Test, Attack or Consequence? (A devotional from the "God, For Sinners" - Devotional Series)

"God, for Sinners" Devotional Series by Trista Robinson-Ashley
Test, Attack, or Consequence: Blaming God, or the devil, but Overlooking Our Own Sins.

Some things in life are not the result of enemy attacks or even God testing us. Some situations are simply the consequences of not following God's will and/or willingly doing something we know we should not do. We can easily get it confused and blame God, or the devil, for certain setbacks/circumstances in our lives...but it would be wise to stop, seek God, and take inventory of your actions, to ensure we recognize the truth of the situation.

Why is this important? 

If we continue to assume every situation is a test from God or an attack of the enemy, we can overlook the bigger issue - the sin in our lives. Yes, we know God forgives us for sin, but that does not mean we [always] get out of the consequences that come as a result of sin. Sometimes, God does give us grace and we don't feel the consequences, but this is not always [and in my experience, not often]. God is a JUST God - even when it comes to the consequences His beloved children face.

I.E. Though Christ came into the world to give salvation and free us from the bondage of sin, but the consequence of sin is that we still live in the flesh and in a sin filled world that does not acknowledge God. Yes, our Father provided grace for us as a result of His infinite mercy, but we must also remember He is a just God, who does not interfere with the laws of sowing and reaping. If you cater to your flesh and sow sin, you reap the consequences of sin. If you focus on God and sow truth, you reap the benefits of truth and righteous living.

Some of us are going through certain situations in life and we're begging, pleading, praying and sometimes blaming (be honest) God. As a result we're becoming more and more consumed with our problems and less and less consumed with God--- knowing God, loving God...serving God. 

We're seeking His hand from a place of frustration and anger asking God why, why, why. And, we can't hear God speak for all the talking, but He is speaking. 

Listen, be quiet. 

Stop blaming, complaining, yelling, and pointing - and go to God with a repentant heart asking Him to help you see YOU, reveal to you any sins you've not repented for, any sins that resulted in consequences that you may not realize. Ask God to help you hear, understand and accept responsibility for anything you may have done....because until you do, you will find yourself going around the same mountain, making the same mistakes, in the same desert...

It's time to come out.....go to God, listen and don't dispute or combat. Yes, you can justify and blame and it will make you feel good for a moment; or, you can face God, allow Him to show you the truth, come to repentance, and receive His grace and mercy to begin life anew - coming out of the desert, away from the mountain, and into the abundant life He has called you to live. Try Him. Selah.

"Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." Galatians 6:7-8

Life...or Death.

“For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” – Philippians 1:21

No, this doesn’t mean Christ wants you to kill yourself – it’s the fleshy actions and attitudes that drive us that He wants dead – He wants to take them and give you something more, something better. His fresh Spirit – peace, joy, love, security, assurance in Him, trust – no matter what you’re going through. Not saying it’ll always be easy and you’ll have everything figured out – but, you always have Him as a security blanket to run too when you need Him. You can always depend on Him to work all things out – if we’re open – if we recognize Him working and blessing, as He always does.

God wants us to put to death the things of the flesh – and we all have ways of the flesh no matter who we are or how holy we think we may be – but He knows we can’t do this alone. We don’t have the capacity to put away the flesh as long as we’re in it, only Christ can do that. By accepting His salvation, and asking Him to come into our hearts – we are open to receive His Holy Spirit, which guides and directs us through the obstacles, and joys, of life. But receiving His Salvation and Spirit aren’t the end of it. Once received, we must train it just as we would our physical bodies, if we want to grow strong in Christ and allow His, Holy Spirit, to prevail in our bodies and ultimately in our everyday actions.

The reputation of the church today is damaged – the Christian community – damaged, because so many of us take on the label of “Christian” but we act nothing like Christ. We’ve no joy in Christ – there’s no change in our lives, no benefit. We still dabble in things of the world trying to bring secular things into the church allowing ourselves to be influenced – instead of US, God’s Children, the CREATOR of all – being the influence. Why should we have to imitate the one who steals, kills, and destroys? Why are we so drawn to the things of the world? ---- and I’m not just talking about you, this goes for me too, I am in no way perfect, there are still ways in me that I’m sure God is pruning, polishing and working out.

I read a devotional today that talked about the choices we make, life or death, Christ or satan, in our everyday lives. Every single moment we choose life or we choose death. When we put excessive food, drinks, and drugs in our bodies that we know are unhealthy and contribute to disease – we choose death (physical death of the body, disease ailment, and poor quality of life due to ailments). When we choose to dwell on the negative things in our lives instead of looking at life with gratitude, appreciating what we have and what God is doing – we choose death (death of the mind, depression, as we fail to find hope and trust in God). When we forgo our prayer and quiet time with God, for things of this world, we choose death (death of the Spirit, as we feed the flesh/selfish desires, over God.) Each moment is a choice – a choice that brings us closer to God or pulls us away from Him.

So many of us live in a sort of tug of war. We take two steps forward in Christ, then one step back. One step forward, then two steps back – and this is okay, God does not expect and knows we will not get it right in one swoop. Only Christ did this. However, He has provided a way for us to overcome this tug of war – LIFE, IN CHRIST. Living in Christ doesn’t mean you’re at the church 24-7, serving in every ministry, spewing scripture in every conversations and separating yourself from the people of the world because you’re too “holy” to be “contaminated” by the “sinful”. Living in Christ means you literally yield your fleshly ways, desires, thinking to Christ and let His Spirit, Holy Spirit, become the head – the lead. Not this, Jesus is my co-pilot, THAT’s the problem! We’re still trying to lead with God being an advisor, instead – we need to take a backseat and let the Lord lead. In time, it can grow into a partnership where you are indeed a co-pilot (with God still being the captain) but this takes time and consistency.

So how do we live in Christ? RELATIONSHIP. Honestly that’s it. Relationship. It’s the time you invest in knowing Christ, getting to know Our Father, the Living God. Understanding His Holy Spirit and how He speaks and prompts. It’s no one way to do this – it’s a combination of daily prayer, self-study of the scriptures and prayers for understanding, listening to others preach/teach, revelation as you grow in your relationship with Christ, and just generally spending time – ALONE – with God. As you would with anyone else you want to know. The more we spend time in Christ, getting to know our Father, the more we fall in love with Him and want to be like Him. Really – it’s true, and slowly you’ll change anything that God desires – and most of all, you’ll find you desire to be more like Christ. This is how we “die to self” and allow Christ to live, how we are able to live in the world, but not be of the world (i.e. be one with, act like, indulge in things of).

