fear? If God has given it to you years ago and it is still in your mind and heart today regardless of your age, it means that you have not outgrown it. If you still have the dream but no finances, if its God’s dream, He will provide. And if you have fears about the dream, don’t let them stop you from pressing forward. Often times our greatest discoveries or blessings are in the directions where we would most likely never travel.

If God has given you a dream, go after it... Because its waiting to explode in your life!

Sean John, Christian Audigier, Enynce... What About the Kingdom?

I'm not mad at the latest styles and designers who are largely influenced by the multi-million dollar industry, or shall I say culture, called Hip Hop.

Some of the wears ain't bad. The t-shirts, polos, mens, and women apparel is stylish, cute, and cool. At least the jeans that stay up on your be-hinds and the women's gear that leaves much to the imagination. But for the most part, I'd pay $35 to $50 for a name brand piece done by a well known designer. If I could get it from TJ Max... I'd much rather pay less. (lol)

The only issue I have with wearing some of this stuff, even though I don't mind supporting "some" of these designers, is that I'm walking around advertising for them. If I push it a step further, I'm witnessing for them and whatever message they're communicating. I know, some of ya'll are saying you have over spiritualized it. That's cool if that's what you think. I just need more clothing that has a message I know I'm in agreement with and it looks good too. As long as it looks good, I won't have to worry about my crew looking at me funny while they're wearing the latest "whoever" and I have some cheesy "I Go to Sunday School" stuff on. I'm not saying that I'm scared to "rep" my Lord. I'm not like those who only express their allegiances to the Lord on Sunday's. If I'm going to stand bold for Him it needs to be tight! Not that I want to blend in and conform in any way, but it needs to be able to take my witness and my wardrobe to the next level. A level where believers and non-believers want to wear it. Now wouldn't that be powerful!

I could be wrong, but one thing I do know is that I need some stuff that not only expresses my personality, but it has to also represents the Kingdom of God! I know of a few Christian clothing labels and they're not that bad. I'm just praying for more! And the Lord can do more than I can ever ask, thing, or imagine... So look out! Some Rapper or R&B songstress may be in the next video rocking some wears that rep the Kingdom. And you never know... after 30 seconds of watching the video, you may hear that their lyrics and their lifestyles rep the Kingdom as well! (Romans 4:17). That may not be relevant to all as most don't watch videos anyway. Nevertheless... its still an interesting thought.

If you feel the same as I do, pray with me! Every item doesn't have to have a tag or scripture on it, but to know that the motives are pure and its worth sowing into... I'm rocking it!

How do you feel about it? Let me know what you think!

-Another Wilderness Perspective by John a.k.a "The Baptist"
Kingdom Minded Clothing

Spinning "In" Control

Within the charismatic or more progressive church you may find ministries that provide opportunities for individuals to express their adoration, worship, and praise through the medium of dance. Liturgical Dance ministries at the turn of the 21st Century have set in motion a new way to reach the masses. A ministry that provides illustrated sermons with precision and grace. All executed with the purpose to change lives. And I must admit that experiencing a spirit filled dance ministry is life changing.

Liturgical dance ministries have not only captivated numbers within the congregation, but they have also captivated me. In fact, the experience is so incredible, when done under the anointing, it is exhilarating. I shall never forget a time when a dancer went into the long spin as if they were a propeller on the helicopter turret preparing for lift-off. At the rate of speed and velocity that dancer traveled, revolution after revolution, you would have thought that they were going to spin out of control. The crowd was praising God for this major spin that was in sync with the words of the song, but I was praising God for simple fact that they did not lose it, spin out of control, and launch into a pews.

How in the world did the dancer keep this spin so tight, so perfect, and so concentrated that even in what looked to be a disaster turned into a major move? Well, I had to ask the dancer after the moment how in the world they did it. And they explained that to avoid losing control of the body while spinning like that you must find a focal point as you spin and keep your eyes on it. Find something and focus on it until the spin is over. Wow…

Can you image what would have happened with Peter if he stayed focused on Jesus when Jesus told him to walk on water (Mt 14:28-30)? In the stormy seasons of life when the waves overtake our boats, and the dark clouds have blocked out any possibility for hope, find that “One” important point to focus on. While the currents of life – bereavement, stress, overloaded work schedules, bills, crime, gas and food prices, cutbacks, downsizing, and foreclosures – fix your eyes on Jesus, who is the author and perfector of our faith (Heb 12:2)!

“LORD! Please Stop this Irresistible Urge… ...At Least for Now”

Does this prayer sound familiar? Come on… Tell the truth and shame the devil. I know I’m not the only one who has prayed this prayer. Especially when it comes to honoring God with our bodies through celibacy. Oooh… that word, “celibacy”. Yes, the struggle with “shutting it down”, “going cold-turkey”, or “retiring from the game”. This is what I would like to share as a word of encouragement. And through a discussion, we can learn from all of our experiences. So please feel free to comment.

