One thing about me is I NEVER tell people what they should believe. That is not in my nature to force my opinion and understanding of a matter on others. But anyone who knows me, knows I do love sharing things that appeal to me with anyone interested in the same things I am. Or, with anyone willing to listen. That's probably because my "love language" is quality time. So, sharing is one way I express quality time. Therefore, I share what I share on social media because it is a reflection of my personality – my “love language,” which is quality time. When I post content on social media, I never am looking for likes, shares, or whether a person agrees with me or not, or accepts what I am expressing or not. I share what I share because I love to see people better themselves, and sharing is one way I feel I can help people to grow if that is truly what they are interested in doing.

Let me add this. Quality time is more important to me than hugs, kisses, expressions of I love you, gifts, etc. I'm not saying I don't enjoy those other things because they are important. But quality time is at the core of my soul. That will always win my heart, friendship, closest, trust, respect, and loyalty, more than those other things I mentioned above. 
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At any rate, the point I want to arrive at is that we are all at different levels when it comes to understanding and even interpretation. And that's a good thing, especially if what you know and understand is beyond what I know and understand. Therefore, I can learn something from you. I'm always looking for people from all different walks of life whose knowledge, maturity, understanding, insightfulness, and wisdom are beyond my intellect or natural abilities. I yearn for these kinds of people in my life who can challenge me to think beyond my own mindset, habits, knowledge, and understanding. In fact, I am drawn to these types of people, whether young, old, in between, black, white, purple, red, or whatever.

For instance, it's not a day that goes by when my 6-year-old granddaughter pushes me in some way to become a better person because I allow myself to be corrected and taught by her. In fact, she has even corrected me scripturally one time concerning something I taught her to do. In that situation, from her perspective, I violated a principle I taught her and she immediately called me on it. Initially, I wanted to correct her because she’s 6, she was looking at it from the wrong perspective and I was trying to justify my behavior. But I caught myself and said. No, despite the fact she is 6, she was right from her perspective. She was right. So, I acknowledged and received this 6-year-old counsel. Why? 
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What's my whole point? We have too many Christians whose own personal knowledge or opinions are more valuable to them than actually growing spiritually. Therefore, they miss the value and truth behind the Scripture principle that says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another" (Proverbs 27:17).

Some of y'all prefer to operate with dull knives that are coated with only your opinions, your views, your understanding, your interpretation. Therefore, you will cut people in order to force them to see it your way. To accept your truth, your understanding, your knowledge, your interpretation. Instead of applying WHAT THE LORD SAID HERE. “… Iron sharpens iron….”

In the case of two knives, even when they both are dull. One is always sharper than the other. And when you rub those two knives together, what does science say happens? They both become sharp. Like brand new knives.

​This is what Christians are supposed to do for and with one another. SHARPEN! Sharpen one another. That's what I love so much about the group GOD is building around me. We all have different views, personalities, backgrounds, understanding, knowledge, interpretation, etc., about stuff. But we never allow our differences to divide us or be the determining factor in whether we can like, support, or can roll with each or not. Instead, we sometimes debate about our differences in a HEALTHY way. In such cases, sometimes one changes the other's mindset about a matter. Other times, we realize that we both are right because we are either looking at a situation from different perspectives. Sometimes we realized a person has a deeper understanding and knowledge of a matter. Sometimes we just don't see eye to eye concerning a topic and so it's best to leave it there and agree to disagree. But we NEVER force our views, understanding, opinions, or knowledge down the throats of one another. That’s the standard, a requirement I place on my group, my inner circle, and those that I'm close to in my family as well as friends. If we cannot do that, then we have nothing in common. And as I tell every and anyone that I sense I am drawing close to or they express they want to have a closer relationship or friendship with me and I am agreeable to that. If this cannot be the standard that we are building here, let’s go no further. Because it certainly won’t work for me.
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If the church as a whole can ever grow to the points I expressed here –  especially this point. NEVER force your view, understanding, opinion, background, and or knowledge down the throat of one another. Then the church as a whole will be in a much healthier state. Because iron sharpens iron. IJS

My music career has completely transformed over the years. I have to admit, I am completely pleased with the level of success I have experienced.

I have built a pretty decent music catalog. I have seen my music grow from responding to a dare from one of the artists I was managing at the time. To see my music, explode on an international platform. The last time we kept track, our music had been released on the radio, in films, and had played in more than 21 countries such as Argentina, Canada, Germany, Italy, London, Japan, Mexico, Peru, United States, etc.

Although I love music and I did find a level of release and enjoyment in writing music. I never saw it as a career path for me. I did not truly see the music industry as a good fit for me. I certainly did not imagine the level of success for myself as I have experienced. At one time I had major record labels like Def Jam Recordings and Virgin Records pursuing me to submit some of my music to their labels. He does not know that I know this, but even 50 Cent took a serious look at my music when Ace Reign, Kruixfy, and Lacy B recorded my rap/R&B track – Love Conspiracy. Okay, yea, that track is popping. It really expanded my music to many different international markets. And I had a lot to get off of my chest with that one. I’m just saying. 
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As I said before, my problem was, that I could not see myself building a career in the music industry. Well, not as of yet.

Despite my reluctance, for years, I continue to write songs for other artists in the Country, Hip Hop Rap, and R&B genres. And I was starting to expand out into other categories. Plus, I was making some money off of my singles. And to this day, I am still collecting some royalties.