This is an ongoing process, it will never be complete as long as we are in this body – but the pursuit of perfection and consistency in relationship with God, will transform your world – mind, body, and spirit. We don’t have to live a life of fleeting moments of joy. God has called us to abundance in life – not easy, not without struggle – but peace, joy, security in Him. He wants to give you good things and wants to bless you with the desires of your heart – but we must be willing to let go of ourselves and our desire to “control” and have it “our way” and give total control over to Christ, then we will become One with He as He is one with Christ and Christ and they are One with the Holy Spirit – who dwells in you. One mind, one heart – same desires, willing spirit to follow and do the will of God, to advance the Kingdom of God. It’s seeking God first – and His desire, not even for your life but – period. God’s desire overall, when you focus on Christ – I mean really getting to know God, taking that time with Him and seeking His will above all – even your own desires, you will gain His LIFE to the full and in abundance – that you so desperately seek in the world and your own desires.

“When you encounter the choice between life and death today – as you inevitably will – ask yourself: what can I do to choose Jesus, to choose life, today?” ~Gwen Ford Faulkenberry.

“Meanwhile, live in such a way that you are a credit to the Message of Christ.” Philippians 1:27   

Tears of joy......

I was never supposed to be here...

I was the girl that always felt unwanted....

Sometimes unloved...

confused...

I had no idea who I was....

Who I was meant to be....

I vested myself in relationships.

Unfulfilled.

Sex....

Unfulfilled.

Partying....

Unfulfulled.

Money.....

Unfulfilled....

Drugs.....

Unfulfilled....

Then I guess God said - she's not getting it.

So He pursued me.

He chased me down.

Sat me down.

Opened me up.

Broke my heart towards Him, that I might be able
and willing to come to full repentance.

And He poured into me.

HE DID.

Yes, God Himself.

Pours into me.

Little old me.

He chose me.

called me.

set me apart.

In spite of labels....

In spite of my orientation.

In spite of churches kicking me out and telling me
who I could not serve - as if they were God Himself.

NO!!!

My Father called me and He said to me this morning,

As I sat at His feet...and cried tears of joy in His arms...

"I am pleased with You my daughter...there is a time for all things....

A time to live...

A time to die...

A time to weep...

A time to rejoice....

This, My dear daughter, is your time to rejoice...

You have endured and proven yourself faithful and true to Me. 

Let no man tell You, I have not called you...

For I have called you for JUST a time as this...

Go...bless and be blessed. 

Love...and be loved.

Show others what life is really like with Me.....

Rest in Me. And I in You. 

And I AM with you always. 

Never again will you feel unwanted, unloved. 

Rejoice. 

This is your season."

So...I laugh! This girl...just can't stop crying - tears of joy...because I was never
supposed to be here...and never thought I would.......lol, I just hope I can stop crying
by the time they put my make-up on!!! LOLOLOL!!!

I have put my faith in God...and He has proven [though He did not have to, He's just that kind of Father]
Himself time and time and time again. I will doubt Him NO MORE.

Psalm 13:5  - But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.

What a beautiful day to be a bride....

But Lord, I'm glad they are happy tears but PLEASE help me to STOP crying so I can function...

LOL....

I think this song pretty much sums it all up....

A Prayer...for Today, for God's Glory!

Glorious Father! 

I will bless You at all times, for Your praises shall continue to be in my mouth (Ps. 34:1) I Praise You! I applaud You Lord! (Ps. 117) Your love has taken over my life and I am glad! Your faithful ways are eternal O Lord, Your glory is never-ending, unmatched, and cannot be cancelled (Psalm 18:20 – 24) Thank You Abba, for being My Father, for being My provider, for being my Protector, my Shelter in the wind and storm. You are indeed my refuge Lord, You are my One and Only Savior. Father, I thank You that I am a new creature, because I am in Christ as it tells me in 2 Corinthians. I thank You that though I am yet still a sinner, You loved me enough to sacrifice Your Righteous Son, Christ Jesus, Who spilled His blood that I may live and have life…and have life to the full! I turn my face, my heart, my eyes to You Lord, I sacrifice my life and give all of me to You. Everything I am, everything I have now or will ever have – belongs to You. Even my first born to my last born. Father, the very hairs on my head are numbered by Your word and every hair, will do Your will just as will every limb. Train even my thoughts to You Lord, let me not even think of things that fall outside Your Kingdom way. Heal me of past hurts, broken hearts, lost dreams and disappointments. Take away the feelings of pain, fear, anguish, hopelessness. Help me to forget the former things and to not dwell on the past any longer! Your word said You are doing a NEW thing and Lord and it springs up NOW (Isaiah 43:18-19) ! I don’t want to be like Lot’s wife who was turned into a pillar of salt because she looked back, I want to be like Abraham, Noah, even Christ – looking forward to that which lies ahead because I know what is coming is greater than what has been! 

Heal our minds Lord…our minds…our minds…and our hearts. Lord we’re a broken people, broken and many of us are living with hurts, pains, disappointments and despair – touch right now Lord, wherever we are – whatever we’re doing – and run your righteous Right Hand across our hearts, minds, bodies and spirits, give us a NEW way of thinking, NEW life, NEW Spirit, NEW mind Lord! Let us let go of the old wineskins that keep us in bondage to the old ways of thinking, which keep us bound to the old sins and habits that keep us in our desert periods. Lord, soften our hearts and open our ears, close our mouths and let us listen to You. Let us seek Your Face, to know You and stop seeking Your hand to get from You. Help us to develop relationship, to pant for you as a deer pants for water by a stream, let us become enthused in our walks, obsessed with Your love, and passionate about Your presence and our relationship with You. Let us not be comfortable with the surface, with the mundane, with secondary relationships but let every person, including myself and my family, develop a desire for You Lord that makes it impossible to get through the day without You. You are my EVERYTHING Lord. I cannot do this life without you! None of us can….and for those who think they can, forgive them and let them see what life is like when you remove your hand, that they may repent and return to You with a full heart. 

