Do You Need Stress Relief ? Part 2
October 14, 2017 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral,Emotional, and Spiritual Health, Health & Diet, Holidays & Celebrations
Healthy Ways to relieve stress.
Private and Personal
Are you stressed? It is important to spend some quiet time to unwind. Writing a letter to anyone who has hurt you is good. Get it out. Express exactly however you feel. This validates your feelings. Release any anger and let go of the hurt. This is for your eyes only. Now tear it up in little pieces. Bury it and or simply throw it away!
If necessary do this whenever a past issue resurfaces until you have exhausted your pain. You are learning how to take better control of your emotions.
You can also get an empty chair; imagine that the person is sitting there, and say to whomever has hurt you how you feel. Take control and release any anger, hurt, shame or disappointment! You are now beginning to take out the trash that has begun to weigh you down.
Listen to some relaxing music, exercising, or just taking a walk helps. You now have decided to no longer let what has happened to sit on the shelf of your mind and ferment! You are now beginning to move towards letting it go. This also helps you move towards wholeness.
Family
Whenever your family is stressed? Set aside some quiet time aside from the television or any outside distractions and have a family “pow wow.” Allow those concerned to briefly talk about how they are feeling. Then have them talk about how things can be improved. It is helpful to alternate taking turns having one of the children to be the moderator. You will be surprised. This helps them to acquire leadership and management skills. It is also great family bonding time. Your objective is to create a healthy, loving, open, nurturing, safe environment.
Marriage
Is your marriage stressed? You need to set aside some quiet time where the two of you can calmly discuss what are the issues at hand. Rekindle that love that brought the two of you together. Revisit those marriage vows you made to one another. Restore the JOY of just being together. When two together row a boat it gets to the desired destination faster. Having a weekly date night is great as well! Remember you cannot change what has happened. However, you can decide to go forward. Yes, you will probably have to revisit where you have been. Respect, concern and truth should be welcomed. Keep your focus on your goal to resolve the conflict rather than create more. This time is to remind you of where you do not want to stay or continue to go.
Job or Work Environment
Is your job stressing you out? You need to make an appointment to talk to your supervisor, boss, employees or co workers and let them know how you are feeling. Make sure you are not angry when you do this. Find a neutral spot if possible. Writing down what you want to say will help you stay focused. If you feel that you may lose your thoughts or say something inappropriate reschedule. Graciously delay it until you are ready. The point is you want to take control not loose it. If they are not willing; it may be better to begin looking for employment somewhere else. If you don’t, at some point your health will become affected working continuously under such poor conditions. Your health is more important. You don’t want to spend the majority of your life full of anxiety, depressed or stressed.
Spiritual Renewal
Incorporating prayer and meditating upon the scriptures will yield much inner peace in your life. The WORD of GOD IS ALIVE. it is the only written work where the author is always present. Pray for understanding as you read its marvelous content. Actively implementing the principles are key to resolving inner conflict and stress. The scriptures were meant to point us to a better way of life. To abet developing a personal relationship with God our Creator. God has provided a wonderful plan of salvation for all who are willing to accept Jesus Christ into their hearts as their personal Savior. Jesus is able to save you from the power of sin reigning within your life. Jesus came to show us that better Way! To help you discover your true purpose in life and keep us on the Narrow Path
The “Gift of Life” is priceless. Therefore you want to make and effort to find better ways to cope in the midst of the unexpected. Your home environment should always be a priority. It should be your haven from the world. Invest your time energy and resources in building a safe healthy living environment.
Stress is a normal part of life. Taking the time to communicate your feelings in a healthy manner means you care. When a problem arises; Adopt and embrace “Redemptive Confronting!” Facing whatever the problem is or however you are feeling is always much better for you and those around you. Don’t live in denial. Don’t allow others to pull you from your center. If you aren’t centered get busy learning how to keep more focused. Everyone has a not so good day from time to time. Don’t major in the minors! Just make sure that stress has not become the theme for your everyday lifestyle.
Staying focused and discovering alternate ways to readily relieve any stress is a viable goal.
Life is too short and precious to spend the majority of your time stressed! It is important to begin to work towards having a healthier balance in life. Begin moving towards creating a warm, more peaceful, safe and loving environment. Learning coping skills and ways to manage stress will also result in a healthier outlook as well as becoming healthier spiritually, physically and emotionally.
TRULY WITH THE LORD YOU CAN BECOME WHOLE!
Book Release: “A HOUSE of PRAYER (Not a Hospital)”
June 2, 2017 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Religion & Spirituality
In this 21st century it is believed by many that the Church is a hospital. It is often said that it is a place for the sick. Does this mean that no one ever gets well?
The Lord did not come to build hospitals. He came to restore us back to the Father and for us to have an abundant life in every way. The House of the Lord is a House of Prayer.
What is your place of worship? Is it a place of worship or a place of hospitality? What is its main objective? Is it a social place where many simply seek to find refuge with those they have much in common? Is it a place where you can come to take part in the activities and have a good time? A place to simply feel comfortable and accepted? A place where you can feel good, but not necessarily become transformed by the renewing of your mind by the Word of God!
THINK and ponder for a moment. Is your place of worship simply a hospital for sinners or a museum for saints? Is it here you can simply remain sick sinners for a lifetime?
The next time you are in an actual hospital look around and see all the hurting people. Take notice and see how crowded it is in the emergency room. How long the lines are, waiting for prescriptions to be filled. How long do you have to wait. Notice the many specialists, doctors, nurses and technicians scurrying about. Yes, it is serious business, how sad so many are ailing. They are all there for a multiplicity of reasons.
All things considered, is this really how you think “A House of Prayer” should really be?
All of these questions and more are addressed in my new book. Pick up a copy and go with me to my Father’s House, “A HOUSE of PRAYER (Not a Hospital).”
Learning The Art Of “Being Still” Part 2
November 18, 2016 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral,Emotional, and Spiritual Health
Part 2
Triune God
“Be still and know that I am God!” The Proverbs candidly informs us that understanding comes from the Lord. He is omniscient, omnipresent and omnipotent. Above Him is no other. There is an art to being still. Know that He is a majestic triune God. The Father, Son and His Holy Spirit His Comforter are all one. HE IS AN AWESOME GOD!
His Word is alive. We should approach His Word humbly and interactively with respect. His Word; is distinctly different. It is like no other book. It is the only book that the Author is always present. As we navigate through its amazing passages we find it exudes a plethora of spiritual wisdom. It ignites and enlightens our innermost being.
We must solicit His Holy Spirit to open our understanding.