But for a long time, I really did not know what I wanted to do with this newly discovered gift I had. But everything changed in 2014. About two years after Felicia and I met. Somehow, Felicia discovered that I wrote music and had some tracks out there that were having some success. She started asking me a lot of questions about it and I really was trying to avoid the conversation. It was not that I was trying to keep that part of my life a secret. I just did not take my songwriting career seriously despite my level of success. To me, it was a hobble. A hustle. A way to bring in a little extra cash. I just did not see the true value of my writing ability or any value of establishing a real songwriting career.

But then Felicia did something I completely was not prepared for. She pulled out a suitcase of songs she had written since the early part of her childhood. I was completely overwhelmed by the number of songs she had written. So, I pulled a few out and skim-read a few lines of several songs. THEY WERE REALLY GOOD. I MEAN REALLY GOOD. But I wasn’t sure how each song I pulled out sounded. So, I pulled out a song and asked her, “sing this.” And when she sang it, I was flabbergasted. So, I pulled out another and another and another. And each time she sang each song, I could not believe what I was hearing. They were so perfectly written and beautiful and emotionally moving. And I couldn’t believe these songs were just sitting in her dirty old suitcase. There was no way I could continue to let these well-written songs sit in this suitcase and nothing is done with them. 

​And that was my turning point. The point when I start to look at a music career differently. I started to explore the possibilities. But initially, Felicia and I were heading in the wrong direction – mostly my fault. (Compare to Matthew 18:19-20; Amos 3:3; Colossians 3:7; 1 Corinthians 1:10). This created a lot of clashes and friction between what I wanted to write and what I was comfortable writing about and what Felicia desired to write about. 

The day finally came when we reenacted the scenes from the movie, The Clash Of The Titans as it related to our preferred styles of writing music. All I knew at the time was Hip Hop/Rap, Country, and R&B. But more than 98 percent of Felicia’s suitcase full of music was Gospel, Worship, and Christian style of music. Something, I knew nothing about. At the time, I really was not exposed to any Christian, Gospel, or Worship music that she was familiar with. All I was acquainted with was that old Gospel hymn music with that old organ sound that I hated. So, I had not listened to any Gospel songs since my childhood, and that was only when I was in Church.

So, before Felicia and I ever get started good, it appeared our music ambitions were not going anywhere. But she did agree to write one Country song with me called No Other Love.

We produced it with Nashville Song Services and that track did really well as well. We both won quite of few songwriting competitions with that track. And I accomplished at the time what I wanted to achieve with Felicia. I wanted to build her confidence and exposed her to other options than what she had written in the past.

But even with the success of that track, Felicia lost interest, which left me snatching my head. But then she showed me an album of songs that she had already written called Total Access. 
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Out of all the songs I had seen in her suitcase, I did not hear any of these tracks. So, I asked her to sing them. And once again I was dumbfounded and amazed by how really good all these songs were. I really like every one of them. And I realized she had given much thought to her lyrics, the production of her lyrics and the music composition, and the recording of each one of her tracks. And at that time, I had not. So, this album of hers, began my journey of self-examining myself from a musical standpoint and what did I really want to do if I wanted to help get Felicia’s music out there? What was I willing to give up as well as contribute? It took some time, but this journey with Felicia really helped to transform me and changed my mind set and outlook toward music. How I saw it. What do I want to write about? And how do I want my music to be portrayed by others? 

But my real change did not take place until about 8 years ago – in late 2014. I was driving to work and I really hated my job and my crazy boss. I really did not want to go there. I just wanted to turn around and go home or find something different to do. Plus, I had not been too long out of a homosexual relationship. So, my hormones were off the chain as well. So, I was physically and emotionally unstable and really frustrated with my job.

At the time, all I could say, as I was pleading with God – attempting to pray for help, was GOD. GOD! GOD!! As tears started to stream down my face, I heard myself sing. 
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As I was driving, I immediately grabbed a pen and a piece of paper. And right there, as I was driving to work, I wrote my first Gospel/Christian song called I Need You. I wrote the entire song right there in my car. Now, of course, in this post. I am purposely leaving some of the lines and words out of the track but….

It was then that I knew that it wasn’t Felicia that needed to be more open. But it was me. I needed to narrow down my focus and make some different decisions. If I was going to do this music thing, I need to pick a specific genre and stick with it. That was the only way I really was going to create my own brand/style and get really good at this art of writing music. But I also knew, Felicia was not going to be interested in writing any other genre but Gospel and or Christian music. So, either I need to move in the same direction she was heading. Or, just put on the brakes and give this up right now, before I waste my time and hers.

So, I prayed about it and 3 more songs came out of my belly. I even had one dream where I was in heaven and I heard an entire song that I actually wrote down later in the middle of the night called Glorious LIGHT. Since then, I have written enough Gospel/Christian tracks to produce at least 3 albums if not more. I finally knew what GOD was calling me to do with my songwriting abilities. 
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And today, since 2020, I have completely committed myself to writing music for the LORD ONLY. I am more confident in my songwriting abilities and know that I know that I am called to this along with many other giftings and talents, and natural abilities the LORD has anointed and gifted me with.

The only missing piece, that is in Felicia and my future is the right music producer and recording artists to record and produce our music. Over the years, we have been matched up with some very talented and professional recording artists and two great and talented music producers. But to me, SOMETHING was always off – it wasn’t JUST RIGHT. Not the perfect fit I know GOD wanted for us.

