Blessings Await You When You Stand in the Truth

 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:4-5).

The world is very bold about standing in its “truth.” As daughters of the Most High, we need to be just as bold or bolder about standing in our Truth. Jesus is the Truth (John 14:6). Jesus came so that we might have life and life more abundantly (John 10:10), but a more abundant life is difficult to have when we are standing in lies.

Satan has compelled many believers to believe the lies he tells by misleading us through our feelings (Jeremiah 17:9). Our emotions can get us to doubt God and the promises that He’s spoken over us. Jesus tells us that He loves us (Jeremiah 31:3), that we are not alone (John 14:16-17), that He’ll never forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), and that He’ll be with us always (Matthew 28:20). Because we do not see God working in our lives or do not see our current situations changing, we give in to our feelings of despair and start to feel that Jesus does not love us or that He has forgotten about us. When we give in to these feelings, we step out of the Truth and step into a lie. Then we are out of the will of God. When we are out of the will of God, we place ourselves under direct attack from Satan. Many believers are confused while being in this space why Jesus does not move on their behalf. Jesus does not operate in lies. We must cast down every imagination that comes against the knowledge of God (2 Corinthians 10:5) by giving the devil back the Truth of what Jesus says in His Word about us. When Satan tells you that Jesus does not love you, quickly give him back God’s Word, “I am precious in Jesus’ sight, and Jesus loves me (Isaiah 43:4).” When he tells you that Jesus has forgotten about you, tell him, “Jesus will never forget me. He has engraved me upon the palms of His hands (Isaiah 49:15-16).” When he tells you that you are a failure, refute his lies and say to that liar and father of lies, “No, I am more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus (Romans 8:37).” Do not entertain Satan’s lies by giving in to your feelings of despair. Continuing to remain in the enemy's lies will cause you to lose heart, and you will eventually abandon your relationship with Jesus.

If you want Jesus to move quickly on your behalf, then you must align yourself with the Truth (John 15:7). Jesus told us that He’d provide all of our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). So instead of asking Jesus for what you need – Jesus knows what we need before we even ask (Matthew 6:31-33), start thanking Him in advance as if your blessing has already manifested in the natural realm – this is what it means to have faith. Jesus told us that He would give us the desires of our hearts if we delight ourselves in Him (Psalm 37:4). So if you have aligned yourself with this truth and asked Jesus for a new car, then wait with expectancy in praise, no matter what the circumstances look like. Jesus moves on our faith, not our feelings.

Remember, ladies, when you stand in a lie, you are out of agreement with God and come into a partnership with Satan. You cannot have a relationship with Jesus if you disagree with His Word (Amos 3:3). If you have been standing in a lie, partnering with the enemy, confess, and repent. Stand in the Truth. Live in the Truth (John 15:4-9). And check your feelings at the door.

XOXO,

 

Jay

The World is Going to Try and “Cancel” You and You Need to be Okay with That

 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31).

If we are faithful followers of Jesus, we should expect the world to try and “cancel” us and not become upset by it. Jesus told us these things would happen during the last days (Matthew 24:9). This world hates Jesus and wants nothing to do with the Truth (John 15:18-25), so therefore, it wants nothing to do with those that follow Jesus. However, as followers of Jesus, we still need to stand on our convictions without wavering. We need to be faithful until death (Revelation 2:10).

Do not fret about losing your job, mega-contracts, friends, and some family members. Do not look to the world as a source. Jesus is our source. He provides everything we need and desire (Philippians 4:19-20; Psalm 37:4). Everything belongs to God (Psalm 24:1). There is no lack in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:32). Jesus promises us in His Word that no one can accuse the people that God has chosen. It is God that makes His people in right standing (Romans 8:33). No one can cancel us except for Jesus because He died for our sins (Romans 8:34) – and Jesus did not come to cancel anyone. He came so that we might have life and life more abundantly (John 10:10). When you decide to take a “loss” for Christ, know that all things are working together for your good because you love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

If you lose your job for standing up for what’s right, this could be God’s way of igniting the pilot under you to get you to do what He’s purposed in you.  If God told you years ago to write a book, start a business, go back to school, or leave your career to go into another industry and you have been procrastinating, then this is God’way of getting you on the path to your destiny. So do not worry about those who do evil (Psalm 37:7). Keep your focus on God. Stay faithful. Be obedient and get busy with what Jesus has designed you to do. Relax in His promises and enjoy the many blessings that God has laid out for you in this life (Ephesians 1:3). And continue to support your brothers and sisters in Christ because they are experiencing the same persecution (1 Peter 5:9).

Remember, ladies, Jesus promised never to leave us, nor forsake us, nor fail us (Deuteronomy 31:8). We are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).