Godly understanding is a companion of spiritual wisdom. God does not want us ignorant. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom.” Humbly and sincerely ask the Lord to open your understanding as you journey through its contents. His Word is marvelously powerful! Be sure to read comprehensively with the intent to glean and apply its intended messages to your daily life. The Lord alone knows exactly what we all need.
The Art Of “Being Still!”

Be Still Daily Praise Him.
God’s marvelous Word is not of man’s interpretation. It requires assistance from His Holy Spirit to open our spiritual understanding.
Life Presents Challenges
Adorn yourself daily with the Armor of God. Whenever life presents inevitable challenges and bombards you on every side His Word helps us to be prepared. If you are not prepared they will take you under. Each day take time to draw even nearer to the Lord and polish up your spiritual armor. Put into practice all that you learn. Be willing to be attentive, conscientious, focused and ready to hear. Be open to conviction and enthusiastically listen from the deepest depth of your being. It is His Truth that keeps your loins protected and your mind sharp!
God’s Spirit transforms us from the inside out. It is also in His presence where you internally re-energize,. You become more aware as your mental telepathy is tuned in to Him. Your inner peace resonates and becomes amplified. Your God-given joy and encouragement is fortified. Remember, grace and peace is multiplied by the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
You can hear from God wherever you are
Keep in mind, the Word of God is “Quick and powerful” meaning it is alive, active! Hebrews 8 tells us that God really will “put His laws in your minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people…” You can hear from This is not something that man can inhibit unless you allow it. Keep your focus upon the Lord. Hebrews also goes on to say that this is the “New Covenant…” Life was not meant to be an aimlessly ephemeral, simple transient excursion.
Christianity is a daily Lifestyle
The people of God down through the generations have gone through some things. This is why Praise and Worship was meant to be a daily lifestyle. Worship keeps us connected to who we are and for whom we were created. To “lift up Holy hands,” inside, outside, whenever or wherever. His Church assembles together large or small, or when “two are three are gathered in My name…” He is in the midst. Jesus should be praised, thanked, edified and magnified. Everyday; “To GOD Be the GLORY!”
His Covenant is a promised agreement. In your leisure take the time to see how throughout the lives of His people God was always meant to be their “Central Theme.” The many preparations, numerous offerings and sacrifices that were made in the Old Testament were mere reminders of the sins of the people and the need to be mindful of God and His principles daily. God always leaves a remnant of His people . Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior through which all was spoken into existence, who is Holy, sinless, blameless, once and for all sacrificed His life for us so we could live life differently.
Fruit of His Spirit
This is why it is vitally important and so relevant to know Him and what He has done for all of us! “God is not a respecter of persons.” As a believer it is significantly important to know that you have a place with Him that is specifically meant for you within His body, His Church not made by hands. His nurturing presence is readily available where ever you are and His plenteous manna accessible ripening the Fruit of His Spirit within your life. Just know with confidence, no one can take it from you. Know Him personally, who He is and what you believe, put your faith and trust in God.
Make is a priority to spend some time each day with the Lord in His Word. God wants to make a difference in your life everyday.
For Part 1 (Click link below)
http://deborrah-k.com/category/counseling-issues/page/3/
I am Thankful for my Husband; the Father of our Children!
June 8, 2016 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral,Emotional, and Spiritual Health
I am truly thankful for my Husband. He has been wonderful. We have shared many marvelous memories. The Lord has knitted our hearts together in His Love. I daily thank & praise His Holy Name for HIS Everlasting Love is priceless.

TRUE BEAUTY COMES FROM WITHIN THE HEART
A Great Father
My husband has been a marvelous father. He respectfully nurtured and engaged our children as they were growing up. He has been a great role model. I am thankful that we raised our children in a great home environment.
I can truly say; GOD has been GOOD to me all of my life! I thank Him for HE has BLESSED me/us in ways that I cannot express in words.
The Lord has also brought us through much spiritual warfare. He has taught us invaluable Life Wisdom Lessons. Hold your peace because; “GOD WILL FIGHT YOUR BATTLES.” Daily He continues to grow us in HIS Grace Wisdom & Knowledge as we walk in the TRUTH of HIS WORD! We can always think of something to be thankful for. Regardless of what happens the Lord has taught us when you LOVE HIM “ALL things work together for the GOOD” “Where the SPIRIT of the LORD is there is LIBERTY.” II Corinthians 3
“GOD WILL take care of you!” I praise and thank the Lord for the liberty that we have found in HIM. I know that it is only by His grace that HE has instilled within us to know without doubt that HE always has our best interest at heart. “I once was young but now I am old, yet, I have never seen the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread.” Psalm 37
I am grateful to know that the Lord is omnipresent & I have “BLESSED ASSURANCE” knowing that everywhere I/we are HE is there. The Lord has allowed us together to see and visit much of this amazing world that was spoken into existence through JESUS CHRIST. There is still so much more to learn & see. One should be ever mindful that everywhere you are GOD is there. “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof. The world and them that dwell therein.” Psalm 24 I am thankful for the Lord allowing us to feel and experience His presence wherever we go.
We can always TRUST the LORD. HIS WORD teaches us; “BLESSED be the GOD & FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, who has BLESSED us with every SPIRITUAL BLESSING in the Heavenly places in CHRIST.” Ephesians 1 In the Lord you can discover everything that you will ever need for Life & Living & Eternal life. For this I am eternally thankful. We have learned that “true beauty comes from within.
~ Personal Tribute ~
Give honor where honor is due. I thank the Lord for the many GIFTS & TALENTS that He has given to my husband the father of our children. (As well as the many gifts that are inclusive of our family at large.) He has been and outstanding husband & father. He has been loving, strong, patient, firm, protective, at times unyielding and yet kind with our children.
He is a marvelous skilled Master Minister of Music. He has patiently directed many choirs and taught them the importance of “harmonic blending” to the degree you can hear a melodic ring when the harmony is on point. He can skillfully play any genre of music from Gospel to Classical Jazz and make the plethora of crafted key boards dance their own melodic tune. He is not at all boastful about His God given talent. His goal has always been to “GLORIFY our LORD!”
“Your Gift will make room for you…” Proverbs 18 ~
He has excelled in the world of technology. He is an astute business man who has been an overseer and managed and mentored and trained many professional project managers within the corporate world. His natural temperament is extraordinary and resilient. He is able to relate to a plethora of culture, ages and diverse personalities. This is true if you are saved or unsaved. He can engage one on one or to a multitude on a multiplicity of spiritual and intellectual levels. But most important, he is a humble yet very strong Man of God. He can steadfastly exegete, teach, proclaim, expound and stand upon GOD’S WORD. He has indeed accomplished much to make this world a better place to live in for many.