Then Felicia and I realized three things. 
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​GOD IS CERTAINLY GOOD, WISE, AND PATIENT. And HE knows how to transform the heart and minds of people and get you heading in the right direction. (Compare to 2 Corinthians 5:17).

REMAINING DISCIPLINE: BEAT MY FLESH TO SUBMISSION

In First Corinthians chapter 9, in the New King James Version of the Bible, there are 3 main subtitles listed there. A Pattern of Self-Denial, Serving All Men and Striving For a Crown. Now, my goal for this post is to work my way to my main point, which is 1 Corinthians chapter 9, verse 27. But let’s ease into it today. So, open your mind, heart, and Spirit to what the LORD THY GOD wants to speak to your heart today. So, let’s pray. 

In the first 12 verses of 1 Corinthians chapter 9, the Apostle Paul incites his listeners by asking them a series of questions. We do not have time to consider them all but let’s look at a few together. Paul asks

These questions and others seemed like mindless questions. But they certainly are not. Here, Paul is addressing some serious scriptural offenses that were occurring in the Church. Many of which still exist in our churches today. 

Some in the Corinthians congression of GOD were callous toward Paul over trivial matters. Enough so that some created much confusion, arguments, needles debates, and practiced fault-finding tactics not only to hinder Paul’s mission for Christ but also to hinder the gospel of Christ from being preached (1 Corinthians 9:12).

As an appointed apostle of Christ, Paul could not simply ignore such great notorious towards the truth or the gospel. He had to address and confront these slanderous behaviors and attitudes head-on. Paul addressed these individuals nitpicking behaviors by asserting his apostolical mission and authority. He logically subsists and defends his ministry by referencing his constitutional right by means of Christ and the Mosaical law. He also pointed out the fact that he as an apostle of Christ had denied his self-interest and even comforts for the sake of the gospel.

Despite Paul’s efforts to tackle such issues in the Body of Christ, as an apostle, he did not have an easy task. He was constantly met with opposition and often combated with discouragement and reproach by superficial Christians, false brethren, and immature saints. Paul’s character and reputation were always placed under a microscope and under attack not only from those outside of the church but even from within. A sad reality that still exists today.

And yet Paul never allowed these insinuated behaviors, attitudes, or actions, whether done in public or in secret, to prevent him from speaking and sharing the full gospel in a manner of how GOD was leading him as an apostle for Christ. Paul was not going to let a few self-righteous, prideful, self-willed men or women discredit, disgrace, or criminalize the Good News of the gospel, his reputation, or the works he was doing for Christ. 
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Paul's focus in this Greek culture was to ‘preach the gospel’ no matter who took offense or how wrongly individuals interpret his intentions (1 Corinthians 9:16). To achieve this in an affectionally and effective manner, met that Paul had to antagonize (challenge, oppose, provoke, irritate, upset) and even be combative towards those who were trying to make a mockery over the gospel and his apostleship.

Paul not only had to address problems like idolatry, and rejection of Judeo doctrines like the trinity and the resurrection. But he also had to tackle issues in the Corinthians congression dealing with marriage and divorce, spiritual gifts, ethical differences, the role of men and women, immaturity, church discipline, sectarianism, etc. In fact, Paul declared at 1 Corinthians chapter 9, verse 16. “Yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel.”
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The Greek word for ‘woe’ in verse 16 is ouai (G3759) – primary for expressing grief or denunciation. Here Paul is pointing out to his listeners that he preaches the gospel with all convictions and truth not out of personal ambition or because it was a matter of choice. He preached because HE WAS CALLED. CALLED BY CHRIST TO BE AN APOSTLE FOR CHRIST. Therefore, it was and is something he must do. Paul felt compelled to resolve doctrine and practical problems within the local church, not for his own namesake or based on his own self-righteous biases or boasting. He wanted to see the church of GOD grow and prosper both on an individual level and as a congregation as a whole. His goal was not self-motivated. Or led by some false personal pretense (sham, deceit, imagination, hoax). Paul clearly understood that the church is the temple of GOD. Therefore, the SPIRIT OF THE LORD dwelt in the corporate body, which includes all members. Hence, his mission was not to tear down the Body of Christ but to build it up. But in doing so, Paul could not leave or neglect to address the existing issues, whether public or in secret, that exist in Corinth.

Part of building up the Body of Christ and individual members requires tearing down strongholds, wrongful behaviors, and attitudes, slanderous and idle talk, confronting backbiting, or all sorts of habits and behaviors that existed in the Greek culture that was influencing GOD’s congregation. (Compare to 2 Corinthians 10:4, Proverbs 27:17, Jeremiah 1:10).

To Paul, it did not matter if he had support from the local congregation or not. It was not primarily about them (the congregation of GOD). It was about preaching the full truth of the gospel, fulfilling the call Christ had placed on his life, acknowledging that he had been entrusted by GOD with this stewardship, and knowing, regardless of how the people responded to him or his message – he still is called by Christ; and as a result, of his faithfulness, he would obtain his reward in due season. Praise Jah!

Paul had no interest in abusing his authority in the gospel nor the gospel itself, as some were doing during this ministry (and some are still practicing this very day). Many doing Paul’s time were conducting themselves for the gospel as religious entrepreneurs. They preached the gospel for selfish gain, clout, and fame – charging for the message, a WORD, or prophetic utterance. Paul was a willing vessel that sacrifice himself, his ambition, his status, his fame, clout, and lot in life for the cause of Christ. What about you?
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Okay, let’s skip a few verses and drop down to the heart of our discussion at 1 Corinthians 9:27. 