Father, I ask for revival – throughout the world. Bring Your children together from all parts of this earth, unite us. Help us to be as on, just as You, Christ and Your Holy Spirit are one who work together for the good of Your Kingdom. Give us courage to stand up instead of shying away. Give us strength in place of fear. Give us peace and confidence in You Lord. Help us to no longer be content with the mundane religious relationship and to begin to experience the fullness of Your power, Your way and Your truth – let us begin to walk in You, in Spirit and Truth and do the “greater things” that Christ told us we would do, just as the apostles did. Lord, right now, the church patterns itself after the world as if You are some copy-cat who isn’t the Creator of the universe! Nothing the devil can cook up is new or fresh, it’s all a knock off of Your genius Lord – so I ask that You help us to take back the arts, the media, the schools, the communities, our youth and young adults - Lord, help us to take back all these areas that have become corrupted with the ways of the world and return them to You! Help us to show the world that You are the true and living God and serving You is not outdated, bland, boring, or for prudes – anything the enemy can do, You’ve done and done perfect – his is only a poorly constructed knock off. Raise up young children, youth, teenagers, young adults, old adults – everyone Lord – You said You would pour out Your Spirit on Young and old – so we’re looking for that! We’re expecting that! Revival Lord! Revive! 

Lord, you already know the burdens faced by every person represented in this room – even if they never look in – I ask that you intervene Lord. Where salvation is needed, give them a heart of repentance and turn their hearts to Christ that they may accept Him and begin life anew! Bring people into their lives who will nurture and support them, who will be an example. For those who need growth Lord, grow them in You. Give them a heart for You, help them to cut out the distractions and excuses that keep them from getting closer to You, spending time with You. Send people to help them learn, to show them how to study, to be patient with them to work with them, someone they can relate to as they grow in their walk with You. Give them a willing spirit and a desire to do so for themselves. For those who need to come to repentance because they have strayed away from Your loving path – restore them Lord, give them the heart of repentance, compel them to return to You where life is secure, where You are our refuge, our covering, our grace. Lord, I know that some of us can’t get past our own circumstances to come to You so I ask for Your mercy and Your grace, ease the burdens Lord, give them some help – for Your glory – be the provider that You are, the Father who gives greater gifts than good fathers on earth, Who feeds the sparrows and dresses the flowers of the fields. Lord You know all of our needs: food, clothing, transportation, debt relief, new homes, financial increase, lasting employment, healing, weight loss, evictions, relocations, grief, prison, childcare, protection, mental health, friendships, love, children…Lord whatever the issue whatever the problem – we know You are the answer and nothing is to hard for You Lord. I ask that You answer these problems in such a way that we know it is You Lord and I pray that when You do, each and every person has a heart of gratitude that moves us to deeper relationship, trust, and faith in You. 

Thank You Abba for answering this prayer before I even typed it, thank You for putting this prayer on my heart and for moving on it Lord. Thank You for transforming lives and that someone will be saved today Lord! Thank You! You are a glorious, mighty, marvelous God and I adore You!! Now to Him Who is able to do immeasurably more than all I can ask or imagine according to His Power at work within us, I give GLORY TO GOD!! PRAISE HIS NAME!!! Amen and Hallelujah!! God is Good!

Everyone Doesn't Want Your Help....Some Just Want Attention....Don't Enable.

There is a difference between a person wanting your help and simply wanting your attention. When a person wants help - they will take the help/advice given and use this to move forward, from the old habits/problems/issues and into a new place in life. The problem or whatever it was that they needed help with has been dealt with and the person can move forward in life able learning from the situation and using it to make wiser choices in the future. They don't keep having the same problems over and over again - because they are actually taking the "help" and making an effort to change their lives.

Now when someone simply wants attention - they will ask for your "help" but nothing will ever come of it. They'll be seeking your help and advice for the very same issues in three years as they are today. They don't want the help - advice - or guidance - they only want the attention that comes with your advice, guidance, assistance. These are the individuals who have the same issues and complaints today as they did one, two, three years ago. The situation never changes - no matter how much you pour into them or try to help them and no matter what, they always seem to find a problem and see the bad. This is a drainer - they have no intention on receiving help, they are getting what they desire - your attention, your time, your energy, your focus - don't enable them.

God calls us to help one another, but He does not call us to be manipulated and used. Not only does this empower the individual to look to and trust in man for what they need (instead of God), this also can cause you to turn your focus from God, as you become "savior" to the person you're trying to help. And this is not me talking about any individual, for those who like to read more into things than what's there, this is something that I have observed and has been on my heart. Many people are complaining about feeling used/taken advantage of by people and though those who do these things are at fault - those who continuously allow themselves to be used in this way, without ever learning from the situations, are also partially at fault. We must learn from these things - so we can recognize them and have wisdom enough to empower them to seek God for what they are missing, instead of man who will never be enough. 

Loving People in spite of People.....

If you cut-off every person who lets you down, hurts you or breaks your trust - you'll surely find yourself completely alone in the end. So what do we do?

We need to love people enough to love them where they are, as they are - this is what it means to love someone fully, deeply, without condition. That's not to say that we should open ourselves up to manipulation and allow ourselves to be used and abused, by no means, but that is to say - that even if someone has done us intentional harm and they mean us malice - we - who bear the name "Christian" - must be willing to keep on loving.

Our love should always be evident - even in the midst of hatred from others. We should always show and offer the love Christ has so freely (and mercifully) given to us. The only perfect love...is the love of God....so stop holding people to perfection in this area. All of us are flawed and all of us, at some point, will hurt someone even in when intentions were/are pure. Not every hurt is done out of malice or even with ill intent.

Instead, we are called to do as Christ does.... meet them where they are. Love people in spite of things. Love people anyway! Real love, pure love --- the kind of love that loses count of who has done more and who has done less. The kind of love that gives and helps without underhanded motives. the kind of love that endures-- even when you may not receive back the same love and kindness, even in the face of slander and hate - LOVE!

Be strong, be courageous, be firm and wise, be diligent! Focus on love and keep your eyes on Christ and let Him do the rest.

WE ARE CHARGED with LOVE! 
Love...
Beyond the faults.
Beyond the pain. 
Through the betrayal.
In the midst of anger and frustration. 
When they try to manipulate and use. 
When they slander and abuse. 
When they scheme and lie. 
When they hate you without reason and they set you up to throw you down. 
L-O-V-E.
Love! Deeply. 
Love! Purely. 
Love! Wholly. 
For LOVE! covers a multitude of sins....even your own. 
The answer to all things....
LOVE! 