He is the love of my life!
Together we daily welcome the presence of the Lord within our home and our lives. Our children are now adults. They are now establishing their own homes. Our love continues to grow. As the Word says; “PRAISE GOD from whom all BLESSINGS flow” THANK YOU LORD!
Life is so much more precious when you share it with someone you are on one accord with. In a consecrated marriage you love, respect, admire, enjoy & trust one another without question. Precious endless memories abound. Yet, life is full of mountain top and valley experiences. Henceforth we have together learned to major in its joys and minor in its sorrows. To soar and trust God in the valley or upon the mountaintops. TRULY GOD IS GOOD ALL the time! I Thank the LORD for there has certainly been much less times in the valley… I THANK the LORD for teaching us how to work together to bring up our children in a home of love, patience, understanding & peace. The Lord’s presence is evident for; “Where two or three are gathered together in my name I am in the midst…” Matthew 18
WHAT GOD KNOWS ABOUT US IS WHAT MATTERS MOST!
WHEN YOU TRULY LIVE FOR THE LORD; YOUR REPUTATION IS ALWAYS SAFE WITH HIM! FOR THERE IS NOTHING HIDDEN TO HIM!
Together we have experience “PERFECTION in the LORD” which simply means to be COMPLETE in HIM! The beauty about GOD is HE KNOWS EXACTLY where you are coming from. For in times likes these we need A SAVIOR! I can not imagine life without our LORD to HIM we give the GLORY!
Life with God is precious
I BELIEVE that each & every day is a precious GIFT from the Lord. Know HIS WORD for yourself because; ALL HIS WORD IS TRUE! What is so precious about the Lord is “He is not a respecter of persons…” James 2 Take delight in the Lord be patient because in HIS time, “HE will give you “the desires of your heart” that are in HIS WILL for you… Psalm 37
The Lord is always there to help us. We in turn need to just reach out, submit and trust HIM! For: “I will look to the hills from which comes my HELP. My HELP comes from the LORD. ” Psalm 121 I am thankful of the Lord’s presence in our lives. He is our Rock, Refuge and strong foundation.
We are to be “As wise as a serpent, yet as harmless as a dove.” Matthew 10 Don’t allow bitterness or regrets to take root, time is too precious and you do not want to waste a lot of it in regrets. Take some time & draw closer to the LORD for HE WILL teach you how to “guard your heart” with diligence. Psalm 3
In closing;
Women respect your husbands. Husbands respect your wives. Love one another fervently. Single men & women seek the Lord’s direction if you desire a spouse. Hide the Word of God in your hearts. You must learn to give up “Me”ness for “We”ness! A great marriage is possible but it takes dedication, discipline, long suffering, prayer, sacrifice, work & responsibility. Furthermore marriage is about mutual team work. Therefore, be willing to give and give in love. Don’t take one another for granted. Learn to be thankful for the time you share with one another.
Truly the LORD is my/our Shepherd! We are living in an ever changing world that continues to move further and further away from His principles! Know this; Marriage God’s Way Works! Keep God as the Center of your marriage. There are those who will do and say just about anything… There are those who will try to undermine your integrity. Do not fear or be discouraged, instead TRUST GOD, for HE WILL; “lead you in the Path of Righteousness for HIS Namesake…” Psalm 23 Honor God in your marriage and within your home. PRAY for DISCERNMENT! Stay connected & “PRAY without ceasing” all throughout your day.
TRULY GOD IS FAITHFUL! THANK YOU LORD for my husband the father of our Children. I Love You through ETERNITY. ~ Today & everyday; HAPPY FATHER’S DAY! ~
Marriage and Addiction Relief Part 5
January 1, 2016 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral,Emotional, and Spiritual Health
Marriage & Addiction
How drugs affect our bodies and your marriage?
Drug abuse continues to escalate. It is taking its casualties all over the world! Drugs change the natural chemistry of the human body. Drugs for some are necessary therapeutic medicinal healing aids to facilitate improving ones health. For millions of people they help to sustain a certain quality of life. Diabetes, heart disease, cancer, infections, viruses, broken bones, sprains, pain and arthritis are just a few of the plethora of ailments that are usually controlled by drugs. In these cases they are usually necessary and beneficial.
Doctors treat many illnesses, diseases and conditions with medical drugs every day! Drugs may be swallowed, injected, inhaled or sniffed. There are legitimate as well as illegitimate uses for drugs. One can become addicted in both cases. The use of drugs illegally is far more dangerous. When one has a spouse who engages in drugs it is much harder to establish intimacy. Their need for drugs is more important than their need to be emotionally available.
It is not wise to use drugs that are not personally prescribed for you nor those purchased illegally. Drugs alter the chemistry of the brain and make you feel different. A physician takes into consideration your current health status, your weight and symptoms when prescribing a prescription. The more you use drugs the more your brain chemistry becomes altered.
When a person becomes addicted they are out of control. The drug or behavior of choice now has taken over and the desire to “fix” the way they are feeling takes priority over everything! They will quite often do whatever is necessary just to “feel good.” This is why it is so important to be under the care of a trained physician who knows how to properly prescribe the proper medication to address any physical or mental ailments. Even under the care of a qualified doctor one can still become chemically dependent and addicted to drugs.
Pain is real! The addict is in pain and has lost their ability to cope with reality unless they are under the influence. They have developed an unhealthy habit and desire to experience a level of pleasure and/or the need to escape from reality. Life can be difficult and often people are thrust in to situations and terrible living conditions that are unbearable. Childhood trauma and cumulative issues not dealt with fester and cause emotional pain. People often carry many unresolved issues into their relationships… This can forbid them from being transparent. The marriage then often suffers from neglect and lack of intimacy. This causes much conflict within he marriage. The spouse with the addiction is often emotionally unavailable. It is important to seek viable help.
To some marriage is a game rather than a sacred union. Rather than being responsible the addicted spouse is selfish. A secondary marriage addiction example. There was a man in the Sacramento area who was arrested for participating in numerous marriage unions. He also arranged as many 39 bogus marriages for others for which he profited for a fee at the expense of others unhappiness. It is important to take time to get to know who you are marrying… This man’s selfish deceptive actions hurt many people. He had no intention of making a virtuous commitment. It is evident that he had an unhealthy addiction to the idea of marriage.