Paul did not want his body, his self-will, or ambition to hinder his forward progress in Christ. Therefore, he did not allow his body to lord over himself. He was a servant, a slave to and for Christ. Consequently, he had to deny himself to not yield to his fleshly inclination. Be that it may be lust, appetites, pampering himself, etc.

Paul did not possess an unhealthy view of denial either as some who thought they could pay for their sins through such practices as self-tortures. Refusing to acknowledge that Christ had already paid it all – the penalty for our sins at the Cross.

We too must not forfeit our promise of eternity with Christ by pursuing things that we should not, by allowing our flesh to dominate over us, and by letting our misplaced (inappropriate, erroneous, illogical, improper, misdirected) thoughts, and mindsets hinder the works of Christ through others like Paul. 
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So what can we walk away with from this verse? In the previous verses, Paul says this. 

Here Paul compares himself (as well as us) to an athlete who disciplines himself to win the prize. In order to win, an athlete must make necessary sacrifices in the way he or she eats, works out, manages his or her body, attitude – especially towards others, and even controls his mouth – the way he or she speaks about himself and others. An athlete workout not for the sake of just working out but for and with purpose. He or she understands that his body, his mind, and his thoughts, including his mouth, were used to do or say whatever it wants. But there is a bigger picture Paul had learned that we need to consider, especially after submitting to Christ. 

Being disqualified.

If he failed to get a master over these things – his flesh, his thoughts, his mindset, his attitude, especially towards others, his mouth. That even he can become disqualified not by men but by Christ. He could lose out on eternal life and pleasing the One he has submitted himself to which is Christ. Therefore, he beats his flesh into submission – to do only all the things GOD had called him to do and say for the sake of the gospel, for Christ, for the Body of Christ, and its members. 

​SHALOM

If you look up the word transfiguration in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it defines it like this.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary even acknowledges it as a Christian feast that commemorates the transfiguration of Christ on a mountaintop in the presence of three disciples. (Merriam-Webster, Inc. 2022).
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Now, it is common practice for those who produce dictionaries in the book industry to follow an absorbing process in deciding which words to include in their new edition. For example, editors at Merriam-Webster have to determine the following before including a new word in their dictionary. 

The final test a word must pass before an editor decides to include it in the dictionary is that it must have enough proven evidence to show that it is widely used in our society. However, the word being considered cannot come from a single source. Otherwise, it is rejected from entry in the general dictionary. Of course, there are a few other processes not listed here. But you all get the point.

So, what does all this have to do with the transfiguration? Well, let’s take a walk back in time and you will find out. 

We can read about the transfiguration of Christ at Matthew chapter 17, verses 1 through 13. Verse 2 says,

The Blue Letter Bible reverse Greek interlinear defines the phrase, “was transfigured” this way.

Now, I do not know about you but when I read this explanation in comparison to the modern definition provided by Merriam-Webster Dictionary, to me, this conveys a different school of thought, a different feel. So, let’s go a little deeper to see what we can obtain. 

I reviewed a few encyclopedia dictionaries to get a little more understanding and clarity on this supernatural event. But let’s review one of them together – the International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia. This is how it described this occurrence.

This voice was so powerful and overwhelming that all 3 men immediately prostrated themselves and waited in silence. But when they finally got the strength to look upward, only Jesus stood before them. What an awe-inspiring and unexplainable experience this was for these 3 men.

Now, we can attempt to break down the word transfiguration and its many parts and variations to figure out how our society is currently using this text. And that’s all good. Such a process can be beneficial and has its place. But what I think is most important for us to understand is the impact this encounter had on Jesus’ disciples and how this event, this supernatural phenomenon should have on us today. 
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When people speak of the transfiguration, even in the church, we refer to it in the most general way. As if it is or was a normal occurrence. We do not give it the reverence and holy accolades it deserves.

So, let’s think about this. Here in this account, we only know of one other occasion where GOD spoke such blessing words about Jesus HIS Son – “This is MY beloved Son.” – whom HE was well pleased with. Twice, GOD was confirming Jesus as HIS choice, HIS chosen vessel to do HIS will and bidding for HIS Kingdom and for the sake of humanity.

Through such gracious words, GOD was clearly indicating HIS favor upon this man of GOD that we know as Christ.

So, now, think about the transfiguration for a moment. And just imagine the impact it had on Jesus, despite knowing what He will have to endure and encounter in the near future for the sake of all of mankind. This event definitely gave Jesus the boldness, joy, new confidence, and even the endurance He will need to endure the shame and torture he was about to undergo for each one of us. This event was extremely significant in the spiritual realm and certainly in human history. It is not an event we can take lightly or gloss over.