*Note, this is not to say if you are being abused - physically, spiritually, or emotionally that you are to stay with someone under the guise of love. You can love someone and also sometimes have to walk away from that person to protect yourself and your spirit. Some people do not mean you well and the enemy (the devil) will use any vessel he can to come against you. However, if God instructs you to walk away from someone who is not acting in love towards you - someone who may have even harmed you - this does NOT give you permission to go around slandering, gossiping, and generally being messy and nasty towards the individual(s) or when mentioning the person to others. If you've nothing nice to say or you can't help - pray about it. Keep praying for God to heal you and help you overcome your anger - daily if necessary (trust me I've done it) - until you find that you no longer harbor resentment, anger, or strife for that/those person(s). We are still called to love and forgive ALL people  that we may also receive forgiveness... seek guidance from God always above all else and let don't make moves until He guides. Blessings!

The Power of Intimacy....

One of the reason many Christians and the church lack the power and victory predesignated for us by our Father, through Christ, is because we don’t have that intimate relationship with God. The bible tells us that we are to do greater things than even Christ did (John 14:12) – and what did Christ do? He Loosed the demon possessed, He healed the sick, He opened the eyes of the blind, He fed the masses with little food, He even raised the dead! Now I know what you’re thinking….wait a minute, I’m not Christ – that was Jesus, I mean of course HE could do those things. Well, not only did Jesus do them, but the apostles also did them after Christ returned to heaven to be at the right hand of the Father. Check out the book of Acts if you don’t believe me!

First, let’s take a look at the word ‘intimate’ and breakdown the general meaning (of course we know in this manner we do not mean a sexual relationship so we will skip that meaning):

·        Closely acquainted; familiar, close. "intimate friends"

o   Synonyms (same): close, bosom, dear, cherished, faithful, devoted, fast, firm, familiar;

o   Antonyms (opposite): distant

·        (Of a place or setting) having or creating an informal friendly atmosphere. "an intimate little Italian restaurant"

o   synonyms: friendly, warm, welcoming, hospitable, relaxed, informal;

o   antonyms: formal, cold

·        Involving very close connection. "their intimate involvement with their community"

·        Private and personal. "going into intimate details of his sexual encounters"

o   synonyms: personal, private, confidential, secret;

·        (Of knowledge) detailed; thorough. "an intimate knowledge of the software"

o   synonyms: detailed, thorough, exhaustive, deep, in-depth, profound;

o   antonyms: sketchy, superficial

·        A very close friend. "his circle of intimates"

o   synonyms: close friend, best friend, bosom friend, confidant, confidante;

A great way to test this is to go through the definitions above and honestly ask yourself if you are these things with God – or if you are more like the antonyms (or opposite).

Throughout the bible, God used ordinary men (and women) to do extraordinary things! Even in the Old Testament! Yet and still, present day believers tend to act as though that power was only reserved for the biblical stories of the old age, never to be tapped into by this generation of believers. In a way, the church has allowed us to dilute the word of God to mere words – reserving authority in Christ for only the “highest” and “holiest” in the church.  WHATEVER!  When Christ died, He died for everyone! When the Holy Spirit was LOOSED on earth, He was LOOSED over all believers. Not just the “priests” and “teachers”. No! All of God’s children were charged with going forth and doing “greater things” than Jesus did – not just a select few. Sadly, we’ve been duped into believing we can’t access this power and this is why the churches seem dead – unable to help or make a difference. This is why people think “I’ll pray for you” is just a nice saying – but, it’s not really going to change anything.

I cannot stress enough how important the following scripture remains:

“But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness….” Matthew 6:33.

This is where we fail. We don’t seek Him first. We don’t develop a deep intimate connection with Him. We are comfortable staying at the surface – allowing our pastors and grandparents or popular preachers feed us regurgitated spiritual food that we never digest ourselves. Intimate relationships are only made through a dedicated and conscious investment in knowing the other person…God already knows us deeply and intimately, He created us…so now it’s up to us to get to know Him (and in the process, learn all about yourself!).

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t deny that the trouble of this world can weigh us down…but I also don’t deny the power of Christ to keep us calm in all circumstances and filled with peace and joy ----if our focus is truly on Him.  With intimacy with Christ – the kind where you can’t keep your mind off Him! The kind where you really do have songs of praise in your heart, and you are overflowing with joy and peace – in spite of things not being perfect in your life – the kind of intimacy in which you seek God to know Him and not because of what you need and what He can do for you.

Oh no, this is a totally new type of relationship with God. One in which God confides in you just as you in He. One in which He trust you with the secret things of God and He considers you a friend, not just a child or a servant in His kingdom….. Tapping into this type of relationships gives you access to the limitless power of the true and living God! You’ll begin to walk in His power, you’ll begin to do things that you’ve never known and you’ll be amazed at God’s glory upon you and through you….. This is when you will enter the phase of “anything you ask in My name shall be given unto you” that Jesus promised in John 14. 

But this does not come without much investment in your relationship with God. Because He’s got to get your heart right in order to allow any of His children to tap into this type of God awesome power that it may be used for His glory and not our personal gain. But don’t for a moment think that you won’t be blessed in the midst.

When humans seek God with their entire heart, desiring to develop a lasting, loving intimate relationship with Him – God surely rewards them with this. And from that springs an overflow of peace, joy, righteousness, strength, right-living, justice, joy and most of all – LOVE.

So please, if you’re reading this and you think a relationship with God is something to be overlooked and put on the back burner until you’re old and grey…I’m here to tell you now – you’re missing out. Missing out on the very best of God – the purpose after the purpose! Salvation is only the start – but the victory and power comes when as you grow deep in your love for and relationship with the Lord –and this is when we’re able to go out and break strongholds, bind and LOOSE  and introduce the lost to the light of salvation! But it all starts with you…. Just how much are you willing to invest?

Go deeper… God is waiting to show Himself to you in a new way!