Trust can be shattered like a glass vase. Leaving one traumatized! Trust can erode when one is not attentive to the needs of their spouse creating an abyss. Marriage is about coming together and building a great partnership. It can be tedious regaining trust again but it is possible. It is always important to be honest about your pain and how you are feeling. Disillusioned by a break in trust usually leaves the spouse empty and needy. Which also makes them vulnerable… Building or establishing an ongoing relationship with the Lord will build a stronger foundation that will help to keep you anchored! God is available 24/7! God is true to His Word! “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight!” Proverbs 3.
Sexual addiction is quite threatening to a marriage. It is an intimacy problem. Millions of people in the US suffer from sexual addictions. The person with a sexual addiction has a hard time connecting to and making a monogamous commitment. They are caught up in a vicious cycle of having their own needs met at any cost. The spouse’s needs are usually ignored and neglected due to the spouses self-indulgence. Addiction that is not addressed will not just go away. Restoration is a choice; it takes a lot of work but it is possible.
Godly counsel and much time spent in fervent prayer are needed along with a necessary redemptive confrontation. The confrontation means I care enough to “speak the Truth in Love.” Confrontation brings the issues to the forefront. It is important that the issues are then addressed immediately. Keep it real! If you or your spouse has an addiction of any kind; Please DO NOT delay seeking help. The longer you wait the harder it is to make the necessary lifestyle and environment changes. A couple that has a strong healthy marriage bond can be a great mentor and a source of encouragement.
You have vowed to be there for one another for better or for worse? Take care of yourself and make it a point to look your best. If you are reading this and you are single. Start dealing with your issues now before you commit to marry. When you marry someone with an addiction you have married their addiction. You get a somewhat superficial façade of who they area. Such as how they cope when not under the influence. It is important to know that a good strong marriage is built on TRUST! If necessary recommit to your vows and start anew.
Now let’s get busy moving forward building better, stronger, satisfying, trusting enduring marriages! Be encouraged A great marriage (without addiction) is truly still possible!
The Spirit of Truth
June 30, 2015 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Religion & Spirituality
JESUS CHRIST is the LIGHT of the world! The LORD does not want anyone to walk in darkness. HE has given us HIS WORD JESUS CHRIST & HIS COMFORTER HIS HOLY SPIRIT! ‘HIS WORD will be a lamp unto your feet and a LIGHT unto your path”
This is what HIS WORD teaches:
“Unless I go away, the COUNSELOR, will not come to you; but if I go, I will send HIM to you. When HE comes HE will convict the world of guilt in regard to SIN & RIGHTEOUSNESS and JUDGMENT, in regards to SIN men do not BELIEVE in ME; in regards to RIGHTEOUSNESS, because I AM going to the FATHER where you can see ME no longer; and in regards to judgment because the prince of this world now stands condemned.
I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when HE, the SPIRIT of TRUTH comes, HE WILL GUIDE you to ALL TRUTH…” John 16
All around and throughout this world our Lord has created there is much Spiritual Warfare about us. Because of Jesus Christ death upon the cross we have been given the opportunity to have Eternal life. It is upon the cross Jesus Christ overcame the forces of darkness and redeemed us from the penalty of sin of the original sin that entered the world via Adam & Eve. No one else was able to do this! We who believe can now look forward to one day living with God in Heaven forever after we have completed the course of life or once Jesus Christ returns for those of us who remain before the RAPTURE! This is only possible once we truly accept Jesus Christ into our hearts as our personal Savior & Lord. Praise God!
Upon the profession of our Faith we receive the precious Gift of His Holy Spirit It is through an ongoing committed intimate relationship with Him we are able to grow in His wisdom, Grace & knowledge. God has given us His Word which is our necessary Spiritual Food to nourish our eternal souls. We are then better able to recognize and discern when something or someone is not of Him as we implement the principles of His Word within our daily lives. We must continually as often as necessary asked to be filled by the indwelling presence of His Holy Spirit! “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be SAVED. For it is with your heart that you BELIEVE and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are Saved.” Romans 10
The prince of this world who is satan has already been condemned to eternal damnation. Therefore he does not want any of us to know the TRUTH and he daily continues to try and deceive and confuse the inhabitants of this world any way he can… The reason why we are seeing so many things going awry within the world is because so many are turning away from the Word of God. Many are ignorant and do not know GOD. Many are doing what is right in their own eyes and seek to fulfill the lust of the flesh. This is true in the world and also to a degree within God’s Church! God created this world that was spoken into existence through Jesus Christ. Everything that He made was good. Through man’s disobedience it was corrupted by sin. “In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with God, and the WORD was God. He was God from the beginning..” John 1
God has given us the BIBLE which is His infallible Holy Word! It consists of the Old & New Testaments. A good acronym to remember is: BIBLE = Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth! It is here in His Word we better learn what life & living is all about and its history and origins. When Jesus Christ came He fulfilled the laws and all the requirements of the Old Testament. In the New Testament we learn how He now wants us to live. We have a Covenant relationship with Him. Here is what His Word teaches us: “This is the Covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put My laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be My people. No longer will a man teach his neighbor, or a man his brother, saying ‘Know the Lord, because they all will know Me, from the least to the greatest…” Hebrews 8
This is why it is so very important to know the Word of God for yourself. We are under the Covenant of Grace. The invitation to accept Him as Lord and Savior that was given to Israel has been extended to all nations. We as believers are not to use grace as a license to sin. Sin is anything that separates us from God. “ALL have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” We are not supposed to practice sin. Nor or we to excuse sin in ourselves or others… We are to readily repent of any sin and start anew walking in the Light of His Word. Spiritual growth is an ongoing life long process. We can do this through the Power of His Holy Spirit which is; the Spirit of Truth!”
The Holy Spirit the Comforter is a precious Gift from God to lead us to all Truth! To help us navigate through the Spiritual Warfare that has been designed to entrap us and pull us away from God’s purpose & plan for our lives. It is important that we learn to become better focused, stay connected to the Lord and “pray without ceasing” throughout our day!
KNOW this: JESUS CHRIST IS THE WAY THE TRUTH & THE LIFE! Do NOT be deceived there is NO OTHER way to HEAVEN! “Through Him all things were made; without HIM nothing was made that has been made. In Him is life, and that life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.” John 1
Keep CHRIST in CHRISTmas!
December 20, 2014 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Christmas
Today I was reminded of a story about a family on the East Coast. They held a party to celebrate Christmas. As the guests arrived, they all threw their coats on a bed. They proceeded to celebrate, eating, drinking and opening gifts, etc. It was later discovered that the guests had actually thrown their coats on top of a baby. The baby was asleep on the bed and was smothered by the coats and died. They overlooked, or didn’t actually see the baby. They had gotten caught up in their partying.