XOXO,

 

Jay

 

How Are You Spending Your Life?

 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. (2 Corinthians 5:10).

All of us are going to give an account to God for how we spend our lives. Some believe that because they do not drink, smoke, or gamble, and do not cheat on their taxes that they will receive a just reward, but Jesus is not going to judge us according to “our righteousness” or society’s “just standards of living.” We cannot work our way into heaven or the kingdom of God. Jesus is concerned about the condition of our hearts. He wants us to be intentional about how we live our lives.

Our lives should glorify God so that others are drawn to Him. Jesus wants us to have a fruitful life, spiritually and physically. Unbelievers should look at our lives and see that God is with us and be drawn to God (John 12:32).

So in preparation to stand before Jesus, take inventory of your life. Have you accepted Jesus as your savior (Romans 10:9)? Do you allow Jesus to be the Lord over your life, meaning, do you listen and obey Him? How are your relationships with others (spouse, children, family, friends, co-workers)? Are you holding on to unforgiveness, resentment, jealousy, or envy? Do you treat people the way Jesus desires? Do you see people the way Jesus sees people? We also have to account for what we think of others because our thoughts become our actions (Proverbs 23:7). What example do you live before others? Or do you live a life of isolation from others? Jesus created us for relationships (Hebrews 10:25). How do you spend your time, money, and resources? Do you only call on Jesus when you’re in trouble, or do you talk to Him throughout your day? E.g., “Thank you, Jesus, for allowing me to get to work on time,” or “Thank you, Jesus, for reminding me to pay the electric bill.” What are your life priorities? Do you consult Jesus in your decision-making? E.g., “Jesus, what do you think I should do today?” “Jesus, what should I do in this situation?”

We do not have time to waste, so let’s intentionally live a life that pleases and glorifies God. Make a daily commitment to listen and obey God. Invite the Holy Spirit to teach you how to live a fruitful life.

Remember, ladies, apart from Jesus, we can do nothing (John 15:5).

 

XOXO,

 

Jay

It’s Dangerous to Be Afraid

 

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death (Revelation 21:8).

The world says that fear is a natural occurrence in life, but it’s unnatural and dangerous to God's children. Jesus did not give us a spirit of fear but one of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). The Greek definition of fear is alarm, fright, or terror. Over one hundred times in the Bible, Jesus tells us to fear not.

Fear is dangerous because it is a gateway spirit for many other unclean spirits such as selfishness, doubt, disobedience, and sickness. When we walk in the spirit of fear, we open the door for selfishness. If Jesus calls us to accomplish a significant task, fear will say, “you can’t do it because you lack the resources,” therefore, we give in and do what we want rather than what God requires from us. Fear will cause us to doubt God’s words and His promises to us. If a situation doesn’t “look” like what God has spoken to us or about us, then we doubt God. If Jesus specifically told you that you shall live and not die (Psalm 118:17), then regardless of what your circumstances look like, you can take God at His word (Deuteronomy 7:9). When the spirit of doubt comes in, it brings its closest kin, disobedience.

When we don’t trust God and take Him at His word, we will not follow His instructions. If God tells you to quit your job and move across the country to another state, do not question God about provision. Jesus will not send us places or give us instruction without the resources or people in place. Fear also damages our bodies. It causes ulcers, weakens the immune system, damages the cardiovascular system, brings about premature aging and early death (Delagran, Louise, MA, Med, author of,  “Impact of Fear and Anxiety,” from the Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing of the University of Minnesota).

Just imagine how many opportunities, relationships, and blessings we’ve missed out on because we have allowed fear to constrict us. Jesus does not want us to live in fear. He came so that we may have life and life more abundantly (John 10:10).

If you are guilty of living in fear or have been fearful, repent. Asks Jesus to forgive you for not agreeing with His word – be strong and of good courage, be not afraid, neither be dismayed: for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9). If fear has a stronghold on you, then fast and pray (Mark 9:29). Find a scripture that speaks to your circumstance and start speaking over yourself and to your circumstances. Post the scripture throughout your home. Set a timer on your phone to remind yourself when to say the scripture.

Remember, ladies, “People that love freedom will, in the end, be free,” Simón Bolívar. So let’s walk in the spirit of liberty (Galatians 5:1), power, love, and of a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).

 

XOXO,

 

Jay

 

Come to the Table Expecting to Feast

 

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over (Psalm 23:5).

