HAPPY 50TH TO ME!!

It's my birthday!! Big deal right? Yes!! But even bigger is the fact that it's my 50th birthday!!
Now I could go on and on about how young I look for 50 (LOL) and maybe even talk about the things I have accomplish in my 50 years, or about how I don't look 50, or about how old my young children make me feel sometimes, because I had kids later in life, or about how young I look for 50 or about the things I have yet to accomplish in my remaining years or about how great I look for 50. Instead I will focus this blog on how much God's has done for me in this half a century AND about how great I look for 50! Lol!
While several scriptures come to mind, as I think about this day, I will share just a few of my top ones, as it pertain to how much God has done for me in these 50 years. I have slightly edited one word in the following verse, to fit my case more specifically:
1. I have been young, and now am old(er); yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. (Psalms 37:25)
In this short span of time, 50 years, by comparison to how old David may have been when he wrote this, I can also say with confidence, this can serve as the theme verse for my life. In just the last 7 years, I have become a single parent, having lost a marriage that I thought would go til death or rapture, lost a job that I was sure to be the career from which I'd retire, suffered great financial hardships, from which I continue to climb from under today, and wavered in my trust in God to supply all that my children and I need to survive. However, more importantly, in my 50 years, I have been protected, provided for, comforted, encouraged and saved by Grace, by an Almighty God, who was not surprised or caught off guard by any of my woes.
Through all my struggles, He was there. In my doubt, He was there, in my fear and uncertainty, He was there, when I failed and fail  Him, he was and is there, when I complained, He was there. Still today, on my 50th birthday, He continues to be there.
Somehow, and those of you who are familiar with the God I serve, can understand what I mean when I say, SOMEHOW, all that I have needed, His hand hath provided, Great is His faithfulness unto me.
When I lost my job, my bills, though sometimes paid late (LOL) never went unpaid. My children and I never went hungry. My mortgage continued to be paid, through so many doors He opened. Today, the job I have, is not what I set out to do careerwise, but God opened this door and, not only do my children get to attend one of the greatest schools there is, but my job allows me the opportunity to impart into the world's next generation, all while being near my kids. And although, I don't necessarily get to be a writer as a career, I get to write really long Facebook post like this, from time to time (LOL).
In my 50 years, I can proudly say I am a Veteran, having retired from the greatest branch there is, ARMY, after honorably serving 23 years!
I have been blessed with two beautiful children, who often give me a run for my mental money. Lol! They are both smart, intelligent children, but most importantly, they have both given their lives to Christ. That was my biggest desire where my children were concerned. Now, on to living it out and going to college of course … Lol.
As of my more recent blessings, I have embarked on a new (old) relationship, which has made me so very happy. It feels good to be loved and important, after a long stretch of “All about my kids.” You single parents will understand that. As we take it one day at a time, I look forward to getting to know him again and simply enjoying time with him. And maybe even….
As I look back over these 50 years, I can attest to the fact that trusting God has been my sanity container. Yes, I have wavered in my faith. I have been fearful that things were not going to be OK. But, in every situation, circumstance, trial or tribulation, God has NEVER moved. When things don't seem to be going the way I think they should, I need only trust Him, which brings me to my final birthday verse, my favorite Scripture, mainly because I have to remind myself of it so much on this journey called life:
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:5‭-‬6)
If you've read this far, thank you! Just wanted to share my thoughts on this important day! And let's not forget share how young I look for 50. LOL!!!

Happy Proverbial Mother's Day

Being a Mother is by far the most difficult job there is, in my opinion. It is often a thankless job and one without monetary benefits. With motherhood, small pay comes throughout the life of the child in the form of obedience, educational accomplishments, Godly character qualities, future career accomplishments, family life, etc. However, mothers often don’t see the fruits of their motherly labor until decades later.

And while mothers love and nurture their children from day one, Charles Stanley says, “The greatest gift a mother can give her children is her example of love and obedience to God.”

Often time we think the significance of a mother is rooted in our time as children, but as adults, we still need our mothers. We still need their unconditional love, their support, their encouragement, their godly wisdom and their ability to tell us the truth in love, even when it hurts.

Now I realize that I am the next generation to take of the mantle of motherhood. I must strive to be the godly mother God has commanded me to be. I must study God’s Word, believe His Word, Live His Word and Share His Word. Those of us with children must now pass on godly wisdom. Despite what was done right or wrong during our childhood, we as Women of God are called to “come out from among them and be separate.” We can’t allow our children to be lost in the shuffle of, “let them find themselves,” or the “freedoms rooted in sinful lifestyles,” or the most infamous idea of being your child's friend to gain their love and respect.

In our daily lives as Godly Mothers, we should strive to be Proverbial women. While we often hear the verses read, what do they actually mean to us? She is an honorable woman, a righteous woman, she cares for the things of, and people in her household. She is a hard-WORKING woman. She is never idle, always finding something of godly substance to do.
At the end of the day, being a mother may be the hardest job, but it is definitely the most rewarding. As I watch my two children grow and learn, I see that, although sometimes I think they are not listening and learning what I'm teaching, they are in fact doing just that. I watch them show godly character in situations and show love towards others and I can't help but say, Thank you Lord for the opportunity to instill in them what I received from my mother, a life lived for God's glory.
Today, and all other days, let's be found Proverbial! It is my prayer that today will only be a glimpse of how amazing you are.