This was a very sad situation. It was also an eye opener as to how Jesus can get “smothered.” It often happens during Christmas celebrations, ignorantly or deliberately. Our world is moving more and more in the direction of trying to remove Him from being the center of this holiday. Have you noticed that many, particularly in our work places, are afraid. They will hesitate in saying have a “Merry Christmas?” Instead they will say “Happy Holidays.” Some will call Christmas trees “holiday trees.” In many neighborhoods, instead of Nativity Scenes on front lawns of houses, we see Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and other cartoon or fictitious characters.
Christmas seems to be the only holiday where many don’t want to call it by it’s name. This is also true particularly in our work places. In the United States, we seem to have no problem saying any other holiday’s name. They will say; Independence Day, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, President’s Day, etc. But when it comes to saying have a “Merry Christmas”, some of us stutter.
Jesus is the reason for this season, and every other season. For all things were made by HIM and for HIM. This holiday is a Christian holiday, set aside to acknowledge the birth of Jesus Christ. “FOR unto us a CHILD is born, unto us a SON is given: and the government shall be upon HIS shoulder: and HIS name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9
Contending For The Faith
June 8, 2014 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Religion & Spirituality
If you ever want a powerful defense for the Christian Faith Jude is an excellent book to refer to. Defending the Faith is not something new. Jude teaches the importance of not compromising the Word of God! The Word of God is priceless! You cannot manipulate God nor His Word no matter who you are! There are a lot of worldly influences that from the very beginning have tried to twist the Bible and its teachings! Many have been deceived, this is still the case today! Many worldly ways, concepts and methods have been embraced and embedded into the organized church system that are not of God. This is why it is important to know God and know His Word; of Him you can be certain and sure!!!
Jude tells us to “Contend for the Faith!” What does this mean? Contend means to strive against difficulties, to be persistent and assert yourself. Faith means believe without seeing. “FAITH is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By Faith we understand that the universe was formed at GOD’S command so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible…” Hebrews 11 The Bible gives us the real facts! It is was not misconstrued circumstantial evidence. Many today attempt to use the Word to control others, justify their behavior and lifestyles but are really only promoting sin!
God is powerful as a matter of fact He is OMNIPOTENT meaning He is ALL POWER! He is SUPERIOR and SUPREME! Think about it with all the millions of organized church assemblies opened in the name of God, what is going on in this world should not be! It certainly is not because of GOD! It is because there are so many wolves in sheep clothing. “They are godless men who change the grace of God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord” Saints are supposed to be believers! Not followers of the world. But, followers of Jesus Christ!
Today too many want to be leaders that are served, rather than Servants of God! All too often you now find that many in the church instead follow the latest trends and adopt the ways of the world. No need to be jealous! Disengage from the messiness and focus on GOD! Make it your goal to share the WORD and truly live everyday to please GOD! Come what may in the end you will have VICTORY through JESUS CHRIST! ALL you will ever need you can discover in the LORD! “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it…” Psalm 24. Want what GOD wants for you! When you “STAND” on GOD’S WORD you never have to stand alone! “GOD WILL FIGHT YOUR BATTLES” Take some time and think about it? Who are you really following and where are they leading you to? Truly; “The LORD is my SHEPHERD!” & “HE leads me in the path of righteousness for HIS Namesake…”
We must TRUST GOD! When you know that there is a lot of false teaching going on what do you do? When you know that you have helped those that no one else would help, and they turn on you, what do you do? When you know that you have been mistreated and maligned and falsely accused what do you do? Do not have a pity party! PRAISE GOD!!! Know that you are in good company because this is what happened to Jesus! When you know that manipulation and deception is present you still must remain faithful to God and His Word! Don’t let anyone pull you so low that you hate them… Don’t settle or compromise your godly principles to get access or support by the majority… Christianity is really not a popularity contest or a social club. Yes we are supposed to fellowship and Worship & Praise God! But don’t get caught up in the gossip… Anything you say about someone when they are not present you should be willing to say to their face.
Everyone will have to answer to the Lord at some point! So get right with GOD! God knows what you have or have not done. Don’t become bitter! Become BETTER! Guard your heart! God is more powerful than what any man or woman can EVER do to you! You must draw closer to God and TRUST HIM! Seek Him above all else! God will give you a strong sound mind! He CAN KEEP you from falling! “Do not be conformed to this world. But TRANSFORMED by the renewing of your mind!” Your true security and significance can only be found in the LORD! “If GOD is for us who can be against us!” THANK YOU LORD! & PRAISE GOD!
The Word is often used to justify lifestyles and wrong behavior that are not sanctioned by God! Minimizing sin and embracing tolerance. Often justified under the guise of unconditional love! God never intended for Christianity to become a legalistic doctrinal concept of rules and regulations. The House of God is supposed to be the Pillar of TRUTH! It is written! Christ died so we could have an abundant spiritual life! As a matter of fact it was the religious leaders that conspired to discredit JESUS and secretly sought to destroy Him. How ironic they called Him evil. Does this sound familiar? The Bible is the inspired Word of God! “It is a lamp unto our feet and a Light unto our path…”
The gift of Eternal Life is one of the most precious gifts one can ever receive! Along with that gift comes the promise of His Holy Spirit. The Comforter and ultimate internal Teacher! Jude extends to us Mercy, Peace and Love in abundance! When Jesus ascended to heaven He promised that the Holy Spirit would come. Jesus prepared His disciples for His departure. He told them “Nevertheless I tell you the TRUTH. It is to your advantage that I go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment; of sin, because they do not believe in Me, of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. I still have many things to say to you, BUT you cannot bear them now. However, when He, the Spirit of TRUTH, has come, He will guide you into All truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come…” JOHN 16
Jude known as the brother of Jesus Christ tells us that we have a duty to fight for GOD’S TRUTH! Not in a physical carnal way! Our weapons are not carnal! We must stay adorned with the spiritual armor! “PRAY also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the GOSPEL, for which I am an ambassador in chains. PRAY that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should” See Ephesians 6 Know that your body is a temple of GOD and GOD is everywhere that you are! Without doubt we are in the last days and the Word of God is being fulfilled! We need not be afraid but prayerful! It is important to persevere knowing that God is with you! Jude says:“But dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, “In the last times, there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires. These are the men who divide you. Who follow mere natural instincts and DO NOT have the SPIRIT. But you, dear friends build yourself up in your most HOLY FAITH and pray in the HOLY SPIRIT. Keep yourselves up in God’s LOVE as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring eternal life. Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh…”
One must only watch the news, read the newspaper or search online to see that time is near! “Anything goes!” There was not only been an Economic Recession but a “SPIRITUAL RECESSION” as well! Just look around and see the extremity of things that are happening in and about the world… Many of our congregations are also allowing carnal worldly teachings. Bible study on many occasions has turned into group think and mind conditioning sessions to tell people who they should or should not associate with… This is a cultist mentality. No wonder there is so much havoc within the homes, schools, work places, entertainment events and communities. Ministry goes beyond the walls! Please do not just go to Church! Be the CHURCH! I always say; “Character is who you are when no one but GOD is watching!” We must not just read and talk about the Word. We must actually apply it within our daily lives. “Do not walk in the counsel of ungodly people…” Psalm 1 It is important to know that the LORD is with you wherever you go and one must constantly seek the direction of HIS HOLY SPIRIT! Healing & deliverance is truly possible! Quite often respect for God and His Word are all too often are laid aside; carnality takes the forefront because somebody says; “I’m human” The time of increased Apostasy is definitely here! Meaning the abandoning of Faith! “Without Faith it is impossible to please God!” We must encourage believers as well as non believers to get to know the LORD in an intimate up close and personal way. LORD HELP US!
