Righteous vs Rebellious!

I used to believe that righteousness was synonymous with holiness, a lofty ideal that felt impossibly out of reach. My mind, steeped in a carnal perspective, viewed righteousness almost as a distant star; I could admire it, yet never hope to touch it. The weight of my sins loomed heavy, convincing me that spiritual purity was an unattainable goal for someone like me. It wasn't until I delved into the dictionary that I began to peel back the layers of my misunderstanding. According to Merriam-Webster, "righteous" is acting according to divine or moral law, embodying a state free from guilt or sin, and exhibiting a justifiable moral compass. This definition struck me, yet I still struggled with being free from sin or possessing virtuous morals. It became increasingly clear that my inclination to resist what was right, in favor of what was wrong, was a form of rebellion against God’s commandments, a silent act of defiance that I had failed to recognize until now.

Rebellious was defined as tending to fight against or disobey authority; it suggests being stubborn, defiant, and uncontrollable. This description reflects how I once lived, and in retrospect, I’m ashamed.

I found myself out of alignment with God’s Will, living an imbalanced life that I didn’t fully recognize then. Distractions consumed me—chasing material success, seeking validation from others, and neglecting my spiritual health. In this state of rebellion, I thought I was in control, but the deeper I ventured into this chaotic lifestyle, the more disconnected I felt from my true purpose. It took a moment of reflection and inner turmoil to realize that I had strayed far from the path of peace and fulfillment that comes from living in harmony with divine guidance.

Divine Guidance has been a fundamental aspect of existence since the creation of the Earth. Each day was designed with specific purposes, reflecting a divine order established by God. The sequence of days showcases the potential of creation, highlighting how much can be accomplished within a six-day framework. A seventh day is dedicated to rest and reflection, allowing humanity to express gratitude and recognize achievements throughout the week.

The calendar is also structured to align with the natural cycles of seasons and time, intended to support human life. However, humans have altered these systems throughout history to fit their needs, often deviating from the original divine plan. This deviation can be traced back to the early moments of human existence, where the Fall from Eden symbolizes a departure from divine alignment. The influence of a rebellious angel, Satan, led to the introduction of rebellion into the world and a subsequent misalignment of humanity with God’s intentions. Humans possess the inherent ability to discern between good and evil, yet they chose to disregard this understanding, resulting in a discord with the divine design.

Throughout the Books of the Bible, numerous examples illustrate how the faithful fought against those who opposed God's laws. "righteous" refers to individuals who possess strong moral values, adhere to God's will, and observe His commandments. However, this can also raise questions about judgment, particularly regarding the distinction between those deemed "right" and those who may be perceived as "wrong" and deserving of punishment.

I express this sentiment because it is evident that rebellions are erupting across our nation and around the globe. The tumultuous nature of humanity's defiance against order and authority will persist until we wholeheartedly align ourselves with God's divine will. Amidst this widespread chaos and uncertainty, we must seek clarity, truth, and understanding from the One who graciously imparts wisdom to all who earnestly seek it.

 

Always The Good Shepherd!!!

The other day, as I was darting around town running errands, I couldn’t help but notice the overwhelming gridlock on the roads. It was mid-morning, when you’d expect things to be relatively calm, not the chaotic surge I witnessed. I found myself pondering the origin of all these vehicles and the thoughts swirling in the minds of their drivers. 

Living in a vibrant college town adjacent to a bustling military base means my surroundings are a tapestry of students bustling with ambition and retirees enjoying the leisurely pace of life. The atmosphere is always charged with energy, yet on that day, it felt different—more urgent. 

With massive executive orders looming on the horizon, promising cuts and freezes that will ripple through our community, it struck me that we can’t afford to drive around aimlessly. Each car on the road seemed to carry a purpose, an unsaid mission with a destination etched in mind. Maybe, just maybe, we’re all navigating through the same storm, seeking clarity amid the uncertainty. It shouldn’t surprise anyone that we have more in common than differences. Yet, I feel the one difference that has separated many of us has always been the colors of our skin.