I have observed over time that most believers try not to act like this is a problem for them. Yet, the truth of the matter is that a good number of believers have struggled with this at one point or another. Some are struggling now. And I am here to tell you that abstention from sexual relations without crying out to the Lord is not easy to do on your own. As much as we desire to please God in every area of our lives this is certainly one area that requires the strength of the Lord. (Can I get an Amen?) I know… I hear you saying to yourself “It’s hard to just stop when you’ve started”, “the curiosity and sensibility are killing you”, “your significant other is pressuring you”, or “you justify it because you are convinced that they are the ones you want to spend the rest of your life with” …at least that is what they tell you in the moment.

The moment. What do you do in the moment? One would suggest not to put yourself in the moment and you won’t have to worry about what to do while in it. Nevertheless, most of us have lost the battle at the threshold and have taken the leap through the doors without realizing the temptation has seized us. Paul tells us this in 1 Corinthians 10:13 and he says that God provides a way out. The question is how many of us are looking for it before we enter in? It is at the door that many us must realize that we have power over the urge to walk in.

The power over the urge stems from the realization that the devil is trying to destroy us while using our own desires. James writes about it in 1:14. The ultimate goal of the adversary is to corrupt the original design for this and to launch an on-going assault on the body and the mind of the believer until the day we say “I do”. Instead of praying, “God, take this away… because I’m trying to live right for you”. We need to pray “God give me the power over this thing to control it instead of it controlling me”. And might I add… Please do not pray for God to take it way. Praying it away is not always good, because you’ll be running to your pastors asking him/her how to reverse the prayer now that you’re getting married.

Praying is the beginning. And praying for power over sin will see you though. Similar to the ad campaign for the “war on drugs” during the 80’s and 90’s, pray that you can just say NO! Pray that with the authority (In the Name of Jesus) you can say NO to the devil playing you like a play station, NO to your flesh, NO to the voices saying you can’t wait any longer, NO to your peers who pressure you because of their mistakes, NO to the consequences, NO to self-guilt, NO to disappointments, NO to sin, NO to grieving the Holy Spirit, NO to missing the fullness of a relationship with Christ, and NO to missing out on what God has for you. Just Say NO!

Lord, don’t stop it because I’ll need this urge when I’m married. But while honoring God and the marital bed (Heb 13:4)… Give me the power to say NO to it right now!

"Pass the popcorn... Please"

“…you perceive my thoughts from afar…” Psalm 139:2b

Minutes before show time, the lights dim and the crowd pours in rapidly to obtain preferred seating. The place fills with excited onlookers exuding with anticipation of viewing the movie they had long waited to see. All lights are out and the movie trailers begin. Advertisements of the upcoming films and various notices prompting viewers to refrain from talking or to keep their cell phones from ringing play simultaneously. Last minute wrestling to find seating or scurrying to the restrooms prior to the start of the film lessens. Finally, the movie begins… “Can you please pass the popcorn?”

Housed in the clandestine confinements of our minds is a setting similar to this great place of entertainment. Playing across the canvas of our memories, our sub-conscience, and our conscience are thoughts and/or ideas that seldom do we realize we are not the only ones viewing them. In fact, David, the son of Jesse, received a divine revelation that God knows what we are thinking before we think it.

God literally sits in the theatres of our minds right there with us as we view those thoughts that we know we should not be thinking. Can you imagine sitting in the theatre and someone finds their preferred seating directly between you and the person you came with? Not only do they disrupt the film that you initially hoped would entertained you, but also they have a nerve to reach over and to ask, “Can you please pass the popcorn?” Well, either God is sitting right in front, behind, or on the sides of us waiting to see how long we choose to quench the Holy Spirit by entertaining stuff that needs to brought into captivity and made obedient to Christ.
(2 Cor.10:4-5)

According to James 1:14-15, most of the temptations and/or evils that we face throughout the course of a day can be avoided if we prevent our minds from becoming breeding grounds for bad thoughts. We are equipped with the Armor of God, but the Armor will fall from our bodies if we do not fasten it with the belt of Truth. The truth in the message of God’s redeeming Love keeps our minds thinking good thoughts. Moreover, it transforms our minds! Paul puts it this way, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.” (Phil. 4:8)

So remember, when you enter to the movie rooms of your mind to view thoughts and memories you should not be viewing, please be sure to rebuke it and repent… and please be sure to bring enough popcorn for God.

Copyright © 2008, Kingdom Minded Coach. All rights reserved.