Anyone can be subject to error therefore PRAY for SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT! This is why we all need His Holy Spirit to convict the heart of sin and point us to righteousness. What is righteousness? It is right living in the eyes of God! It is walking in the path of righteousness for HIS NAMESAKE! Sin is anything that separates us from God! Sin is missing the mark. The world says do what you feel is right and the majority votes to change the rules to suit its carnal desires. Remember Sodom and Gomorrah? God really will set you FREE! But not to do as you please. God has a better way. We must daily strive to delight ourselves in the WORD of GOD! Exercise your Faith in GOD as you PRAY in the HOLY SPIRIT! This means as you pray in power & strength you turn your focus to the LORD and seek HIS WILL above all others! Jude says:”Contend for the Faith that was once entrusted to the saints. For certain men whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of GOD into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Lord as Sovereign and Lord” Jude 1 God wants to reveal to us daily HIS WILL & HIS WAY This is another reason why Jesus left us His Holy Spirit! “But dear friends build yourselves up in your most HOLY FAITH & PRAY in the HOLY SPIRIT. Keep yourselves in GOD’S LOVE as you wait for the mercy of our LORD JESUS CHRIST to bring you to ETERNAL LIFE…” Jude 1
Everyday, “To GOD be the GLORY!” The LORD wants us to, “be in the world, but not of the world!” Having an encounter with God regularly will bring you closer to Him! It will continually open your “spiritual eyes” This is also why we must contend for the Faith and stand firm! If you have grown slack in your commitment to God; He can speak renewal and strength to your heart! We must humbly and diligently pursue TRUTH! God can bring a plan and a purpose into your life like no other! “To HIM who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious presence without fault and with great JOY to the only GOD and SAVIOR be GLORY, MAJESTY, POWER and AUTHORITY, through JESUS CHRIST our LORD, before all ages, now and forevermore! HALLLELLLUJAH, SALVATION & GLORY HONOR & POWER to THE LORD our GOD!!!”
Living In An Upside Down World
June 30, 2013 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Society & Culture
Today we are living within an upside down world. In many instances what is wrong is embraced as right. What is right is embraced as wrong. This is why it is so very important that you get to know the TRUTH of GOD’S WORD. Know firsthand, for yourself intimately and personally who GOD and HIS WORD IS! This way you will not be so easily towed right along with everything you hear and see.
The Apostle Paul wanted to alert the Church to see how to recognize and confront “false teaching.” Paul wrote to the Church extensively because he was so concerned that so many were getting caught up with the bureaucracy and the traditions of man. Paul encouraged the Church to preserve, model, embrace and live out Christian principles in every area of their daily life. Today, right now, we too need to be mindful of these very same things.
Quite often when one reads and visits the corridors of Scripture they see the characters and situations as merely historical and sometimes fictional. This can often cause one to become far removed. The Word is alive and powerful! The wealth of applicable practical wisdom endowed within the Scriptures often goes over their heads. This causes them to respond in an aloof manner to the lessons presented and overlook the wisdom lessons intended.
The people, prophets, priests and kings were real genuine people. In the Word you can discover people from every facet of life. They too have authentic issues no different from what we see today. God really is the same God who always was and always will be! He is eternal; in Him through His Son Christ Jesus we who believe, have the gift of eternal life. Time belongs to Him. Time is constructed for us to be able to relate within a time frame. We have all the time we need to do whatever it is God has created each one of us to be! When we have completed our course we go home to our Lord.
God is endless; He is the Alpha & Omega. The Beginning and the End!
The Book of Ephesians is an excellent Book to indulge your mind in for spiritual enlightenment. The Church became embroiled in endless questions. Arguments, politics and controversies often took them away from studying and applying the Scriptures. We must be mindful that it is so important to not get side-tracked from the intended purpose. It is important to sincerely desire and ask to be filled with His Holy Spirit. In order to glean the true intended meaning of the Scriptures we must rightfully divide and apply its intended purposes.
Many strive for popularity, prestige and recognition from peers rather than seek for God’s approval. These things within themselves are not bad, but we must know that man is fickle and inconsistently changes very easily. Discernment is Key! Therefore it is important to know that through the Lord we really have everything we will ever need. He really does know everything we think, say do or do not do! Thank You Lord for Your Omnipresence!
Although it may not be readily tangibly present, we can rest assure that His power is always accessible. Ephesians tells us “Jesus Christ has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight…” Believe and ponder on this passage of Scripture for a while. Absorb and go deeply into its contents to glean the intended benefits. Let this reinforce within you the security and spiritual significance that rings forth. It says not some but all spiritual blessings.
There are a wealth of benefits in knowing and having a personal intimate relationship with the Lord. These blessings are not always visible where one can see. But they are available and accessible in the eternal heavenly spiritual realm. It is important to know how to “BE STILL & KNOW!” This means that they are eternal. God chose us and we belong to Him. This all took place way back before any of us even existed. Our little finite minds cannot conceive the totality of God. We are just minute particles in His whole scheme of things. No matter how small, large, visible or unseen it is all relevant to Him. We must daily grow in His Grace. We must trust HIM more. We must be committed to;“Walk by FAITH!”
When any scene or situation presents itself on our life’s canvas we must seek His direction to properly apply and paint the intended strokes. Having the proper attitude about God is necessary to deal with any present injustices. Persecution and misunderstanding will attempt to take a dominant position to etch insecurity and doubt onto the forefront of your life canvas. Yielding subdued hues and shades of gray to subliminally overshadow the main theme. But as you always keep in mind that God knows you, His Light will shine forth in the midst even when darkness tries to impose itself upon you. We must remain steadfast and unmovable upon His Word! For it is a “Solid Rock Foundation!” We cannot predict the future precisely. But we can focus, trust and put our faith in God our Creator and Maker who knows us and will watch over and protect us living in and upside down world.