Prayer:

Dear Lord, I come before You first giving You praise for sending this word and allowing me to be Your vessel. I ask that you put me out of the way and let all who read this see You in these words. Penetrate hearts, divide souls and spirits as only Your word can do Lord. Bring those to this word Who have been struggling and going around the mountain for years, decades even, entire lifetimes – and yet they have no understanding why. They know of You Lord, they were even raised up around Your word – but don’t understand the truth in Your word and the might of Your Power!

Father I ask you for a great awakening within Your church – and not the physical church buildings – I mean the church body, Your chosen agents assigned for a specified time to carry out your predestined will and purpose, not only for our lives but for Your Kingdom. Father we thank You for a total move of Your Spirit, May Your Holy Spirit overwhelm us with praise, joy, peace, strength, power in You that we may go forth with renewed zeal, vigor, and BOLDNESS – declaring Your goodness and Your word!

Father, You said this is our time to rise up! Bring us together, connect us, mature us in You! Most of all Father – help us to go deeper in You to seek You with our whole hearts, pure hearts, without selfish motives or desires. Let us seek You to know You because knowing You is good! Abba, I ask that you bless those who have received this seed, may this, Your word fall in good soil, take root, and spring up a great harvest for Your Glory Father!

And for those who are in despair, lost, fearful, lonely, unsure, frustrated, on the verge of giving up – suicide – LORD I BIND THESE FEELINGS FROM THE PITS OF HELL IN THE NAME OF JESUS AND I CAST THEM DOWN BACK WITH THE DEMONS OF SATAN WHERE THEY BELONG! LORD, YOUR WORD TELLS US THAT YOUR WILL BE DONE – ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN – Father, we know from Your word, in heaven there is no weeping, pain, sadness, frustration, death! NO!

Your word tells us in heaven there is PEACE, JOY, STRENGTH, MERCY, TRUST, LOVE, LIFE – RENEWED! THERE IS WHOLENESS! THERE IS MORE THAN ENOUGH! Lord, it is NOT Your will for Your children to live empty lives poor in Spirit, You have called us to live an EXCEEDINGLY ABUNDANT ABOVE AND BEYOND LIFE – SO I LOOSE THE FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT INTO THE LIVES OF EACH PERSON READING THIS RIGHT NOW IN THE NAME OF JESUS! I LOOSE PEACE, I LOOSE JOY, I LOOSE STRENGTH, I LOOSE LOVE, I LOOSE FORGIVENESS, I LOOSE TRUST, ENDURANCE, PATIENCE, and all the FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT LISTED IN GALATIANS 5:22-23!

Thank You LORD! THANK YOU THAT YOU WILL DO THIS NOW! RIGHT NOW! And that those who need this, will endure under the pressure as you transform and restore their lives to wholeness in You. Help them to understand Lord, when they want to give up that they must go THROUGH in order to get to the promise land but You will be with them (and have gone before them) every step of the way…help them…help all of us…to trust You, even when our flesh tells us otherwise.

Now to Him Who is able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine, to God be the glory, forever and ever, in Jesus Holy Name, Amen! Praise God!!! Glory!!!!! 

The Glory of My Father's Love.... by Trista Robinson

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33

The more I seek God, the more I trust Him.

The more I trust God, the more I rely on Him.

The more I rely on God, the more like Him I become.

The more like God I become, the more I experience and live in His righteousness.

The more I experience and live in God’s righteousness, the more of His peace I enjoy in my life.

The more of God’s peace I enjoy in my life, the more I am able to focus on Him and glorify Him by doing His will.

The more I am able to focus on God and glorify God by doing God's will, the more I will desire to seek Him.

The more I desire to seek my Father, the more I trust my Father.

The more I trust my Father, the more I rely on my Father.

The more I rely on my Father, the more like my Father I become.

The more like my Father I become, the more I experience and live in my Father’s righteousness.
The more I experience and live in my Father’s righteousness, the more of my Father’s peace I enjoy in my life.

The more of my Father’s peace I enjoy in my life, the more I am able to focus on my Father and glorify my Father by doing my Father’s will.

The more I am able to focus on my Father and glorify my Father by doing my Father’s will, the more I will desire to know my Father.

The more I desire to know my Father, the more I fall in love with my Father…

The more I fall in love with my Father, the more I rest in my Father…

The more I rest in my Father, the more I depend on Him for all things…

The more I depend on my Father for all things, the more my Father shows me my trust is well placed.

The more my Father shows me my trust is well placed, the deeper I fall in love with Him…

The deeper I fall in love with Him….

The deeper I wish to go….

Ah......The glory of My Father's Love....

Selah. :)

“And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.” Isaiah 32:17

Written by: Trista Robinson 10.9.13. 

....A New Season on the Horizon.....God is Awesome!

Dear God, You told me that those who usually have my back would not be there this go round and it would be people I never expected - even some who were once against me - who would be my biggest supporters now....and of course - You were right! At first, I was extremely afraid and a bit upset with You over this...every time I turned around it was like I was losing SOMETHING...since I left Houston I've LOST, LOST, LOST at least that's what I thought initially - ---- I now realize, I've gained so much in YOU - most importantly a relationship with YOU. Talk about a transformation - HA!! Anyone who knows Trista  before 2008 can tell you I am truly NOT the same person I was five years ago...shoot...even two years ago. LOL.

That being said - I'm finally grasping this concept of TRUSTING GOD COMPLETELY and I'm really looking forward to all You have in store - all the new relationships and doors that You are opening.... I've had a lot of ashes in my life and I've been disappointed more than I care to think on - but You said, a new season is coming and everything You have been promised will come to pass - as long as I continue to seek You and keep You first. I wouldn't have it any other way! Lord, I trust You. I believe You. I rely on You. I've given up all those ashes and I look forward to the beauty You are bringing into my life!

I thank You for every person who I've had the pleasure of knowing and loving; yes, even those who were sandpaper, causing me to mature in love, forgiveness and how I treat and react to others. I'm done dwelling on people who are no longer here whether I separated myself or they separated themselves, I've spent too much time toiling over people trying to force things, force relationships...then being disappointed when the things don't work out the way I expected --- I'm done with that, I'm letting them go and moving on...with no ill feelings attached...just peace in knowing that what's coming is greater than what has been.