People chase their unique happiness in a free, vibrant nation, driven by personal goals and desires. Yet, in this pursuit, they often set aside the spirit of unity, prioritizing individual satisfaction over collective strength. With these new changes, many see societal alterations that can and will affect us all. Why are our elected leaders not standing up for the people, instead of sacrificing us to the wolves that are foreign and domestic? 

I’m reminded of the biblical verses about the Good Shepherd in John 10. It doesn’t matter which version; they may be written differently but have the same meaning. I’m using the New International Version (NIV).

“11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. 13 The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.”

The Good Shepherd selflessly lays down his life to safeguard his flock, a collection of wandering souls who have strayed, captivated instead by those who chase after their ambitions. This growing distance between the shepherd and his flock paints a poignant picture of alienation. Yet, beneath the shadows of their separation, the Shepherd's sacrifice resonates with profound significance, echoing through the corridors of time. As the seasons change and the years unfold, he will ultimately return, a figure of unwavering authority, to judge the flock with compassion and righteousness for all eternity.

 

 

 

Why Not, We're On the Road To a Breakdown!

            In the current atmosphere, it’s a miracle that people haven’t completely lost their composure in their daily lives. The wave of anger and frustration many of us feel following the recent election is palpable. I genuinely believe that powerful interests manipulated, bought, and paid for the election. The electoral colleges tilted decidedly towards the far-right candidates and were waiting to be exploited for their advantage. We are watching people showing up who they are in real time.

What’s unfolding under this administration, particularly with the barrage of executive orders, should be no surprise to anyone paying attention. After all, we were given ample warnings about the direction things might take. It seems as if we have grown somewhat immune to the political shenanigans and controversies emanating from the highest levels of government, yet this has hardly dulled our sense of dissatisfaction. We are not amused by the lack of transparency, accountability, or genuine leadership we had hoped for during this critical time. In the current atmosphere, it’s nothing short of a miracle that people haven’t completely lost their composure in their daily lives. The wave of anger and frustration many of us feel following the recent election is palpable. I genuinely believe that the election was manipulated, bought and paid for by powerful interests. The electoral colleges tilted decidedly towards the far-right candidates, were waiting to be exploited to their advantage. 

What’s unfolding under this administration, particularly with the barrage of executive orders, should be no surprise to anyone paying attention. After all, we were given ample warnings about the direction things might take. It seems as if we have grown somewhat immune to the political shenanigans and controversies emanating from the highest levels of government, yet this has hardly dulled our sense of dissatisfaction. We are not amused by the lack of transparency, accountability, or genuine leadership we hoped for during this critical time. 

Today marked the climax of a shameful week characterized by embarrassment, humiliation, and apparent bullying from the President and Vice President toward the leaders of England, France, and Ukraine. It begs the question: Why do entitled individuals often behave so foolishly? How can we possibly blame the Ukrainian President for his reluctance to embrace peace when our President seems to dismiss the notion of harmony within our nation? 

The administration may have framed the cacophony of shouting and the uncivil discourse as a robust defense of the nation’s interests. Still, it undeniably resembled a coordinated assault meant to assert dominance over perceived weakness. This so-called weakness surfaced as an inability to convey coherent thoughts, becoming a grotesque display of vitriol from leaders lacking essential diplomacy and respect.

It was a pitiful sight to witness the exchange. Just the day before, at a cabinet meeting, Elon Musk appeared to dominate proceedings, while only a week prior, the President seemed diminished in the Oval Office, overshadowed by Musk and his toddler son during their press engagement. If this was an attempt to project strength following a series of disheartening events, it came across as a cowardly exhibition, lacking substance and gravitas.

Seek First The Kingdom of God!

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33 KJV

    Over time, I learned that certain biblical scriptures fail to resonate with me no matter how often I hear or read them. One day, after reencountering these passages, they finally struck a chord. I truly grasped the meaning of "seeking the kingdom of God." I had finally slowed down enough to let the words sink in and understand their significance. I realize now that I wasn't ready to receive them at first. I was distracted by worldly needs and wants. I was overly focused on fulfilling my physical needs instead of my spiritual needs. It was easier to indulge in these needs now than to think about the eternal consequences.