Now consider the influence this experience had on Jesus’ disciples who were present. This moment had to be faith-building for them. If any of them were internally questioning whether Jesus was heaven-sent or whether He was the Messiah. This event would have cleared all of that up for sure. It would have radicated any doubts. Especially considering what all of them were about to be exposed to and experienced firsthand. For Jesus’ disciples, their days were about to get really dark. Persecution was about to get heavy and thick for them. Life as they once knew it was about to change and it was not going to be the same. A dense dark cloud was about to hover over the land and the heads of GOD’s people. But this event of the transfiguration would be forever imprinted in the minds of these 3 disciples who will play a pivotal role in the survival of the Church and its members during the coming dark church days. This event will strengthen them and help them to stay in the place, in an hour when many will abandon not only their faith but also Christ, their Savior and Deliver.
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Seeing the transfiguration figures of both Moses and Elijah was confirmation to Jesus’ 3 disciples that there is life on the other side. There is immortality for mankind – for those who are able to obtain it. No longer could they or any of us doubt the holy authority and power that rests on Christ. He truly is the Son of GOD. For these 3 men have seen as witnesses, an aspect of the unseen world through this unnatural event. (Compare to 2 Corinthians 13:1). Between Jesus, Moses, and Elijah – Peter, John, and James were able to see the spirit meeting with the spirit in their heavenly bodies. GLORY TO GOD! These men got to see a glance of what heavenly bodies look like in heaven. 

One word would best describe the point of this subtitle - significance to us today. “Everlasting life”. Or even life after death. Okay, that was two words but you get the point. THERE IS LIFE AFTER THIS LIFE WE ARE CURRENTLY LIVING. The transfiguration is a powerful witness to this. If we continue to gloss over events like this in our human history – not only do we miss the value of such events. But it can even cost us missing out pn so much more.
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Every man, woman, and child must learn their Bible history. And I am not talking about that man-made makeup, tainted history we have been taught in our schools and even by our parents. (Compare to Hosea 4:6). We must know our history that was established and written by our Creator. (Compare to Genesis 1:1). It is then and only then, we will be able to obtain TRUTH (John 17:17).

This is the WORD OF THE LORD

The vitamins and herbs listed below are the perfect combination for anything viral. You need to take the following.

• 5 Dandelions
• 4 Vitamin Cs
• 1 Zinc

Then listen to GOD for how long you need to take them - the duration.

This is post is based on the Scripture prinicple for at Deuteronomy 7:15.

​According to Acts chapter 7, verse 11, famine and other troubles occurred that directly affected Jacob’s (Israel) household. The problem was so severe that there was no sustenance anywhere. Despite the severity of the famine, so long as Jacob and his family were in good standing with God and in the place where God called them to be, God provided for them abundantly (Acts 7:12). So, what does Jacob’s circumstance reveal to us? 
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​Too often, we think, it is our duty to provide for our families and meet their daily needs. Although, in general, this is true. We are responsible for providing for our families. For the Scriptures say at 2 Thessalonians 3:10
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​Also, the Scriptures strongly talk against being lazy. For example, at Matthew chapter 25, verses 15, 18 through 19, and 24 through 30 says
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​So, the Bible talks against laziness, but working to the fullest and effectively and properly using your abilities, gifts, and talents. 
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Similarly, this is no different for us today. When we consider Jacob and his family’s situation mentioned at Acts chapter 7, verses 11 and 12. Things will come up that are beyond our control. When they do, it is not necessarily our job to fix them. Well, it is, but it isn’t. Let me explain so you all don’t think I’m being double-minded. (Compare to James 1:8).

Our part or role when difficulty comes up is to be in the place or go to the place God has called or expects us to be. When we are where God NEEDS US, then we are readily available for God to use us as He NEED for His purpose and Kingdom Work. How He chooses to use us (use our talents, gifts, and abilities), we will benefit directly from the Work produced. I hope that makes sense.
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In the case of Jacob and his family. During the pre-famine, they all were living in Hebron, the place God had them during that time. Because they were in the place God had and needed them to be, God could sustain and meet their needs. But when the famine hit, the place in which they were, God could no longer sustain them there. The Scriptures reads at verse 11 of Acts chapter 7

Therefore, the place they were, God could and would not any longer provide for them there. So, what did that mean for them?

It meant that Jacob and his family would NOW need to inquire of God to UNDERSTAND what was God going to do NOW AND NEXT. How did the “shift in what God was doing” influence Jacob and his household – His new instruction, guidance, and direction? What God required them to do differently?
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Jacob had to understand and do whatever God was requiring of him and his family, in that moment, if he wanted to continue to receive God’s blessings, along with new revelations and new bread and wine. Jacob had to shift, move, do something different than he did before when he was in Hebron. Because God was moving Jacob to a new region. And therefore, Jacob had to operate and trust God as Jacob moved and managed his lifestyle differently under God’s covering. 
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So, ask yourself. Are you willing to move, shift, change direction, and receive new guidance and revelation? To do everything differently when you know God is doing things in a different way? Or, are we that set and suck in our ways?

The danger in such a mindset is. When God is moving and heading in a different direction, we refuse to move and head in the direction God is going. As a result, God can no longer provide and meet our needs. We end up in the same predicament as the first Adam.
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Remember that? The incident in the Garden? Where God had provided Adam and Eve EVERYTHING they needed and they lacked nothing? In fact, the Scriptures said at verse 25 of Genesis chapter 1. 
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EVERYTHING was good and ready to meet ALL the needs of the first human pair – Adam and Eve. They had everything they need.

The point I want you to get is that God did or provided all of the hard work that was required to produce His creative works in the beginning. Now, Adam had his work to do in this process. He had his part. But his part was truly much easily because God had already done all the hard work that was required to make everything function and work as it should.