I am really looking forward to this new season - with new connections, new relationships and putting down roots in a place where we can form lasting relationships and impact our communities for the better. :) It's time [finally] for me to put down some roots again, develop lasting friendships here in our local area, and really impact the community - bless some people  and enjoy ourselves  in the process. I'm excited Lord... Thank You for all of it..every single moment that has instilled in me the strength, determination, motivation and joy I have today! YOU ARE GOD ALONE AND YOU ARE AWESOME! :)

A Word from the Lord - 9.11.13

A Word from the Lord:

9.11.13

The thing about calling yourself a "Christian" that many don't get it is that people hold you to a certain standard - because even the world knows what you SHOULD be doing according to the Word vs. what we actually do as we wear the "title" with pride (and sometimes a bit of superiority as well).

The true test of your "Christian" character comes when you have to actually practice what you preach. When you actually have to help that person who continues to slander and dog you. When you have to let go of your "feelings" to walk in forgiveness towards someone who’s done you wrong (true forgiveness not that "long handle spoon mess" - Jesus didn't do that and we know it). When you have to actually humble yourself and think of others as more important, letting go of your own selfish ambitions and learning to operate from the Spirit - trusting God to take care of your needs/wants/desires as you follow His will for your life. It is going out of your way to be a blessing to those around you however you can. Stepping up to help someone in need - even when it's an inconvenience to you.  Refusing to engage in gossip, slander, malice, or anything else that harms another child of God - whether they are walking in the Spirit or not.  

We who claim to imitate Christ should live as Christ lives - we should literally be the living breathing examples of who Christ is on earth this day (though He died, yet He lives so we speak of Him in present tense because He is ever present).....but we are clearly failing as so many have yet to see Him. We're sold out for the church but not for God.  We're sold out for our pastors and preachers, but not for Christ. We know the word but we're not walking in it. We are moved to emotion by church songs and passionate sermons but, we're not moved to repentance, we're not allowing our minds to be transformed/renewed. Our churches aren't operating in power - some pastors are more concerned with the public and public appearances and promoting their "church" that they aren't truly tending their flock!

We're walking out of Sunday service or mid-week bible study and right into sin - fornication, slander, malice in our hearts, being unkind, refusing to help people, greed, selfishness, pride, ego, being controlled by emotions, driven by human will and desire. We sit up in church and mock and slay one another during service, after service, in between service, at mid-week service. We create cliques, separating ourselves from other believers EVEN IN THE PLACE OF FELLOWSHIP! Pointing out their sins and downfalls as if we're perfect - instead of praying for them and restoring them gently as Christ instructed. There is no distinction between the Children of God and those of the world - and this should not be!  

Churches competing, pastors dividing, old believers shunning new believers, choosing tradition over relationship.... people are literally coming to the church for salvation and instead receiving condemnation, guilt even more shame...and yet, we wonder why we have no power. How can we walk in the fullness of God when we've not yet even grasped the most basic principles of Christ - within the church! 

It's not all on the flock though - there's much to be said about the shepherds entrusted with these flocks that are roaming aimlessly - but many of them are too busy extending their careers and names in the communities vs. extending Christ and making themselves available to tend to their flocks. Our churches have all the trimmings, youth groups, dance groups, women's groups, singles groups, travel groups, socials - we're hosting dinners, tournaments, concerts, shows....we have everything a sinner could want.....and yet, we're often missing or quickly brushing over what that which they need the most - Christ and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit once it comes upon you. This is why people can walk into the church - hear the sermon - shout, hoop, holler and scream - then turn around and walk right out the church and gossip, fornicate, lie, slander, cheat, steal, hold grudges, have nasty attitudes, operate in selfishness and so much more (see Galatians 5:19 - 21 below) instead of operating from the Spirit as we've been called (see Galatians 5: 22 - 23 below)

God is vexed and grieved at what we are doing - we who call ourselves "Christians" we who are supposed to be His people. We've tarnished, trampled and shamed His name before men with our false sense of salvation that comes from self-righteousness instead of God's grace. The time is coming for this to change. God is not please and refuses to be mocked any longer. Churches and leaders will be exposed (those who are not following the will of God), new leaders will be raised up who will worship God in Spirit and Truth. The wheat and the chaff will be separated. (wheat = those operating from the Spirit, truly repentant, rely on God’s grace, submissive. Chaff= those operating from the Flesh, unrepentant, rely on self, continues to walk in the ways of the world and uses being human as an excuse to remain in the flesh – they often look quite pious on the outside until you get to know them.)

How long did we think God would stand for us mocking and shaming His name with our behavior? Some of us treat and hold more esteem for designer clothing labels than we do the name of God. But…ever the loving God, He delays to give us the opportunity to repent. This word is for all who claim to serve God. You can heed it or ignore it but the Word of the Lord will stand. 

“…Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. Each one should test their own actions…Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Corinthians 6: 1-10

"You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited,provoking and envying each other." Galatians 5: 13-25

Selah. 

God, for Sinners Devotional Series by Trista Robinson "Are you Repenting or Apologizing to God?"

This is something the Lord laid on my heart recently and it took me by surprise and really opened my spiritual eyes to something I’d been doing that was hindering me and dishonoring God’s grace.

I’d done something wrong and I was quickly convicted in my spirit – I can’t remember exactly what it was but it was something that by the world’s standards – wouldn’t even be a big deal. I knew better so – out of habit, as soon as I felt the conviction, I prayed to seek forgiveness. I remember saying a quick prayer under my breath as I sat in front of the computer, with the TV on, barely closing my eyes and rushing my words…then I went right back to whatever it was I was doing before. Which is why I found myself later that day doing the same exact thing I’d done early and prayed about. So again, I was convicted and got ready to seek forgiveness --- except this time, God stopped me.

He asked, “Are you repenting or, apologizing?”

That stopped me in my tracks…I hadn’t actually thought about it. I didn’t even consider there was a difference. So, God explained to me the meaning of the word REPENT:

1. To feel remorse, contrition, or self-reproach for what one has done or failed to do; be contrite.

2. To feel such regret for past conduct as to change one's mind regarding it: repented of intemperate behavior.

3. To make a change for the better as a result of remorse or contrition for one's sins.

So, in context here – if I was repenting for something I should be so remorseful (deeply filled with regret over what has been done) that it causes me to change my mind regarding that behavior/action and make a change in my actions for the better. Whenever we are truly sorry for something we’ve done – we genuinely go out of our way not to do whatever it is we’ve done to offend again.