    Recently, a friend and I engaged in a thought-provoking discussion about the diverse ministries we are called to pursue. It became clear that not everyone is destined to deliver fiery sermons, lead demonstrations, or stand before large audiences to share the Word of God. Consider the apostle Paul, who once fervently persecuted the followers of Christ but transformed into one of the faith's most ardent defenders. In his letters, he profoundly states, “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors, and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” (Ephesians 4:11-12 NIV). Tony is, in my opinion, an excellent college professor who aims to lead young minds to a higher level of thinking. God has placed him in a position of leadership. He has taken his expanded role very seriously. Those of you persevering in toxic work environments, depending on how spirit-minded you are, are ministering through encouraging words and support.

    This highlights that ministry takes many forms. A gentle smile, a compassionate gesture, or a moment of patience can be powerful ministries. By embodying kindness, peace, patience, and love, we can effectively minister to others and play our part in leading them toward the Kingdom of God. Each act of kindness can ripple outwards, inviting others into a deeper understanding of faith and community.

    In these challenging times, it’s undeniable that our morals and beliefs are being put to the ultimate test. The world's weight often makes it seem easier to surrender and retreat into despair, to give in to the temptation of giving up. Yet, deep within each of us lies an unwavering strength, a reservoir of resilience waiting to be tapped. We must reach deep down, summon that inner courage, and forge ahead with determination. Seeking the kingdom of God begins with small steps, one foot in front of the other, one day at a time. Yes, we may stumble and sometimes fall, but we were not meant to stay down or live in shame or regret. Get up, put the past behind us, transform our old way of thinking negatively, and move forward toward salvation.

First Quarter!

Legions of spirits of confusion, division, destruction, deception, liars, and all things opposite of all things good and righteous are running rampant in this world. Look around. We see their disciples carrying out orders. Every day, we wake up to bad news or can’t have a peaceful night of sleep because of it. Countries are at an all-time unrest. Men and women in the church are humiliating each other online and in the sanctuary by calling each other out. People regret their choices, but we can’t turn back the hands of time. Who can we turn to for help? God is not missing. So many people believe that He doesn’t exist. They believe in a demagogue and that God appointed him. They worship what they see.

I was born in the 1950s and have seen people at least tolerate each other because of race relations at that time. I also saw some forward progress in the 60s. In the past three weeks, I have recognized the conditions in the 20s and 30s when my parents were born. I foresee a return to racism, making America ashamed again but this time proud to do so. If it seems that I’m allowing my experience as a template to judge, I am. But it’s wrong. I should use history instead. Throughout all of history in the world, people have fought back against tyrannies and dictatorships. America was built on these causes by immigrants who fled their former countries for a better life. Look at the wars fought in this land and within its borders. We trend in cycles. The underlying truth is that the people stood together on the backs of their ancestors and never gave up.

This election has created significant animosity between different races and even within families. The division has become so pronounced that the phrase “I told you so” has been supplanted by “Mess around and find out.” This isn’t just petty behavior. To those who believe it is, I urge you to learn to respect differing opinions. I refer to this time as the disunification of America. This was a time when we didn’t heed the warnings from others because we placed pride over common sense. When I was growing up, we took threats seriously. If someone disagreed with you outside your home and the argument escalated to the point where the other person said, “Don’t be here when I come back,” it was wise to leave. It’s not a sign of cowardice to walk away; it’s a sign of survival. Too often, people didn’t heed that warning and stayed. Only one remained standing when they returned. Then-candidate Trump warned us, but we didn’t believe him. I’m sure we will now.

What can we do now? We have run out of excuses, and there is no need to look back. When seeking guidance, I turn to God for counsel and advice, trusting He wants the best for me. No need to rush Hm, trust Him. Social media, the news, the internet, and even our friends often prioritize clicks and views fueled by emotional biases. Emotions can cloud our judgment. Pride does not work well with humility. Our fingers are joined to one hand, arm, and body. Our states are connected to one country. We could be an influential collective if we set aside our pride and obstinacy.