God allows both good and bad times for all of us. “He is not a respecter of persons.” We must learn to consistently lean and put our faith and trust in Him. In order to not be pulled into whatever is suddenly hurled into your direction even though intended to snarl, derail, discredit our credibility or entrap us, our focus must be on HIM! We must learn how not to allow insults, injustices or any storm or seasonal moment in time define the totality of our existence.
When you spend time in His presence you can abide under the shadow of The Almighty because you know that He knows and that is what ultimately truly matters. Ecclesiastes tells us that, “There is something else meaningless that occurs on earth; righteous men who get what the wicked deserve, and wicked men who get what the righteous deserve.” The point that I am trying to make is that life has a deeper meaning than what man sees. Many seek first as a top priority to be affirmed and recognized in the eyes of man. Momentarily this may satisfy an inner longing, life on this side of heaven is short, there really is a deeper meaning to life.
If all the wisdom, prestige or power that the world has to offer were available it would be but a minute particle in regards to the infinite wisdom and power of the Lord. Perhaps this is why Jesus Christ made Himself of no reputation? Yes we are “in the world but not of the world!” For, “it is Him we move and live and have our being.” Although often unrecognized or accepted by the masses Jesus did not deter from His life purpose. He remained faithful and committed to the will of His Father in and often, cruel, often harsh upside down world.
God sees and knows it all. It is not merely how things appear or seem. We all will have to stand before an all-knowing all-wise God who knows where our hearts and minds are as well as our intentions. Know the Lord and His Word so you are not towed along with the “false teaching” of anyone. Ephesians says “have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything is exposed to the Light becomes visible, for the Light makes everything visible…” God tells us to live as children of the Light. When you are walking in the Light you know that whatever darkness tries to overshadow your life’s canvas, that your Creator, Your Maker, Our heavenly Father is omniscient. Be patient and be reassured He is totally aware! You can surely trust Him to keep you right side up, living in and upside down world.
Notice how most animals walk on all fours. God Created us as His children to walk uprightly, our hands should be readily available to reach up and Praise Him! It is important to be aware of what is going on about us. We do not want to live in denial neither is it healthy. Life without God is futile, meaningless. God’s Word is our life manual and essential intrinsic tool to help us navigate through life. We can find hope in the midst of sorrow, joy in the midst of sadness, comfort in the midst of pain, encouragement in the midst of persecution and peace within the midst of an upside down world.
Make it a priority to spend some time in His Word not only on Sunday or whatever your designated Bible Study night may be. Study all through the week! The Book of Ecclesiastes tells us ” Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before.” Yes we should be aware living in an upside down world, but not totally alarmed. Through the eyes of God we can see and recognize life problems and realize that God does have a plan to take us through whatever comes our way.
Through faith we can trust God and always seek His will for our path forward regardless of where you are in life. God has a plan for the lives of all of His children. God’s plan simply is to daily live for Him. Ecclesiastes ends by telling us that “Now all has been heard here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments. FOR THIS IS THE WHOLE, DUTY OF MAN. For GOD will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” This is true even living in and upside down world.
RELIGION – How It HELPS Or IMPAIRS Mental Stability – Part 2
October 21, 2012 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Politics & Social Issues, Religion & Spirituality
Christianity is much more than just a religion! It is so much more than a social club. In general, for many, religion has turned into a manufactured system where rules are dictated, regulated and policies are made. Quite often there is an ever increasing list of do’s and dont’s to conform to, which sometimes go so far as to require a staunch or restrictive dress code. To the other extreme often a very lax dress is encouraged in order to make everyone “feel” comfortable and simply “come as you are!” Rather than present oneself in a somewhat tidy respectable manner. Often actually forsaking the Power of the Holy Spirit’s ability to transform the individual’s life from the inside out! Think about it for a moment how would you present your self if you knew that you were going to be in the company of the Queen? Certainly a balance is needed in this area.
The Holy Spirit is the ultimate Spiritual Guide and Teacher! The Word of God teaches us that true worshipers worship the Father “In Spirit and in TRUTH!” John 4.
Keep in mind that the LORD is the most HIGH GOD who desires to continually transform the lives of devoted believers and reach out to the world! Above Him is no other! Without the Lord one is disconnected and is but a wretched lost human being, living aimlessly in the flesh without promise of eternal life! Once we accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior we then have purpose and are adopted into the family of God! We embark upon a life of becoming enlightened, spiritual growth and being renewed as we apply His godly principles to our own lives. The Promise of Eternal Life waits as we grow spiritually realizing that we are forever “becoming…” As long as there is breath in the body there is Hope! NEVER underestimate the POWER of the LORD! “What is impossible with man is POSSIBLE WITH GOD!
God intended for Christianity to be a daily lifestyle centered on Him! Christianity consists of the process by which we can learn the origins of man and draw closer to our Creator and Governor of the universe! We can discover more about the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit and commence to live life to daily please the LORD! It is the “GOOD NEWS GOSPEL!” The central tenet in the Christian Faith is our belief in JESUS CHRIST and HIS WORD. He actually was God incarnate within sinless human flesh. The world was spoken into existence through Jesus! He actually became the WORD wrapped in flesh! “In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was GOD. He was with GOD from the beginning. Through HIM ALL things were made; without HIM nothing was made that has been made. In HIM was life, and that life was the LIGHT of men…” John 1. Acceptance of Him as Lord and Savior is a definite requirement for all Christians. He reconciles us to the Most High God and gives us the gift of Salvation and the inheritance of Eternal life!
Secular Beliefs
Let’s take a momentary glance into the secular perception of religion from a widely respected source. Dr. Sigmund Freud, who is well known for his psychoanalytical theories, perspective on religion says:” Religious faith produces a repression of impulses and thus keeps the personality secure at the expense of honesty.” He is recognized as the father of “Psychoanalysis.” He also developed many of the concepts in *Psychology.” It is here the mind and behaviors are studied.
“Psychology is the study of the mental processes and behavior. The term psychology comes from the Greek word psyche meaning “breath, spirit, soul” and the logia meaning “study of.” Psychology emerged from biology and philosophy and is closely linked to other disciplines including sociology, medicine, linguistics and anthropology.