However, sometimes – we tend to  apologize for our sins, rather than repent. Instead of acknowledging what we’ve done wrong and that it is wrong and changing our mind and behavior for the better, we give a generally apology for our behavior and ways without having any type of change in mind or behavior. This is how it becomes possible to get up from prayer and do the exact same thing again! 

Apologize is defined as:

1. To make excuse for or regretful acknowledgment of a fault or offense.

2. To make a formal defense or justification in speech or writing.

I had to admit, there were many times, I thought I’d be repenting – and I was simply apologizing. I wasn’t changing my mind and behavior after the fact – I wasn’t even attempting to. I was simply abusing the grace of the cross by allowing my flesh to give me an excuse to act in ways contrary to the Holy Spirit. What’s worse, I’d cloaked it in false humility by calling it repentance, knowing I was just going to do it again.

God showed me how mindless and generic my “prayers of repentance” were. I’d say a quick “First forgive me for my sins…”and rattle off a list of standard sins that I figured I did regularly. Empty words at best. Then I’d go and find myself doing that very thing I’d just “repented” for without even blinking! Then I wondered why there was no change…no power…no “exceedingly abundant, above and beyond” life in the full as Jesus promised. I was still drinking milk, I hadn’t even grasped the most basic principle of the faith yet – disciplining my flesh – and here I was trying to teach others to come to repentance. 

For the first time in a long time I actually repented, instead of apologizing – making excuses or defending my behavior with empty words/promises. I repented for the things that I deemed my “common sins” and changed my mind regarding them. I am learning to walk in the truth that I am filled with the same Spirit as Christ and therefore I can do the things He did…greater things…. Even overcoming my flesh and renewing my mind, through Christ, so that I may come to true repentance and not be a slave to sin in any form. Rather than making excuses for my sins by blaming my flesh, I empower the Spirit to do His work by agreeing with God’s word – that I am more than a conqueror through Christ, nothing is too hard for God and I have died to sin and was raised with Christ, in righteousness! It is by His grace that I am saved and his mercies are new and fresh each day!

It’s up to us to accept it ---- but we must first come to repentance in order to receive the forgiveness that comes with His amazing grace.

God welcomes us to come before His throne with a heart of true repentance so He can open transformed away from that harmful behavior and towards our Him Who has the gift of life!

 He is a good and faithful Father who promises GREAT things for all of His children!

“He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy." Proverbs 28:13

"Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death." 2 Corinthians 7:9-10

“The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9

In Your Journal

Be honest, have you been repenting or apologizing? What are your “common sins”, the sins that you find yourself committing the most? Do you think you are repenting for them and changing your behavior and mind about the behavior? If not, what’s holding you back? Explain how you came to this conclusion.

Spend some time with God in prayer as the Spirit leads.

If you are reading this and you’ve never accepted Christ as your Savior, or you’ve done so before but you know you haven’t been living according to His word, I ask you today to make the choice now to give your life to Him (or back to Him) by asking Him into your heart and accepting His salvation for you. Click the link below to visit the Joyce Meyer website with a short prayer and further follow up information that will help you get closer to Christ after accepting Him…and for those who do make this decision, congratulations!!! Not only are the angels shouting in heaven, God is pleased and happy to have you back home and He has great things in store for your life! Believe Him and trust Him!

Once you do, get into a bible based church that will help you grow and surround yourselves with friends and family who live the word of God throughout their daily lives. Invest in an easy to understand bible like the New International Version and devotionals to help you start to study the word of God daily and watch your relationship with Christ grow and your life change. If you don’t know where to turn for help in this, feel free to inbox me and I’ll be happy to help! God bless!

Please click here to learn more about accepting Christ or if you just accepted Christ.

“Forgive and FORGET” Thus Sayeth the Lord

“God, For Sinners” Devotional Series by Trista Robinson

“Forgive and FORGET” Thus Sayeth the Lord

"If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, "I repent," FORGIVE HIM." Luke 17:3-4

Remember, for those of us who claim to be of Christ - we must forgive as God does....none of this "I'll forgive you but I ain't forgetting" mess. We can't be lukewarm and halfhearted in our forgiveness, regardless what has been done, regardless how many times they’ve done it, no matter how bad it was – we must forgive just as God forgives us – this is the condition. The problem today is many of us claim to be “of God” but we live “of the flesh”. Check it, many of you are reading this right now and in your head you’re combating this – you’re saying things like, “she don’t know what I’ve been through” or “Just because I don’t forget don’t mean I don’t forgive”…. Yea I know it, cause I’ve been there. I’ve had some terrible things done to me throughout my life and I know what it is to feel like you “deserve” to feel how you feel. Forgiveness does not deny that you have been hurt. Forgiveness does not deny that you were wronged. Forgiveness does not make the other person “right”, “stronger”, or “better”.

Forgiveness shows your love for God, your honor to God, and your strength and faith in God. Forgiveness really does free you – but only if you forgive and you cast out that sin, just as God does. Imagine if you came to God in prayer, seeking forgiveness, and in the back of His mind – He thought, “Here she come again with that same old apology, I’m so tired of her apologies, I don’t believe her, she keeps doing the same thing, I’m tired of being run over, I’ll forgive but I WILL NOT forget…” What if God actually thought this way – and what if His actions towards us changed based on this? Imagine! Imagine if just for a moment, God’s forgiveness was just like the forgiveness you give to other people….

I know some of us are still smacking our lips and folding our arms. Trust me I’ve been guilty of this many times in my own life, someone makes me mad, I say I forgive but I’m going over the event in my mind, fuming every time I think of it… Yes, I know we think well I’m not still MAD at them, I just don’t TRUST them enough to get that close again so they can hurt me. Trust me, I get it. I do the same thing too but one day God asked me, Is that REAL forgiveness? Is that showing others the same type of mercy and grace I showed you? How would you feel if I did do that to you?

In all my time serving God, God has never thrown up a past sin in my face, nor has He treated me any differently even though I continue to sin and fail Him. He doesn’t tell me, Oh you just asked for forgiveness for that yesterday so I’m over it. He doesn’t smile and say “you’re forgiven” and then go gossip about me to the angels. Could you imagine? Yes, I know seems ludicrous that God would do something like that to His precious children. So then, why do we as His representatives on earth – do it those we are supposed to love as Christ loved the church? Selah.