While some may disagree or resist compromise, many sensible and rational thinkers have the vision we need. We must align ourselves and prepare for the midterm elections. We must replace those who refuse to compromise and elect new representatives to create change. Until then, let’s join in peaceful boycotts, protests, and demonstrations and make our voices heard by writing to or calling our state representatives. We need to reset, readdress, and regain what we have lost.

Wake Up With Prayers Every Morning!

 I want to share an excerpt from one of my morning prayers I read this morning. It's Psalm 9:13-20 New King James Version. It was appropriate seeing what our nation is going through. We need God through challenging times as well as good times. Never forget where you could have been. Give Him praise where you are now.

¹³ Have mercy on me, O Lord!
Consider my trouble from those who hate me,
You who lift me up from the gates of death,

¹⁴ That I may tell of all Your praise
In the gates of the daughter of Zion.
I will rejoice in Your salvation.

¹⁵ The nations have sunk down in the pit which they made;
In the net which they hid, their own foot is caught.

¹⁶ The Lord is known by the judgment He executes;
The wicked is snared in the work of his own hands.
Meditation. Selah

¹⁷ The wicked shall be turned into hell,
And all the nations that forget God.

¹⁸ For the needy shall not always be forgotten;
The expectation of the poor shall not perish forever.
 
¹⁹ Arise, O Lord,
Do not let man prevail;
Let the nations be judged in Your sight.

²⁰ Put them in fear, O Lord,
That the nations may know themselves to be but men. Selah

NKJV Psalm 13-20.

Note: Selah: Pause, Rest, Reflect

The Carpet Baggers Are Back!

    After the Civil War, people from the North moved to the South, akin to snake oil salespeople. They sought ways to take advantage of vulnerable Southerners. They were con men who talked fast, thought quickly, and got rich off the poor man. They were called Carpet Baggers because their bags were made from old carpets. They were cheap then and still are.

    Some individuals have evolved into billionaires who now hold significant power in our country. They spend millions to support their chosen candidates but expect to influence decisions in return. Although not elected, their appointments allow them to make choices that affect millions. What kind of government have we become? We are not a banana republic dependent on limited resources, yet our government sometimes appears unstable. We, the people, have been bought, sold, and enveloped in unlimited contributions and deception.

    Unfortunately, we can't pray to and serve the same God, the Holy Spirit. We may struggle to stay consistent, and we all go through seasons when our prayer lives falter. Let's not be discouraged during those times; instead, keep persevering! Successful people consistently do what others do only occasionally. Don't be an observer in the Coliseum cheering for the downfall of others. Pray for them. Today, the false guise that religion is under attack is misleading. It is the poor and vulnerable as the rich get richer. We don’t have the common sense that it is a war of classes, generations, and white guilt from the older generation who doesn't want to discuss it. They never had, but they were tired of hearing it. Look at the churches losing members. Some of their pastors are bringing up racial equality and understanding too much. The old folks don't need those memories. They are too busy bringing the Jim Crow days back when people knew their places. Few people are willing to sit together and have an honest and respectful conversation about racism. If admitting that it exists, it acknowledges that white supremacy exists, and that's why there's a separation in this country. That would require changes all around. It's easier to maintain the way things are. Radical changes could do more harm than good to some people.

    We can agree to disagree on the notion that the world is not yet prepared to embrace the divine. This perspective is firmly rooted in my belief; since the fateful moment when Adam and Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden, sin has taken a deep hold within the hearts and minds of humanity. I would further assert that when Lucifer and his followers were banished from the celestial realm, Earth transformed into a battleground for evil, forever stained by their rebellion. Satan could not accept God, and man has followed Satan. Even those holding religious positions have followed secular behaviors rather than separate themselves from church and state. It’s more lucrative that way.

    The prophets are no more, and the love of God seems absent. Humanity has become enamored with itself and its accomplishments. There is no one to be a voice in the wilderness to tell us to repent and that the Lord is returning. True Christians must strive to stand apart and resist conforming to this world. We are here only temporarily; our eternal life belongs elsewhere. Regardless of how much wealth and glory we accumulate, only our names will be remembered, and even that will fade into memory.