Blossom Where You Are

“Let both grow together until harvest...” Matthew 13:30

Watching a small child endure their first medicated shot is undoubtedly a gut wrenching, heartfelt experience that any parent, legal guardian or family member must encounter. Despite the desire to intervene and displace the small, frightened child with you, this natural occurrence is one that the child and the parent must come to grips with. In fact, the parent is aware of the appointment, but the child has no knowledge of what will occur, yet their trust rest solely in the parent. What an interesting place to be in when the one whom you have found security has shortly terminated your protection for a worthy cause.

Can you imagine the thoughts spawned in the mind of the child as the parent has released their authoritative covering into the hands of the physician for this miniscule task? As the parent stands there the child’s face becomes a canvas of expressions painted with fear. The body interprets a language of pain, and the endless cries for mercy leave lasting impressions on the walls of the parent’s heart. Nevertheless, you and I both know that the procedure will last a few seconds, but the child is unaware neither do they understand that it is for their own good.

With this vivid portrayal of an episode that many of you reading this message may have experienced, can you image what God sees as He watches us go through some of the trials and tribulations that we endure? Similar to the child, we too cry out for mercy in search for relief or an end to the madness. Yes, we know God to be Omniscient, but the natural response to a God who knows all is why He does not stop what we go though before going through it. To some, the hallmark of their questions is “why me?” To others, the understanding is that God often allows certain circumstances to enter our lives. Moreover, I have discovered that these “God Allowed” situations enter our lives for two reasons; to bring the best out of us and to bring God the Glory.

Jesus, in His strong yet subtle way, shared with the disciples the knowledge of the secrets of the Kingdom of God as a crowd gathered intrigued by this life-changing message found in the “Parable of the Weeds.” In the explanation of this parable and its significance relating to Kingdom living, Jesus helps us to understand life as a Kingdom Citizen here on earth. Similar to the Sower’s instructions to let the weeds and wheat grow together, God allows weeds to grow in our lives without removal to show us that He uses evil for our good and as long as we’re planted in the right fields we have the power to fully develop in Him.

If you are “planted” in God and He in you, that which grows around you will not hinder your growth or deter you from your destination. Furthermore, the weeds of life, those complainers, the doubters and the negativity that grows around us, cannot stop us from becoming. When opposition arrives in an attempt to discourage you, know that God’s purpose for your life is in effect. This is only a part of the process and an opportunity for you to develop the character of Christ in the face of adversarial issues. In fact, if God is in control of your life, you have no choice but to blossom where we are. Similar to the doctor rewarding the child with a piece candy following the shot, one day both you and I will receive these words… “Well done my good and faithful servant.”

Copyright © 2008, Kingdom Minded Coach. All rights reserved.

Private Moments

“He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.” Mark 4:34


Living life as a resident alien–a Kingdom Citizen in the world, but not from this world–we often encounter moments when it is hard to stay focused. Staying focused is a hard task when life bombards us with overwhelming issues that command our undivided attention. Even though we have absorbed the preaching and teachings from Sunday to Sunday, the application becomes challenging when the rubber meets the road. At times, shrugging our shoulders is the best remedy because the matter at hand is something we cannot comprehend. Endless prayers and supplication are employed, but by that time, we are way off course trying to get back in line. “Straight and Narrow” (Mt. 7:14) is path that we must travel, but life in all that it has to offer does not make this journey easy.

In fact, many things in life warrant our full attention. If it is not fulfilling the daily roles and responsibilities that we assume on our jobs, it is fulfilling the same, if not more, at home. If it is not trying to keep up with the time and the vastness of technology, it is trying to keep up with our culture and its diversity. If it is not the constant and consistent evangelism from the world of retail attempting to lure us to scribe to the “Religion of Consumerism”, it is the constant concern of the debt we benefited from the god of Consumerism that consumes us on a daily basis. Nevertheless, throughout all of life’s distractions, God is speaking to us.

God speaks to us through the common everyday activities of life; we just have to catch Him when we can. To hear God in the everyday experiences of life requires focus. Moreover, what a better time to center you focus when you have a private moment with God. Jesus often used parables to explain the mysteries of the Kingdom, but He never left his disciples in a state of confusion. When they were alone, Jesus would then share the hidden truths to the ones who yearned for insight and revelation. We will never discover the messages God is sending during a busy, chaotic day if do not take the time to be still. It is in the private moments with Jesus that He begins to share with us the mysteries of the Kingdom. He will explain to us those moments in life we could not comprehend. He will begin to show us why He did what He did and when it was already done.

If you are looking for answers to why you are dealing with what you are dealing at this season in life. Or you are always asking “what in the world is going with my life…” Take note of what is happening around you. Observe what speaks to you and how. Then take advantage of a private moment for God to make it plain for you. For this life is filled with many parables, yet Jesus will explain everything to His disciples once He has us all alone.