New love found only in Christ

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:11‭-‬13 NKJV
I’ve heard this verse a lot over the years, from it being preach over the pulpit, to it being a memory verse for my kids in school, to people just generically quoting it as an inspirational word from the Lord just for them. But let me take a moment to tell you what it means to me at this time in my life.
If I may continue on my transparent journey – Often, as of lately, I struggle with loneliness. I long for conversation about basically anything, but to include my thoughts and feelings on anything and everything. As a parent I am concern for the needs of my children, and rightfully so, they are my responsibility. But there comes a time in my day-to-day when I simply want to say - in my Color Purple voice to Harpo - “What about me?” You Color Purple fans will get that. Lol!
If I'm may continue in my honesty, I don't think I have ever experienced true relationship love – the kind between a man and a woman. I have yet to witness the sacrificial love described in Scripture. The hard love found in the pit of your stomach and the ache in your chest kind of love.
I've had the “cry your eyes out, why is he leaving me,” the “why doesn't he show me he loves me,” the “who is she love,” and the  “I want a divorce love,” but never the unconditional love, “anything for you, for us” kinda love. Yes, I know God loves me, unconditionally and sacrificially. But, without going into details, you know what I'm talking about. That being said, let me stay on topic.
Everyone God created, He created with purpose. God knew His plan and purpose for us before the foundation of this world. With that in mind, I strive daily to stay within His will and plan for my life, and no, I'm not always successful in the run of a day. This verse says his thoughts of me are of peace and not of evil:
He wants me to be at peace in my mind and in my body and in my spirit. How do I get that peace? Philippians 4:6-7 tells me if I'm anxious for nothing, but pray about everything, letting the Lord know my heart with thankfulness for what He has done and is doing, ask Him for what I need, THEN I can have that peace that passes all understanding. AND that peace will keep my heart and mind through Christ Jesus.
Next, He wants to give me a future and a hope.
The future He desires(ed) for me can be, and has been at times delayed, off track, or on hold, simply because I chose to not obey. I either wavered in my faith about what He said he would supply and attempted to HELP God supply my needs or my wants, which I described as needs, in the hopes that he would supply them if I labeled them correctly.
The Bible says in Hebrews 11, faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
In order for God to give me the desires of my heart – a sincere, godly relationship - I must be found in His will for my life. I must seek him with my whole heart and the desires of my heart will match what He has for me. I must stop wavering in my faith because I don't see it happening when I think it should.
The last portion says, Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.
If a godly relationship it what I want, THEN I must ask Him for it, trust Him for it and then Obey Him for it.
If you've ever read my writings, you know me to be good for saying trust God and Obey God. Today, I need you to tell me this. If you have my number text it to me, email it to me, Facebook it to me. Hold me accountable to God's will for my life. If He desires me to have another relationship, pray that I will truly WAIT on Him, trust Him and Obey Him.
Although my true friends list is short, I know I have a few people out there who truly love me and care for me and want the best for me - God's best - that is. Hold me accountable to GOD, my faith walk, my obedience journey.
If you've read this far, I thank you in advance for your support and for your prayers.

Hold your children accountable

Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.  Proverbs 20:11

In other words, a tree is known by it’s fruit, and a man by his doings.
As a parent it can be difficult to discern what we should and when we should expose our children to certain things. But what I have learned and witnessed over the years, from childhood to parenthood is, the Word of God holds no punches when it comes to telling the truth, even to children. Now you’ve heard me say often, that the Bible has an answer for everything we face in life. But here’s the trick, you ready, we have to open the Bible to get those answers. And so it is with children. We adults are always saying they are too young for this or that, but in the Bible, children are taught from very young ages what God requires of them, how they are to treat their parents, those in authority and each other. I mean hey, there was a king who was 8 years old. It also shows consequences from wrong actions. We are living in a sin sick world – just spend 5 minutes watching the days headlines. Without God’s Word for guidance, the world will chew us up and spit us out. No one is doing your child a favor if you allow them to grow up thinking the world owes them something. They should be taught to respect authority, from parents to teachers, to pastors and their elders. They should also be told when they actions bring about bad results, as well as good. I won’t even tell you about the kids and the bear in the bible, for fear that you will think I’m condoning that extent of punishment. I’m not, just saying it is OUR, THE ADULTS, responsibility to teach children that they actions, good or bad have consequences. They need to witness the results of their actions aka those consequences.
My children are 10 and 7, and I hold no punches when it comes to telling them and showing them the consequences of their actions. Whether they disrespect me, their teacher or anyone else in authority. When they are unkind to friends or classmates at school. No matter what, I don’t allow it to slide, because one day they will slide into adulthood and disrespect others and possibly lose great advantages and opportunities,  like disrespecting their first boss and getting fired, simply because we weren’t parent enough or authority enough to tell them the truth when we had the chance.
If you have children or work with children, don’t take that privilege for granted. Don’t miss an opportunity to impart into a child’s life with life long results. Stop saying what’s too much for them to know and see. Please, many of them already know and see more than we think. Equip them & prepare them to be the respectable and productive next generation.
Stop ignoring the gigantic white elephant in the room, and address it head-on,  with the Word of God.