“"I--yes, I alone--will blot out your sins for my own sake and will never think of them again.” Isaiah 43:25

“For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more."  Hebrews 8:12

I choose to love people - NO, I mean REALLY love people. Not this passive, sometimey, depends on my mood stuff the world does.

For the past six or so months, it's like I've been on this merry go round of testing when it comes to really loving people. No, I'm not talking about "loving" people in such a way that I talk about them behind their backs, have attitudes with them in my private thoughts, or love them from a distance while doing little stuff to try to make their lives difficult (while praying/waiting for their demise - yes that's been me) - but really LOVING people as Christ called us to love them. 

This means, loving someone when I feel slighted, talked about, done wrong, used, abused, rejected, sometimes loving people who I didn't have a reason to be upset with I just was and couldn't tell you why to this day ----- and, might I add, loving people enough to recognize my imperfections/flaws so that I am able to look at situations and admit the wrongs I've also done. This even means loving people when they clearly don't return that love - why? Because this is how God loves us. For a long time I fought against this, feeling justified in my feelings and emotions towards others (sometimes my feelings were justified/but most times they were not because I do the same things (if not more so) they did to piss me off - and I've probably done it to them). 

But today...I am grateful for God to reveal this to me. How ugly it is. How disgusting it is. How bad it looks to the outside world when you profess to walk after Christ but treat your fellow man - even your fellow "Christians" with everything but love. How can I profess Christ and then run around treating others this way? How in the heck am I supposed to minister to others and change lives when I am treating people like crap simply because I feel validated (and you don't have to go around telling people off to treat people like crap - we know when we're throwing shade vs when we're not, we've got to be honest with ourselves). I've been no better than people who reject Christ when I act like this. Thank God for His grace and growth. 

I've been praying for more compassion on people - especially those who harm me (with wisdom of course) and for a while I thought I was just the girl that wasn't that type - but now, the more I invest in God, the more open I am to hearing from Him about His purpose for my life and our relationship together (instead of focusing on others); the more I learn about what really matters vs. what's just a distraction to keep me in bondage to negative thinking and strife among those around me. I was angry with God for constantly allowing me to enter into situations where I had to deal with difficult people - even "threatening" to cut people off so I wouldn't have to deal with this (as if I was hurting God or people - in reality, no one cared, the world kept moving) but now I see, it takes more courage, strength, honor and faith to love people who, like myself, hurt people - than it does to cut people off or react with anger, strife, bitterness, coldness - etc. I realize, when it comes to loving others, I am not better than my fellow brother and sister - it is a daily choice and I want to make the choice to do better and really love as Christ has called. 

I'm FINALLY getting the lesson and I am grateful that God has been so patient with me on this matter. I'm not saying I'm perfect in it yet - but I am growing and doing a lot better. At some point in life you just have to grow up and realize people are going to be people - and you can either hate everyone around you that does the slightest thing to piss you off or you can remember your own sin and shortcomings towards others and choose to love and forgive. Since I've made the decision to start doing the latter - I've experienced much more joy in my life and it really does feel like a burden has been lifted. I pray those struggling with this also experience the same. Selah

The Defense of Marriage - battle in the church - Christ did not call us to argue our "opinions"..... smh.

I am sad to see people actually fussing and fighting with one another via Facebook over personal opinions regarding the marriage debate. Never -- not once have I read any portion of the bible (and I have read it through several times and continue to do so regularly) where Jesus wasted His breath arguing with anyone about their opinions or views - especially not regarding matters such as these. The only thing arguing with people on how YOU feel does is cause strife, dissension, anger, resentment, and it makes people feel judged (whether you are for or against DOMA).

"Do not get involved in foolish discussions about spiritual pedigrees or in quarrels and fights about obedience to Jewish laws. These things are useless and a waste of time." Titus 3:9

"Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels." 2 Timothy 2:23

"You may believe there's nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are those who don't feel guilty for doing something they have decided is right." Romans 14:22

So, while people are sitting around arguing via Facebook over this foolishness - people are hurting, hungry, contemplating suicide, and walking in darkness...if you want to testify about how you feel ---- GO TESTIFY ABOUT THE TRUTH THAT IS JESUS AND HELP SOMEONE KNOW HIM and go out and HELP the sick, hungry, hurting, poor, and lost. Be you gay or straight - THAT, my brothers and sisters in Christ, is what we are called to do. 

"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." James 1:27 

"As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions."Romans 14:1

Smh @the status I just saw and all the "christians" (some for, some against marriage equality) arguing back and forth on it.

"You may think you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse! When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things." Romans 2:4

This is why the church is not walking in the fullness of the power granted to us by God - too many people want to play God by condemning and judging others - telling people who can and cannot serve God - who God will and will not accept, instead of doing what we are called to do- which is LOVE one another, encourage each other to good deed, follow Christ and seek Him with our WHOLE HEARTS, and live in unison with one another. Even if you are gay and you are around people who condemn you - it is not your place to attempt to change their mind or argue with them to "convince" them of your salvation. Our duty is to share Christ with one another, help those in need, seek justice for all people - and most important LOVE GOD WITH OUR WHOLE HEARTS - I can't say that enough! We're so distracted by all this other foolishness that not many people are really looking at the big picture here what God actually called us to do.....let your life be an example of all the words you speak and minister to people through your love and service as Christ did. 

Pray for people continuously whom you are led to pray for...but please stop all the bible thumping, intolerant, self righteous, judgmental, Pharisee and Sadducee actions under the guise of "I'm representing God" ---- I remember reading about some men that went to a friend under the guise of representing God and God went IN on them cause they THOUGHT they were speaking for Him based on what little they knew, but in fact, they were WAY OFF base and knew nothing about nothing. Again, this goes for gay, straight, bi, trans - whatever! If you gonna serve God, get your focus on HIM and watch HIM work and change lives where change is needed. What are you arguing for - do you think God is NOT in control of all things? Do you think anything going on right now is a surprise to Him? Selah. 

"I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose." 1 Corinthians 1:10 

(And just to note, if anyone comes here attempting to argue with anything I've written here, I will refer you back to Titus 3:9 and 2 Timothy 2:23. I make no arguments about unnecessary things when it comes to God.) Andddddd I'm off my soapbox for the day.