God had provided all the hard parts of what Adam needed to sustain himself and his family, in order to be happy and live a thriving, successful, and full lifestyle. Adam was in the right place to receive the provisions God had for him. And all Adam had to do was follow God’s instructions and do everything God gave Adam to do.
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But the moment Adam disobeyed God and decided to do EVERYTHING in his way. The moment he decided to get from under and out of the place God arranged for Adam, God could no longer provide for Adam in the way God had done before. Take this point. God said to Adam shortly after Adam decided to do things his way.
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Because of Adam’s disobedience and getting out of the place God had provided for him. Now, he would have to work in a way God never intended Adam to work. Work will now become

​You see, no matter how hard Adam worked – it will never be enough. My brothers, do you not feel like that? That no matter what you do or how you do it, it is never enough? You feel unfulfilled. Life is hard and dissatisfying. Like you cannot provide the provisions your family needs. This is because your land, your work, and everything you try to produce is a curse because of YOUR FATHER’S (Adam) sin. 
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You have to understand this! No matter what Adam did, he will never be able to meet or sustain his family because He was out from the place, God told Adam to be. In other way, Adam disobeyed and rejected God’s plan for Adam and his life. He was disobedient! And therefore, God could NO LONGER SUSTAIN Adam and his wife, the way God provided for them before. Adam missed out on ALL of God’s future promises and blessings because he was disobedient; wanted and did things Adam’s way. And therefore, Adam was cursed. BUT GOD!! God did not leave things that way. He provided for Adam another way that eventually broke the curse for him and YOU. Unfortunately, we don’t have the time today to address how God broke that curse.
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Just know and understand. Because Adam failed to be obedient – to do as God was showing and instructing him. Because Adam had gotten out of his place of provision – GOD COULD NOT PROVIDE. God can only provide for Adam or you, IF YOU ARE IN THE PLACE, God has called you to receive your blessings [(provision(s)]. 
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​This is not different from you. God will provide. But if and only if you stay or go to the place where you are supposed to receive or will receive God’s provisions. Like Jacob, when he realized that God was no longer providing for him and his family in Hebron. Jacob did not sit on his loins and did nothing – ignored God’s new instruction and direction. Because now Jacob realized, he had to uproot 
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​He had to moved from the place he was receiving God’s provisions for him (the old wineskin). NOW, Jacob had to move to Egypt in order to continue to be blessed by God and for God to continue to provide for him and his household (the new wineskin).
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The purpose of the Book of Acts. It tells us what the RISEN Lord (Jesus Christ) continues to do and teaches through HOLY SPIRIT. That's key. 
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And not through Christ. And yet, Holy Spirit is either kicked out, ignored (not acknowledged), or not used by many churches, ministries, and church leaders today. 🤔
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Never mind what Jesus himself said at Acts chapter 1, verses 2 and 8. 
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You see in the book of Acts; the Spirit of the LORD was coming (Acts chapter 2). BUT! TODAY, the Spirit of the LORD – HOLY SPIRIT is here!! Already here.
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Jesus expected big things for his CHURCH. They were assigned to do big things in their ASSIGNED territories. Hence, why he said to his disciples’ days before going to the Cross. 
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Well, what things have Christ been doing? 

​He not only fed the needy. But filled them on the substance of the Word of God. Jesus was not doing that FAKE STUFF that we see today. He was and is the real deal. And he expects no less from his church today. Hence, he continues to say in that same verse of John 14:12.

The Webster Merriam defines the phrase “in fact” this way.

God wasn’t playing with this thing. He expected much from His church, His body. The Church of God is supposed to be a living organism and not the dead present of God’s glory as we know it to be today. Yes, from God’s perspective – His church, His leaders are dead and not alive.

So, let me get back to my point. I get so easily sidetracked when speaking of God, especially His glorious glory - His Spirit.
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So, let us read that latter part of John 14:12 again. 

​He explains it very elaborately and clearly to his disciples at John chapter 16, verse 7. 
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There you have it. Jesus made it clear to his disciples here on the earth. They (us – God’s people, God’s church) were to work along and with the Spirit of the LORD – Holy Spirit. Jesus had to leave this earthy realm and return to his Father. And in his replacement, he was sending back the best substitute – the Spirit of the LORD – Holy Spirit.
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And this is what the book of Acts is about – outlined in great detail for us. The book of Acts shows us (Jesus’ disciples) how to live under the power of Holy Spirit. (Compare to Acts 2:42; Acts 4:32-35).
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If your church or ministry is not about ushing in the Spirit of the LORD – God’s Spirit – Holy Spirit. THEN YOU DO NOT HAVE A CHURCH OR A MINISTRY. What you have is a gathering hall. A place of followers for socializing. A party. I'M JUST SAYING.

I look forward to exploring the book of Acts these next few weeks to see what all God has to share, show, and teach me about Holy Spirit – how to govern myself and my ministry by His Spirit; that is Holy Spirit. 

Every year, Hannah and all of God’s people go down to Shiloh, where the tabernacle of the LORD rest, to participate in the annual Passover feast. On one occasion, Hannah, the wife of Elkanah, journeyed to Shiloh and positioned herself in front of the tabernacle to pray. As she prayed, she did in an inaudible voice (in her heart but she did not move her lips) (1 Samuel 2:13).
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As she was supplicating the LORD there, the High Priest Eli was observing her behavior. To him, Hannah appeared to be drunk, for she seemed to be acting in a disorderly manner to Eli. So, Eli approached Hannah and chastised her for her conduct. But Eli misunderstood Hannah’s behavior and mistaken her to be drunk when she was not. When Hannah realized Eli’s error, she explained what she was doing and the reason behind her awkward behavior. Once Eli realized his error concerning Hannah, he immediately apologized and then says this to her.