My Black History Moment

My Moment in Black History read at my church, Lakewood Church International on February 12, 2017.

When I was asked to do a black history moment I asked myself, “Who will I read about?” The list was extremely long and the accomplishments of my people have been enumerable. So, I decided that since I am a writer and I know a little about black history, being black and all – that I’d write something.

Over the centuries, we, as a people, have had many names or labels, if you will, since unintentionally landing here on this “stolen” land called America. Those names have included Africans, niggas, specks, spooks, baboons, negro, colored, black and, of course, our most recent politically correct label, African-American.

Over those same centuries, we have been enslaved, beaten, killed, and abused to levels I dare not mention in this setting. And still, despite our battered, bruised, beat down and despised history, we have made some significant contributions to history.

For example, as a published African-American author, I can appreciate the sacrifices made by such people as Phillis Wheatley, the first African-American poet and the first African-American woman to publish a book.

Garrett Morgan, an African-American, was the inventor of the first traffic signal.

Daniel Hale Williams, a black man, performed the first open heart surgery in 1893.

Or there’s Sojourner Truth, who was born Isabelle Baumfree. She changed her name when she began traveling the country preaching God’s Word. She also spoke out against slavery and fought for women’s rights.

And there’s Dred Scott, a slave who was bold enough to sue his owners for his freedom in 1843. The case went as far as the Supreme Court. Although the Justices said Scott could not sue because he was black, he was eventually given his freedom by his owner’s son.

Then there’s Rosa Parks, the hard working, tired African-American woman, who simply wanted to rest on her ride home from a long day of work. Parks, who refused to give up her seat for a white man, was arrested. Her bravery and the hateful actions of others led to a bus boycott like never seen before. This boycott led to the desegregation of public transportation.

And let us never forget an accomplishment, many doubted would ever happen in our lifetimes, President Barack Obama, an African-American, a black man, serving as Commander-in-Chief. The President of the United States, The leader of the free world.

Although the accomplishments are many in BLACK history – there is the most important history we can all celebrate in the house of the Lord. This knowledge does not lessen the fact that I am black history. We are black history. But more importantly, we are RED history, for we have been washed in the blood of Jesus Christ. I am WHITE because his RED blood has washed me whiter than snow. We are no longer defined by the color of my skin, for MY GOD doesn’t look at the outward appearance. He looks at our hearts.

So today, I can add to the list given above – my most important and everlasting name – REDEEMED!

May we as a people never forget where we came from. But most important, be sure of WHERE you are going!

Happy Black History Month 

Be ye kind while Keepin’ it 100!

So, in the distance I hear my children arguing with each other. After hearing both sides of the issue, we quoted together the Scripture which speaks of “being kind one to another...” I had them repeat it several times. I had them look into each other’s eyes and quote it, and we moved on.

So, about an hour later, I hear my children arguing again. I ask, “Are you being kind to one another?” My daughter, aka “all mighty mouth Trinity,” says, “Kinda.”

I reply, the Bible says Be Ye Kind, not Kinda.

Now, my children are 7 and 9, and while they are extremely smart (no really, I’m not just bias) they are still learning the significance of taking GOD at His Word and simply put – OBEYING IT.

Unfortunately, there are many Bible-believing adults who do the same thing as my children did, justify their actions or partially obey the Bible, to make their actions not seem so severe or wrong. So, I guess Trinity could have meant “Kinda, since we haven’t physically hurt each other yet.”

I’ll tell you like I tell my children - partial action is no action, partial truth is a lie, partial obedience is disobedience.

My whole point of this blog is this – as a whole, we need to be a kinder people. Now, I’m the last person to squash anybody’s feelings or thoughts and the freedom to express them, because I LOVE to tell what I think about any given issue. As this generation puts it “Keepin it 100!” However, there is a way to express your views, thoughts, beliefs and opinions, while respecting others views, thoughts, beliefs and opinion. Showing respect does not mean you agree with them or condone their actions or lifestyles.  

I have spent many days in my 48 years around unkind, mean and thoughtless people. There are some harsh, unkind things that have been done to me and said to me over the years that some still sting today in my thoughts.

But, I vow to not be such a person, as I know how it effects those who have had to deal with it – whether in a relationship, a work environment or in and around the community.

Don’t get me wrong, I AM NOT asking you to make a new year’s resolution. We should resolve to be kind year-round, why wait until a new year comes. If that’s the extent of its importance, then as sure as that New Year’s diet will end by Feb. 1, so will your resolution to be kind.