Jesus wants to do exceeding and abundantly above all that we can think or ask (Ephesians 3:20), but we tie His hands. Religion has taught us not to expect anything else from Jesus beyond His love – this sentiment also implies that we do not understand Jesus’ love for us. It says that Jesus’ love is lacking, insufficient, and void, which is contrary to what the Bible says about the love of the Father (Ephesians 1:13-19). Jesus came so that we might have life and life more abundantly (John 10:10). More abundantly in Greek means excessive, preeminence, or beyond measure. Jesus has prepared a feast of heavenly blessings and natural blessings during our time on earth. However, religion has taught us that if we are suffering, broke down, and destitute (there’s a difference between being poor and poor in spirit), we are closer to God. This belief is also contrary to the Bible (Exodus 23:3, Leviticus 19:15, & Psalm 37:25).

Although there will be tribulations in life, Jesus came that we might have peace in Him. That’s why He instructs us to be of good cheer because He has overcome the world (John 16:33). In Jesus, there is no perpetual suffering. Jesus Himself did not suffer perpetually.

If you have ever said these words, “Jesus, I do not ask for much. I don’t need a big house, fancy car, or luxury; I just want your love. You are all I need,” repent immediately. Because what you are telling Jesus is, “Jesus, I do not want my life to glorify you. I do not want to lift you up so that all men can be drawn unto you.” This expression is not a form of humility but selfishness. You have become self-absorbed with what you want for your life and not what Jesus wants for you. Jesus bought us with a price (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Therefore, our hearts should be open to allow Jesus to bless us any way He sees fit so that others will be drawn unto Him (John 12:32). Otherwise, why do we continue to exist if we refuse God’s love for us and refuse to allow Him to use our lives to glorify Him?

Moving forward, let’s take on the posture of Mary when the angels told her that the Holy Spirit would impregnate her with our Savior and Lord. Her words were, “Be it unto me according to thy word.” (Luke 1:38). So come to God’s table expecting to feast on the blessings that He has prepared for us so that He will get all the glory and draw others to Him.

 

XOXO,

 

Jay

 

If You Don’t Use, You Lose It!

 

Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:28-30).

A wise man once told me that his prayer is that God does not take him until he's maximized his potential here on earth. Every human being has the God-given potential to maximize his or her talent. God expects each of us to use our talents to edify others. And when we become Believers, He expects us to maximize our talents to further His Kingdom by bringing other people to Jesus. Some of us have multiple talents. Jesus expects us to refine and develop our talents. When we put our talents to good use, God will increase our talents. If you have yet to discover your talent is, ask God what you were born to do – your purpose in life. Consider the things people told you you were good at while growing up; things that come naturally to you; maybe they were challenging for others, but you enjoy doing them with ease. What would you enjoy doing for the rest of your life if money was not a factor? What are you passionate about? For those pursuing your talents as a career, expect God to add new skills to the ones you already have. For example, you excel at teaching others. You have been in the field of teaching for several years or more. You continue to seek professional development training to further your craft, so God blesses you with the gift of administration. Your supervisor sees your potential and appoints you to be the chairperson to develop a program to train new teachers. During your tenure as an educator, you have the opportunity to counsel many students about life problems, show them love, compassion, and kindness, be an example of Christ.

Suppose you have been pursuing a career as a salesperson, and you are continuing to struggle with no improvements. You have wondered why your colleagues with the same expertise, education, and skill set surpass you. In that case, this could be that God did not give you the gift of a salesperson. Fret not. Ask God what it is that you were born to do. The quicker you seek out what God has equipped you to do and how you can apply it to His kingdom, the happier you will be.

If you don’t put your talents to good use, God will take them away from you and give them to another person investing their talent. Sitting idle and watching life go by or watching others be successful is not an option. Start with what you have, where you are, then God will give the increase. He’ll send the finances, the people, and the expertise you need to go further.

XOXO,

Jay

He’s Got So Much Love to Give

 

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10).

In the voice of Barry White, Jesus has so much love; it’s going to take our lifetime and eternity for us to see that He has so much to give. He doesn’t want us to worry, to be sad, angry, or fearful. He doesn’t want us to focus on our circumstances, what was, or what could be. Jesus wants us to be present, enwrapped in His love. He doesn’t want us to go through the changes that we put ourselves through.

Jesus wants us to trust Him. And when things seem not to work out in our favor, remember that everything is working together for our good, for those that love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

Jesus’ love is different from any love we will ever have. His love changes lives for the better. Jesus’ love restores the brokenhearted and renews the troubled mind. He’s the only one that can restore and fill our hopes and dreams. In Him, we have everything. No one can offer us more than the love He has in store. It’s going to take our lifetime and eternity, just wait and see.

Jesus’ love is a sure thing. Don’t be afraid to let His love flow inside of you.

 

XOXO,

 

Jay