Let’s come back to this point in a minute and go back a few verses in First Samuel chapter 1.
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Starting with verse 10, we see Hannah praying to God about her hopeless situation. She said to God in verses 10 and 11
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Hannah was very specific to God about her prayer request and how her years of sterility have negatively affected not only her health but her emotional state. Emotionally, Hannah described to God how her inability to get pregnant made her feel. She said she was full of bitterness and her soul was sorrowful. That she was so outdone by her circumstance that as she prayed to God about it, she wept in anguish (1 Samuel 1:10). This brings us back to verse 17, when Eli said to her, “go in peace….”

According to the Strong’s Concordance, “peace” (#7965) or shalom in verse 17 of First Samuel chapter 1 carries several different meanings. The definitions that are fitting for this verse are completeness, wholeness, health, soundness, perfectness, fullness, and the absence of agitation or discord. Peace (shalom) is taken from the root word shalam which means to be complete, perfect, or full.

When Hannah was pouring out her soul before the LORD concerning her matter in front of the tabernacle, she was saying to God – I am not complete because I am without a male offspring. I am not perfect because my body is not producing as God has designed women’s bodies to do so. That she was not full because she was lacking the one thing her heart truly desire and that was a male offspring that she could call hers.

She wanted God to intercede in her imperfect situation and make it perfect so that her womb was able to produce a child. She needed God’s Spirit to invade her body and give it life – good health so that her female organs would receive the gift of life that God provides every woman the ability to do. She needed God to be God in her situation and changed it so that she can become pregnant by her husband and not just produce any child. But specifically, have a male child who can serve God all the days of his life in a specific role. Hannah wanted God to provide her very specific outcome concerning a newborn that will directly impact his entire life span. NOW THAT WAS BOLD!
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Hannah wrestled with God and made her claims and declarations before Him. But like Jacob (Israel) did Hannah won (prevailed) in her wrestling match with God?
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Continuing where we left off at verse 17, Eli said to Hannah, “go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition which you asked Him.”

Now, if we read these few verses as it is in 1 Samuel chapter 1, verses 12 through 17. It appeared Hannah did not provide Eli with the full extent of her story. She seemed to only tell Eli that she was sorrowful in spirit and therefore she was supplicating the LORD in heart to receive an answer (a resolution) from the LORD. Despite Eli’s limited knowledge concerning Hannah’s root problem in her situation, Eli used his authority and deific power that was granted to him by God to divinely change Hannah’s circumstances. Therefore, he was able to say to Hannah in verse 17, “go in peace” or go in wholeness (shalom). Or go in good health (shalom). Or go in completeness for God will grant you what your heart most desired. (Compare to Psalm 37:3-4).
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There are two things we need to understand here. 
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Let’s close this out. There is so much I can say about Hannah’s story. But I will end with this.

After Eli blessed Hannah’s prayer request in verse 18, she agreed with the words Eli spoke in verse 17 by saying. “… Let your maidservant, find favor in your sight.” Notice that Hannah not only verbally agreed with Eli’s prayer concerning her. But she understood that she had to be in good standing with her Creator to benefit from Eli’s petition to God.

Again, she said, “… let your maidservant find favor….” The word favor means grace, which is the Hebrew word Hēn (H2579). Zechariah 12:10 explains the word grace or favor this way. “And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the spirit of grace and supplication….”

According to the Strong’s Concordance, grace (#2580) (or favor in this case) derives from the root word chanan which means “to act graciously or mercifully towards someone; to be compassionate; and to be favorably inclined.”

So, in the case of Hannah. Through the High Priest Eli, God was able to show Hannah favor or grace or to act mercifully towards her to grant or answer her prayer, which was to be able to get pregnant and to give birth to a healthy baby boy.
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Did God fulfill everything Hannah asked for in her state of affliction? Well, let’s check off every item she listed in her prayer to see if God did what she asked.

First, in verse 11 of 1 Samuel chapter 1, Hannah asked God to remember and not forget her. Secondly, in that same verse, she told God how He can remember her by blessing her with the ability to get pregnant with a male offspring. And then, when she conceived, he would be (1) born as a Nazarite, and (2) he would be willing to serve God all of his days. Hannah knew exactly what she wanted and she clearly expressed it to God through prayerful complaints and grievances.
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So, did God fulfilled her request? Did God remember and not forget her struggle with barrenness for years? Yes, He did. God did remember and did not forget Hannah. How do we know this?
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​Hannah wrestled with God and won. She prevailed through persistent prayer. 
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To read part I of this sermon series, visit my blog at https://www.deaidrenewby.com/encouraging-scripture/persistence-in-prayer-wrestling-with-god. 