So, I encourage you to do as I will continue to have my children do – quote Ephesians 4:32 - And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

Be NOT conformed to this world

Today's sermon was very fitting for today's headlines. "There is still Hope." As we look at the tragic and often grusome headlines and wade our way through the event "Formerly known as the presidential campaign," we tend to lose hope of there ever being a REAL change for the betterment of this country. The Scripture was Genesis 18:23-33 when Abraham was asking God if he would spare Sodom and Gomorrah from destruction if he could find as little as 10 righteous people in the city. Abraham was interceding in prayer for the city. The point was brought across that Lot, a righteous man (and nephew to Abraham), lived in the city that was to be destroyed by God and yet he had made no impact on anyone outside his family to bring them to a relationship with God. I guess his light wasn't shining too bright. Thus the mere 4 people who got out! Many of us today, go about our lives - our CHRISTIAN lives - never once sharing the Gospel or the love of Christ with anyone. Truth be told, many of our close aquaintances don't even know we are Christians. It was also brought out that many Christians have allowed themselves to be conformed to the world's way of thinking and living, as opposed to leading anyone to Christ. Now, how is it fitting for today, you ask. No sooner I had left church, I received some disturbing news about a local church that is allowing God to be mock in His house. A people who is blatantly ignoring God's word and allowing people in positions of leadership who are unqualified, by God's standards, to stand before God's people. After today's sermon, and even more so after receiving this news, I realized how important it is for us to also intercede in prayer for others. Others include our future president, whomever that may be, and everyone in positons of leadership around this country. This blog, however, focuses specifically on the leadership in the Church. By Church I mean God's people. Not God's creation, because that's everyone. But those who say they have accepted Christ as Savior. Churches today have lost their desire to serve God at all cost, and instead are embracing the world's lifestyles and beliefs and allowing them to bring those lifestyles into places of worship and stand before God's people in positions of leadership. I believe that everyone, no matter what kind of lifestyle you are living, should be allowed to attend a Bible believing and bible teaching church. God did say love everyone and that Christ came for the sick not the well. If you keep the sick out of the hospital, how do they get better? How else will they learn God's Word and allow it to change them. However, when the church, GOD'S PEOPLE, ignores the WORD OF GOD, which is clear on what God says is sin and an abomination, and allow a person openly living outside of God's Will to stand before God's people - that is SAD. Don't misunderstand me, sin is sin across the board. If a person is shacking, they should not be in a position of leadership in the church, If a person is fornicating, they should not be in a position of leadership in the church. If a person is committing adultry, they should not be in a position of leadership in the church. If a person is living a transgender or homosexual lifestyle, they should not be in a position of leadership in the church. No matter the sin, they should be seated in the pew to learn God's Word and Way, so when they decided to change they will know just HOW to go about it. I am appaud and sadden because this news hit close to home today. I was sadden because I know there are those in this church who are keeping silent to keep the "peace." Know that there is NO PEACE with out Christ. Know that your silence is also condoning. Remember, the safest place in the whole wide world is in the WILL of God. I am and will continue to intercede on behalf of those who seem to have lost their way.
Be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2

UnSung pays tribute to my brother NOT YOU!

This is probably gonna sound harsh, but here goes. I’ll start by saying this – I love everybody. As a Christian (Christ-like), I am commanded to love. I chose to love. But at the same time, I have found that the people you love the most are often the ones who are the most selfish and unkind. Many of you saw the UnSung episode last night about my brother Buddy, aka Nate Dogg. Most everyone sent words of encouragement, kindness, continued prayers or just to say the show was well done. However, there were a few who saw this as your moment to shine, if we had somehow found a way to mention you. Did I mention this was a show about my brother? Here are some of the questions that were asked: When did he start singing? That answer would be, as a kid alongside his brother, Samuel Hale and sister Pamela Hale. Another question: what inspired his love of singing? That answer went something like this: we grew up in the church, our Dad was the Pastor and our mother, who came from a singing family,  started us singing together as a trio. Another, why do you think he decided to eventually start a gospel choir? Answer: He loved his mother and he really, at some point, wanted to return to the music he loved and to do music his mom and dad could listen to. Again, did I mention this was a show about my brother? Some of you are upset because somewhere in this short timeframe, in which they interviewed some 15-20 other people, you wanted your name squeezed in there. Again, did I mention this was a show about my brother? It was about his life in the music industry, so that brought in the questions and answers about his singing. There are even those who wanted credit for being there for him during the latter years of his life. Well, just in case there is any confusion, my mother was there day in and day out to care for his needs and to see that he was cared for. If you want credit for that, sorry, I don’t recall seeing you there.
Funny thing is, my brother had stopped talking to some of you groupies before his illness, so to wait until he’s gone to say things like, I really loved him and I really miss him and we had a lot of “us time together,” is a lie and you know it.,

If this post causes some to unfriend me, so be it. That simply means your motives for being my friend or for wanting your name mentioned, in an hour-long segment, was for selfish gain anyway, so bye!  The show was not about you, it was not about me, it was not about my mother, or any other family member who wanted air-time. It was about BUDDY, NATE DOGG, NATE, NATHANIEL. Get over it and move on. Am I angry, you ask. Yes, just a bit. I am sick and tired of people wanting to only be affiliated with you if you are connected to or related to a celebrity. I’m just me. Me mentioning your name won’t get you any kind of financial gain or social status. I’m just Pammy from the block. :) TO ALL: LOVE, PEACE AND THE SOULFUL SOUND OF NATE D-O DOUBLE  G!