Copyright © 2008, Kingdom Minded Coach. All rights reserved.

A Bunch of Leaves

“Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs.” Mark 11:13

One of the worse feelings one could ever experience is when you enter the kitchen with a major taste for something that no longer exists in the pantry, cabinets, or refrigerator. All day long, you had anticipated the satisfaction met by that special snack only to find that it was all gone. Whether it was your favorite bag of chips, cookies, or ice cream, it did not matter as long as they were where you last placed them. Sometimes you find yourself hiding them to avoid the other occupants within your residence from devouring them. Nevertheless, there were times when you reached the location and searched to find that your favorite snacks, which stimulated that craving all day, were gone. “Time to find something else…”

How disappointing it is to settle for less and displace the initial craving with something that never entered your mind in the first place. The thought of this crossed my mind as I read about Jesus and the altercation with the fig tree. When I first read this story, I felt sorry for the fig tree and thought how mean Jesus seemed to a poor defenseless tree. Yet, the more I read the more I began to hear God. Can you image how God feels after peeking in on Worship services that leave Him starving because they do not meet His needs? Then imagine God on an all out search for that special something, or someone for this matter, to fulfill His desires. However, when He finds that special someone, the one who comes to Worship week after week to Worship Him, outside of a Worship atmosphere… there is no fruit to be found.

Imagine how God feels when He sees us giving the appearance of fruit-bearing trees when our leaves mask the emptiness beyond the surface. How easy it is to blend in when other trees are around, but what happens when it is just you and God. What type of appearance do we give once our surroundings change from a Christian environment to that of the world? We give God great Praise and Worship in service, but what does Jesus find when the curtains of our private lives are drawn back? Do we look like trees with fruit while participating in service, but change between benediction and dinner? What would the outcome be if Jesus reached into our lives just because we appeared to be in full bloom? The fig tree was in full bloom, which gave the appearance of the season, but it was the wrong time to produce fruit.

The season in this story not only refers to the time as it does the state of the tree. The fig trees around Jerusalem would not produce fruit unless they were full of leaves. When Jesus approached this tree, it was in the right state to bear fruit, but it displayed full leaves at the wrong time. In other words, how disappointed God must feel when He sees us at our best in season (or shall we say in church), but finds a bunch of leaves out of season. When God reaches in the trees of our lives outside of the church, on our jobs, or at home will He find fruit or will He find a bunch of leaves?

Copyright © 2008, Kingdom Minded Coach. All rights reserved.

Fighting the Right Fight

I would be telling you a lie if I say that every marriage will be void of "fiery fellowships"...arguments, disagreements, and misunderstandings. This is a normal process in the life of a growing union. The problems arise when the two fail to realize that it is within the marital institution that God created, where the development process of the individuals does not cease. Some newly-weds either thinks once they are married they are to spend the first few months training and changing their spouses. Whereas others are convinced that once married they no longer need to be developed in the things of God. And either of these two thought processes will lead to major fights.

I will share more on the seeds that spawn from these two thoughts, but for now, I want to focus on fighting the right fight when it comes to expressing the wrong emotions towards your spouse. Yes, we will at times disagree, but things are so much better when the two can agree to disagree as they continue to move forward. However, when two disagree and then exhaust more energy trying to get the other to hear/agree with their perspective you've lost the primary battle with the one who is pleased that the two of you are now fighting the wrong fight.

Paul writes to the church at Ephesus that "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” In other words, these moments of frustration, anger, and emotional distress are not about returning an all-out offensive assault on your spouse. And no, I am not saying that you are to refer to your spouse as a demon (that’s another “Something to Ponder” – because if they are saved, it’s not an issue). What I want you to understand is that the devil seeks to destroy marriage by causing to the two to turn on each other until the marriage eventually implodes.

Once the marriage turns inward instead of fighting outward, every little thing will blow up into major problems. Fighting the right fight starts within. Getting over “self”. Being Christ-centered as opposed to self-centered, and then the fight will be easier than before. When it’s no longer about self-preservation or self-promotion (fear & pride), and now it’s about protecting what God has established in your life and the gift that He has given to you to share the rest of your life with, you will learn how to fight… You won’t learn how to win the argument, but you will learn that if you call on Jesus together, He will fight your battles. You and your spouse will spend more time shouting in the devils face than you will in each others face!

In the book "Sacred Marriage", by Gary Thomas, he talks about how marriage is not only about finding happiness, but its also about becoming holy. God uses the marital institution to develop in those who enter holy matrimony the ability to see things in life the way God sees them. The process is not easy, but it makes for a better marriage when the two realize that God is still working them. Check our the Recommended Reads to pick up this book. Its a good book to have in your spiritual library.