When we think about wrestling, we often think about such activities as the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). Or friends horse playing around to outdo one another. Rarely do we give consideration or allude to wrestling concerning our emotions. Or even us as an individual, wrestling with God.
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The mere thought of getting into a battle or a wrestling match with God is absurd. Nevertheless, this is exactly what some of us need to do. Let me first explain where I am going with this by sharing a Biblical account and then try to tie that back in with my main point about persisting in prayer. 
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When we read Genesis chapter 32, verses 22 and 32, we see a lot of important events taking place with Jacob. Let’s look at these verses and then get into our discussion.
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Genesis 32:22-32 reads
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We see in verse 24 that Jacob engaged in a wrestling match with a man (v.24). During the battle, this man touched Jacob’s hip socket and it caused Jacob’s socket to temporarily dislocate itself (v.25). And yet, Jacob still refused to let him go. Why? Because Jacob wanted this man to bless him (v.26). So in v.28, finally, after they have wrestled all night. Just before daybreak, the man asked Jacob what is his name. It was at this point that Jacob’s name was changed from Jacob to Israel – because Israel (Jacob) fought or struggled against God, and won (prevailed) (v.28).
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Imagine that! A mere man won a battle, a struggle against God’s authorized representative. Resulting in the man blessing Israel (v.29). And from that very day, Israel walked with a limp because the angel had dislocated Israel’s hip socket during their struggle (vv.31-32). 
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Israel's former name Jacob [H3290 (Ya’ăqōb)] meant “heel holder” or “supplanter”. Time will not permit here to explain this part of Israel’s name. But we need to understand when God changed Israel’s name from Jacob to Israel, which means “Prince of God”, it was a very significant strategic move on God’s part concerning Jacob and his future.

Also, we need to keep in mind the name change was not so that Jacob would forget or abandon his former name for the new name that God consecrated him with. Jacob was not to forget who he was or where he came from that was represented by his former name.

Jacob’s old name denoted a dishonorable part of his former lifestyle. Therefore, the new name God gave Jacob through His angel was a symbolic gesture associated with Israel's change of heart, mind, and spiritual condition.  It represented the new man he had become – a man who is now sanctified and devout in character to God and the things of God.
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I personally can relate to the significance of such a dramatic change on God’s part to take concerning those He has called for special assignments. For in November 2019, He too changed my legal name to establish a significant change and turning point in my life similar to Israel. 

Just as my birth name carries a unique distinction and difference from any other common name. So too, the new name that was given to me by God. In my 52 years of life, I have only encountered 1 person with the same spelling as my first name. But no one pronounces their first name the same as mine anywhere on this earth. No one. Interestingly, there is a similar distinction with the name God has given me in the Spirit to my legal first name. I don’t know why this is the case. I don’t even know what the name God has given me actually means. But like any other name in the Hebrew culture – one’s name carries a lot of weight. It also reflects the significant meaning surrounding one’s life, their life path, and even describes their relationship with God.
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Here's another interesting fact between Jacob’s name change by God and mine that are similar. We both had to wrestle with God. Now my wrestling with God back between 2018 and 2019 compared to Jacob’s was for different reasonings and served a different purpose. But the outcome was the same. WE BOTH PREVAILED. Again, imagine that! Wrestling with God and winning. Jacob did. And I did. Therefore, so can you. And if you have not wrestled with God – you need to. 
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Let’s not overlook the fact that this man Jacob was wrestling with not just any man, but an angel of the LORD. After Jacob, in his travels, helped his wives and his family safely cross a river, Jacob felt a need to get away privately to commune with God to express his concerns and fears to the LORD in prayer. It was during Jacob’s intense prayer time that he encountered the angel of the LORD and engaged in this wrestling match with God’s angelic officer. This angel and Jacob engaged in a hand to hand combat. It was Jacob’s strength, power, and wit against this spiritual creature. During this battle with this strong angel, Jacob pleads for one thing. What was that? For this angel to bless him.

Jacob was carrying a lot of responsibilities up to this point in his life and they all were weighing on him. So much so that he felt it was worth confronting and battling with God to help bring about a peaceful resolution to his emotional stress and anxieties. He needed to know that God would bless him through it all. To ensure this blessing, Jacob was willing to fight a fight that he knew under normal circumstances he could not win. Nevertheless, he was persistent and endured to ensure his victory.

Jacob stood his ground. And although it was a struggle, he came out victorious against God’s angel. Jacob did not let the power nor the anointing of this angel kept him from obtaining what he felt rightfully belonged to him. The angel could have easily taken Jacob out. But Jacob was determined to not be shaken nor be silent by this angel.

Although Jacob put up a good fight, the angel displayed his pure strength and ability by simply touching Jacob’s hip socket. Resulting in Jacob’s socket disjointing itself. The angel of the LORD was making a point to Jacob by doing this. That this was insanity on his part to keep on pursuing a battle that Jacob actually could not and should not actually win. But this did not deter Jacob. He continued his pursuit against God. For he was determined to receive his blessing from God.

Now we have to be mindful that all this wrestling with God started from Jacob positioning himself to pray to God about his concerns and fears. His prayer time became so intense that it caused or triggered an angel of the LORD to appear before him. When Jacob saw the angel of the LORD, he saw an opportunity to gain God’s favor. But he soon realized he was going to have to fight, or wrestle to gain that favor.
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Today, many of our circumstances are no different than Jacob’s. Some of us need to position ourselves during our prayer time with God and invite God into our personal wrestle match. We need to challenge God in order to gain His favor and to become victorious in our walk with Christ. For life will present before us situations where we too must set aside time to have intense conversations with God. And when it does, we need to be persistent in our prays to gain God’s favor. This may require on our part to take God on as did Jacob. We may need to wrestle with God in order to obtain our victory. But we must be mindful that sometimes in our wrestling we may be injured. That injury can leave a very noticeable limp like Jacob’s. But like Jacob, we can limp away knowing we not only wrestled with God for God to bless us concerning our future endeavors. But we can also win. We can prevail against a mighty angel of the LORD to obtain favor with God.