Forgiveness works both ways!

I’ve been told throughout my Christian life that forgiveness was never about the other person, but about me and my ability to forgive so that I could move forward. To this day, I still agree with that statement, for I am a living witness that for a time my unwillingness to forgive an offense many years ago stagnated my Christian life and I became entangled in a life of sin. When I was finally willing to forgive, I was released from that bondage and was able to move forward to mature in my life, both physically and spiritually.

But, this blog is not about forgiving, it’s about the offender asking forgiveness. So often offenses are swept under the rug in hopes that we can pretend nothing happened and continue on as usual. Well, I have finally gotten SICK AND TIRED of it! Especially in the Christian church.

This is aimed more at the Christian community – those who follow the teachings of Christ. When you offend your brother and sister in Christ, yes they should forgive you - even if you don’t ask for forgiveness. But, at the same time, if you KNOW that you've offended others with your words, actions or attitudes, take responsibility for your actions and ASK FORGIVENESS! Stop giving excuses like, I wasn’t myself when I did that or even, they deserved it. According to Scripture, out of the heart the mouth speaks. Oftentimes when one responds in a hurtful way in hast and anger their TRUE feelings toward you come out.

Second thing, when you ask forgiveness, refrain from saying, “I’m sorry.” or “IF I offended anyone….”

Those who are sorry are generally just sorry they got caught. And those who say. “if I offended,” KNOW that they have, but for some reason those words make them feel less guilty of their actions. Admit you were WRONG and ask for forgiveness.

Let’s all MAN UP & WOMAN UP. Unfortunately, we are going to offend and hurt others- it’s that flesh, that sinful nature. But Greater is HE who lives on the inside of us. ASK FORGIVENESS AND FORGIVE!

For those who are wondering who offended me to the point that brought on this blog? That’s not important. Just know that I have forgiven, but I am just bother by the reoccuring fact that, as in this case, offenders often fail to come back, take responsibility for what they’ve done to hurt and ask forgiveness. 

Experience an Extreme Makeover in Christ!

Are you so overwhelmed with life’s struggles that you feel emotionally drained, overworked, under-appreciated, mistreated or just plain insignificant? Well, as children of God we are significant to Him. But, in order to walk in that significance we must know what He says about us and what our responsibilities are as his ambassadors. We are called to be the light of the world. We are called to love God and others unconditionally. However, we cannot do this unless we are made new in Christ and renewed in His Word daily. This can and will take place when we experience an Extreme Makeover in Christ!

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2. Cor. 5:17

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2

#extrememakeover 

Deny the one who gives me life? I don't think so.

My family was recently invited to sing at a CITY-WIDE event. Coordinator's were "looking for "Gospel" singers." Upon receiving further information, we were told that in our GOSPEL songs we COULD NOT mention God or Jesus, as not to offend anyone. Really? For years I have heard that - how exactly does mentioning God or Jesus offend anyone. When was the last time an atheist was told not to publicly say he was an atheist as not to offend, or an homosexual, or for that matter an other belief or lifestyles choices? I am of the belief that it's because at the name of JESUS, and no other name, every knee SHALL bow and every tongue SHALL confess and apparently that scares some. JESUS is the one person who can make a eternal difference in your life.
These city officials who are responsible for our tax DOLLARS, which bear the name God, wants to eliminate his name in a song. Wow!
Do they not know what the word Gospel means to GOSPEL singers - let me help - the good news of Jesus Christ.
To say the least, we declined the godless invitation and eagerly await one where the name of Jesus can be magnified.

GO BACK AND SAY THANK YOU!

Luke 17:11-19 tells the parable of the 10 lepers healed by Jesus. Lepers were considered UNCLEAN and were kept away from others because of their disease.

Jesus merely told them to “Go show yourself to the priest.” This statement alone should have told them they had been healed or that he was going to heal them at some point, since they were not to be around others, but yet he was sending them to the priest.

In route to show themselves to the priest, each of them noticed they had been cleansed. However, of the ten, ONLY ONE returned to say, “Thank you Jesus.”

Each day, God blesses us – with His grace, His mercy, life, health – always supplying the needs of His children. His ultimate gift to everyone was his Son Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection - for our sins. Knowing this fact, how often do we show ourselves to the world?

Let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father, which is in heaven. (Matt. 5:16)

How often are we telling them what God has done for us and what trust in Christ can do for them?
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)
Lastly, how often do we simply tell him, Thank You?
Give thanks unto the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people. (1 Chronicles 16:8)

O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth forever.
 (1 Chronicles 16:34)

If you didn’t know it - Without Christ, we are nothing, nada, zilch.

Often, in the busyness that is life, we can take on a mentality that God is SUPPOSE to do all that He does for us. We see his blessings and his provisions as his responsibility, without giving much thought to showing him the gratitude He deserves.

In order to thank Him, one need not think so big. The next time you inhale and exhale – yes, like right now – Say Thank You, because He didn’t have to do it – but He did!

God is STILL God, sin is STILL sin

It's been said on several occasions as an excuse to LIVE HABITUALLY in sin that God knows/sees your heart NOT your issues. I beg to differ based on the WORD of God which DOES say God looks at the heart, but which also says "Out of the HEART flow the issues of Life." This makes it impossible to separate your ISSUES, aka SINS, from your heart.

If your life is out of line with the word of God, which is NEVER vague in God's feelings about sin, then you are treading on dangerous ground, especially if you claim to be His child. 

Stop whimping out with "I ain't perfect and I'm only human." God is well aware of who you are, he created you. He says "Be ye Holy, for I am Holy." Perfection is NOT the goal of a child of God, holiness is, and last I read, SIN of any kind, is NOT holy. Holy does not mean living an habitually sinful life, while believing God is OK with it because you have confessed it. 

According to Scripture, These are indeed the last days. It's evident all around us. Itching ears are being scratched in the four walls of the church. People are living in sin and lashing out when God's ppl tell them the truth. GOD told us to tell you. there's a difference between telling you the truth of God's Word and judging you. Trust that God ain't playing around. He has not and will not change. Continue to Interpret the Scripture to fit your mud puddle and you'll regret it. 

I'm So tired of those who use the fact that God is love to convince themselves that their lifestyle of sin is condoned by Him. Yes, He is love, but he is also Just, sovereign, and he HATES sin any which way you put it. 

DON'T JUST STAND THERE, PRAY SOMETHING!

 I read this this morning in a YouVersion devotion 

This is what it means to me in my life at this moment in time. 

There are times throughout our short existence when it's seems we are aboard a ship being tossed to and fro by the turbulent winds of our situation. While I've known it for years, I am now more frequently living out my faith by trusting the ONE who made the sea, the only ONE who can calm the sea. 

Come what may - and trust me  it has, is, or will come - keep your eyes upon Jesus. Cry out to Him as Peter did when he began to sink. Put your UNWAVERING faith in Him, no matter how bad your circumstance may be. If you are His child, He's got you.

Faith is the substance of things HOPED for, the evidence of things NOT seen. Heb. 11:1

Mother - the ultimate role model

Brenda hasn't seen her five children in a year. Actually, this 35-year old mother only gets to see her kids once a year. You see, she is serving an 11-year sentence for arson in a California prison.
Visually, nothing about Marlene says mother. With here tattoo-covering arms, neck and chest, the 24-year old - simply put - looks hard. Her short life has been a whirlwind in and out of trouble. Her latest crime - robbery, has landed her in a state prison for six year. That will be two more years away from her 4-year-old son.
A week ago, I visited a women's prison with an organization that takes kids to visit their incarcerated parents.
As I watched these women nervously pace the floor, fix their hair and anxiously watch the security door through which their children would enter, I found myself pitying them. Although they were women who had been convicted of serious crimes, they were mothers. Mothers who loved their children, but whose very bad choices had taken away their privilege to raise them, spend time with them or even something as simple as read them a bedtime story.
At the sight of the children, dozens of mothers smiled and cried as they moved anxiously toward the door to greet their children.
And so began the clock. Four hours - that's right, four hours was all they had to spend with the children, who many of them had not seen in as long as two years. Mothers led children to tables filled with arts and crafts, where the children would draw pictures for their mothers. Others played board games, while still others played on the fenced in playground topped with barbed wire.
Finally came that dreaded moment - saying goodbye. The laughter stopped and the tears again began to flow as mother and child embraced.
As a mother, it's hard to fathom being away from my two children for years. Often I find myself missing them during the few hours in a school day.
For these incarcerated mothers, time has allowed many of them to assess the effects of their actions.  In the quietness of their cells many have accepted their punishment,  taking full responsibility for their crimes.
As a mother, do you sometimes find yourself taking for granted the time you spend with your children? Have you forgotten the importance of your role as a mother?
A mother not only disciplines her children when they do wrong, thus teaching them the consequences of their actions, she loves unconditionally, values the special moments, encourages and compliments her child(ren).
So, mothers, the next time you look at your child, think about the importance of the impact you have in what that child will become. Search the Scriptures for God's instructions on rearing children. I encourage a daily read of the Proverbs. Live a godly-life before them so that your light leads them to Christ. Never underestimate the knowledge a child has where The Lord is concerned.
Take a minute to think about the incarcerated mothers, many of whom are longing to hold their child, to spend time with them and to teach them right from wrong.
Often, mothers are the epitome of the following Army motto: we do more before 6 in the morning than some people do all day. Make sure that what you do in the run of a day counts in the long run....eternity.

The PEACE of God

I've been having some trying times over the last year or so - scraping around trying to find that thing that any average person wishes for in their everyday life - PEACE. 

One would think as a Bible-believing Christian - I say that because there are those who identify themselves as Christians who don't believe the Bible to be true - I would be quite familiar with the one and only Almighty God who possesses the peace I so desperately need everyday.

Well, actually I am. However, there are times, like in recents months, when I have totally allowed others and different circumstances to invade my peaceful place. 

I've shed more tears than I care to mention, for fear that I may hear the distant chants of my childhood, "cry baby, cry baby." Anybody remember that? Anyway, enough of that.

I am extremely thankful to God for surrounding me with people who refuse to jump in the pity party ditch with me, but who remain on the outskirts of that, often deep place, with a life preserve of Scripture to save me from drowning in my sorrows.

One Wednesday, in a mere effort to appease my 5-year old daughter, I attended Bible study at @Cottonwoodchurch. She has missed her children's church so much. There was a guest minister @mikekeyes who spoke on Peace. Who knew, but God, that I needed that sermon. 

He shared several Scriptures on the peace of God, all of which, in my 44 years in the church, I had heard. But somehow it hit me in such a way I found myself in tears as I listened to God speak directly to me, never mind the other few hundred people who were there. 

I was reminded that I and I alone had been ALLOWING people and circumstances to rob me of my peace. No more. Enough is enough! I will trust God, despite the circumstances that surround me and rise up to taint my character, my worth and my dignity. I will trust God, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made, marvelous are his works and it's time my soul acknowledges that. 

If you have allow people and/or your circumstances to rob you of your joy and your peace - whether it's work, family or life in general - cast those cares at the feet of Jesus and trust him at his word. Study his word. Draw nigh to God, resist the devil and he will, he has to flee!

I don' t know about you, but I'm getting my joy and my peace back. The Joy of The Lord is my strength and the peace from God surpasses ALLLLL understanding.

I'm almost 44 NOT 4!

Now I know I harp a lot about not liking it when someone treats me like a child, but so what, here I go again.
Do you ever find yourself surrounded by people who act as if you were either born yesterday or simply have no idea what you're doing, even though you've been doing it for years? I do.
Without calling any names I'd like to just say this; if I do something differently from the way you would do it, it doesn't make if WRONG, it just makes it DIFFERENT, so stop suggesting I change the way I do it.
Not liking the way I do something also does not make it wrong, it just makes it not the way YOU would have done it, so stop suggesting I change the way I do it.
After 23 years in the military, you would think civilians would respect you for having stood in the gap for their freedoms and trust you know what you're doing for the most part and let you be. NOT SO!
I am in no way saying that I'm right in the way I do all things. What I am saying though is, don't try to teach me in a condescending way. I am NOT a child! Speak to me with respect and in turn I just may listen to your advice or suggestions. Don't scold me like you gave birth to me. I have parents, neither of which I allow to tell me what to do or to talk to me like I'm their child again. I can often to heard telling my mom my age, as if to say, "I'm old enough to do what I want." With her, however, I remain in a tone of joking because I know, at even my age, saying the wrong thing could get me hurt. With EVERYONE else however, I mean it. I ain't your child and I don't appreciate being treated like one. Don't talk down to me like I'm stupid. The era of Roots and the "Yesir Master, is over. My name is still Kunta Kinte, not Toby. If what I am is not WRONG, Stop trying to conform me to what you would have me to be.   Nuff Said! Maybe.

Military Retirement: Oh Happy Day!

After 23 years, I'm finally done! I was 19 when I joined the Army in 1988. I grew up and learned to be responsible quite fast. I traveled and went to one "war" while on active duty. In 1992, I left active duty at the age of 24, ready for the world, I thought. But less than 24 hours after I returned home, duffle bag still in the living room floor, the Rodney King Riots broke out. I questioned if I should have come home at all. I was really torn for some time after that. I mean, you expected to fight the enemy. You know you need to watch your back with them, but here I was looking out my front window watching my neighbors burn down our neighborhood. I didn't get it, and in that moment I really toyed with the idea of turning around and going back into active military.
But I didn't. I did, however, remain in the Army Reserves, where I attended weekend drills and continued to be "on standby" for my active duty comrades for the next 20 years. Thankfully, that never happened.
On March 15, 2012, I officially became a member of the Retired Army Reserves. Oh what a happy day. Don't get me wrong, I never hated the military. I got tired of it from time to time. I dreaded possibly being deployed again, but being in the military taught me so much and over the years I was blessed to met some amazing people, who are still my friends today.
In fact, just this past weekend, April 14-15, I was blessed to be able to travel to Huntsville, Al., to hang out with some of those military friends. It had been 20 years since I'd seen any of them. We all served together at Ft. Ord, Ca. and in Operation Desert Shield/Storm in Saudi Arabia. With these guys I can truly say I've developed a bond that will last a lifetime.
Even after seeing them for the first time in two decades, we fell back into the comfortable groove of friendship, as if we were picking up where we left off. Thank God for FaceBook, for it was there where I found most of them again.
For two days, 1 1/2 for me, because I spent most of my first day in the Chicago airport, (that's another blog) we sat around and remembered all the good times, the bad times, the bad things and the good things we did those many years ago. It was as if, I had never left these guys. They were the same. They were genuine. They were my friends. They are still my friends today. I love these guys. Jimmie Sprague, Kurtrell & Rosa Jackson, Michael Sloss, Dwayne Mayberry and Dave "The Boss" Ross. 8th Evacuation Hospital SUPER 8.

I look forward to getting together again next year.

True friends

True friends are a thing of beauty, but are also very rare. I believe that if we all had just one person in our life not afraid to lovingly tell us the truth about ourselves, and some of the stupid things we do and say, this would be a much better world. Today, I plan to tell the truth, even though I may not be your friend.
While many of us can’t seem to imagine what we’d do without social media, there are times when I wonder if some of us would be better off, maybe even safer without it. With the invention of social media, avenues of communication have expanded beyond what anyone could have ever thought. But, while it can be a good thing, like finding loved ones or friends you haven’t seen in decades, it can also be a reputation buster.

In the three years since I joined FB, I’ve accumulated nearly 700 FB “friends.” If I’m being honest, nearly half appeared when they found out I was #NateDogg’s sister and then only after his death. But, back to the other truths I’m here to share. Unfortunately, I’ve had to UNFRIEND several people for an array of different disrespectful reasons. And my un-friending, has no respect of persons - from blood relatives to people I’ve only known through FB, I can delete you with the best of them. For vulgar language to extremely provocative photos, I MUST delete them for not only my eyesight, but for those of my toddlers, who can often be found on my lap as I browse the computer sites.

I have found myself private messaging to tell others about themselves concerning some of the stupid things they post on Facebook. Why is it so hard to believe that disrespectful decisions, whether to yourself or to others, do come back to bite you in the rear? For example, what happens when that great career opportunity or a relationship possibility comes along and up pops some photo of you half naked in a provocative pose as if you are soliciting yourself on Pacific Coast Highway? Those of you from the #LBC know what PCH is all about.

I just want to take this time to share a few ways to recognize true friends:

1.      They tell you the truth no matter how bad it hurts.

2.      They tell you the truth BEFORE you embarrass yourself in front of thousands.

3.      They tell you the truth to help you avoid the consequences that come with bad decisions.

4.      They tell you the truth, but still love you when you make stupid decisions anyway. J

Now, if you want to know what triggered this blog, all can say is this, If you post a pic of yourself on a social media outlet, looking like you are either stepping onto the Boulevard or on your way there, don’t be surprised about the repercussions sooner or later. And if your “friends” are posting things like, “Girl, you look good,” or “That’s a cute outfit,” or “You are so Fine,” or “You go Girl,” or my favorite, “Sexy,” then you need to rethink those friendships because somebody is lying.

If you’re STILL my FB “friend” meaning, I have not deleted you and, after this you have not deleted me, J and you think I might be talking to you, I probably am.

One of the best things I heard, sometime in my early 20s, after learning for myself that being half naked was NOT sexy, was “there’s a difference between TRASHY AND CLASSY!
Ladies, you got respect yourself before you can expect a REAL MAN to respect you.

Grammy's or Garbage?

Was anybody else as bored as I was watching the Grammy's Sunday night? I mean 3 hours of who knows what. Literally, I didn't know most of the people performing or getting awards. Either I'm old or I'm watching way too much Nick Jr with the kids to notice other things. At times I felt like I was watching the CMAs (Country Music Awards). That means way too much praise for country music when it's suppose to be a diversity of music. Also, I don't feel like African-American, blacks or coloreds, whatever we are at the Grammy's, were represented at all. There was very little Gospel, as if it doesn't sell and very little anything else. Adele sweep the floor with all the American artist. Now, I ain't hating, cause the girl can sing, but it was as if the same 4 or 5 people/bands were nominated in each category.
Who are the people who sit on the board of decision makers and vote for who wins or who performs at the Grammy's? Seriously, what in the world was that mess #NickiMinaj did at the Grammy's? Whoever invited her should have been fired immediately following her exorcism. I mean really? The Grammy's was NOT the setting for that satanic foolishness. That should have been saved for her own personal concert, if she's even good enough to hold her own at a full concert. Doubt it based on that performance. First, I didn't get it. Second, couldn't understand a word of it. And third, I'm sure there were kids watching and attending who didn't need to see that stupidity. And don't get me started on the parents who actually DO let their kids listen to music like that. You ever wonder why little Johnnie is a hellion? And don't try to soothe your conscience by saying "music doesn't make people do stupid things."

Some good things I did like about the Grammys: Bruno Mars' performance was very entertaining. He was like a mixture of Elvis, The Temptations, The Four Tops and James Brown all in one. Jennifer Hudson did an outstanding job on Whitney's tribute song. And I was touched by the fact that they listed my brother #NateDogg among those we lost last year in death. I know, he was known in the music industry, but with all his talent, he didn't get his props while he was living. Some in part to Suge Knight's greed and stupidity, really, how you gonna be a business gangster? You ain't the mafia. You from the hood. Learn how to make money, invest money and give back to those around you. Oh, that's right, it's too late to give him advice, he's broke, busted and disgusted. Now, while much of my brother's music was vulgar and used too much profanity for my personal taste, seeing as how I don't curse anymore, the music industry has yet to embrace good semi clean hip hop or even to take those with true talent, like my brother, under their wings and teach them the ropes of what the big wigs want in the music game.

Well, after 3 hours of that, those are the only things I can truly say I enjoyed. Grammy staffers, you missed the mark this year, really. Better luck next time. You got an entire year to listen to ALL music, despite race, color, creed or genre. Try to make the Grammys look like the melting pot this world really is and get the minority music off the back of the Grammy bus.