Freud believed that the actual drive-oriented nature is overlooked because the aspect of human nature has long been suppressed by religion. People in their insecurity begin to look for a cosmic father in order to compensate for their feelings of inferiority and insecurity. Freud also believed that religious activities are rituals of compulsive behavior that are employed to temporarily ease the intense guilt feelings that are fostered by religion. Likewise Christians neurotically try to free themselves of guilt feelings by performing religious rituals. Freud also maintains that the dependency fostered by religion causes infantile regression.
Much to my dismay there is a minuscule element of truth in what Freud believed in regards to religion. I do not personally embrace his theories of psychology. But many do hide behind the guise of religion. There is a tendency to project a façade where things appear to be alright. They often go along with the majority and conform in order to feel connected to their particular group but remain insecure within themselves as an individual… There is often much ambivalence and unrest in their conscious relationship to God personally. They feel distant from Him trying to fill the inner void with some of everything!
Whenever the soul is not really anchored; the philosophies in regards to the origins of man becomes a playground for answers.
Whenever GOD is not the center of religion one can regress into this sea of uncertainty. Nothing is infallible and there is much doubt as to what has already been proven to be true! What was wrong becomes right and therefore one becomes polluted by the world. The world continues to migrate further and further away from God as Creator and the principles of His Word. Many religious folks modify His Word to adjust to the current desires of society. We can learn much from the Word of God. When His principles are abandoned there is a downward shift in the overall moral standards.
The Bible does not contradict itself! The New Testament has fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament! There is no other book like the Bible! It is an extraordinarily remarkable library of infallible spiritual wisdom that is inculsive of 66 books! It cannot be fully grasped by the intellectual mind alone. One must solicit the Holy Spirit to intervene and illuminate the significant meanings of its plethora of Scriptures. It is also the all time best seller! In order to not be lead astray it is important to know for yourself what the Word of God says! We as Christians believe and accept the TRUTH of GOD’S WORD by FAITH! This is why we are called “Believers.” When Christians follow the ways of the world rather than embrace the Word they usually have not actually taken the time to build an up close personal intimate “one on one” relationship with the Lord.
It is only with the Lord can one discover true “Security & Significance!” There is a tendency to encourage focusing on the outer rituals and traditions rather than to intrinsically search within to see where the true problem lies to resolve any inner conflict. The inner anxiety or unresolved issues can then become ongoing baggage that is carried throughout life producing anxiety when it is not addressed. God wants us to become whole! He wants us to take responsibility for our actions and take a stand for our rights. He wants to write His laws upon our hearts! Inner Peace can be experienced when one readily repents (turns from) any wrong behavior and moves forward… God does not want us bogged down in guilt nor shackled to any uncivilized or inappropriate behavior. He wants us to be FREE! There are very good reasons why He has said DO NOT do some things! The world says do as you please! God wants us to become disciplined! A disciple is a learner! God wants to deliver us from whatever hinders us from growing spiritually and becoming all that He created us to be He wants us to; “Take My yoke upon you and learn of me. For I am gentle and humble of heart and you will find rest for your soul…” Matthew 11. This is why He has given us JESUS CHRIST to “SAVE” us from the power of sin reigning within our daily lives! GOD IS MORE THAN ABLE!
Jesus died to take upon Himself the sins of the world and make it possible for us to become directly reconnected back to GOD! Sin had widened the abyss between God and man. The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit are One! Jesus His only begotten Son humbled Himself to come to earth. He was completely Divine! Shaped in the image of GOD in the form of a man covered in sinless flesh, He overcame sin for us because He loved us so! Jesus bridged the gap between God and man and became the only “PERFECT” flawless example! He arose with ALL power and took away the sting of death and sin. His Holy Spirit is our Comforter! We can now go straight to GOD wherever we are at anytime. He knows everything past, present and future about everyone and everything! This is why we all need Jesus Christ as Savior and LORD! He can and will make a significant difference in our life! God wants and up close and personal relationship with each one of us! We were created for HIS GLORY! Now that’s LOVE!
Prayer is communication with GOD and we need to regularly spend quality time with Him! His Word tells us in I Thessalonians 5; “Pray without ceasing, give Thanks in ALL circumstances, for this is God’s Will for you in Christ Jesus.” This is a continual mode of interacting with the Lord! We are able to consistently become aware of HIS PRESENCE! There is nowhere we can go that God is not… As the people of GOD, there must be a growing daily focus on our personal relationship with the LORD that becomes more an more natural. We are able to grow spiritually each day. God’s Church is collectively all over the world made up of a diverse multiplicity of people of all races, colors and creeds that believe His Word! Whenever are wherever we come together and assemble as His Church we will be much more effective when we have spent time with Him throughout the week! We are to apply His principles to our own lives and allow Him to guide us as He works out the kinks in our lives. Life is about becoming “perfected” which means to become completed in Him! We can invite Him into the “Messiness” of our lives! We can also worship Him more freely as we draw near to Him! Worship becomes a part of our daily lifestyle.
I truly believe that it is the intentions of many to have God’s will done in their life. The desire to please man and to be accepted often supersedes the spiritual responsibility to be led by the Spirit. This is where the conflict lies… There is much spiritual warfare to entice believers away from GOD and to keep non believers from embracing God personally and intimately! We learn in Genesis that God created us in His own image. (I don’t mean looking like Him) In essence we are spiritual and relational beings. We have been created for God’s purpose. Until we arrive at the point that helps us realize just that, we can often unconsciously create more adversity and anxiety in our lives trying to adapt and please man. This in turn can and will at times create a mental deficiency because the deep void remains. This void can be filled by many things. But they never really will quite satisfy. God has a place within us that only He can fill. Ideally speaking; did you know that if we were all following the Lord we truly would be on one accord. There would also be a lot less schisms and division within the Body of Christ!
Religion ritualistically practiced often focuses on the exterior. Encouraging others to worship in a way they deem appropriate by their denomination or non denomination at a certain time rather than ascertain a truly intimate relationship with the Lord. What do you mean? A few examples! If you are too quiet you can be perceived as standoffish and unemotional! If you don’t speak in tongues you don’t have the Holy Spirit! If you wear makeup you are being carnal… If you don’t pay tithes… If you do not wear long dresses or cover your head… If you don’t come to the service every Sunday… If you shout and pray loud you are… If you are quite emotional it can be perceived as being more spiritual… If you are… The point is worship is personal and the object of our worship should be the LORD. The wonderful thing about God is HE KNOWS ALL of our hearts! God wants you to be the best You! Conforming to be accepted can leave one with an ever greater void. The Word tells us the proper way to worship God is to be led by His Holy Spirit! Remember! “GOD is a SPIRIT and HIS worshipers must worship HIM in SPIRIT and in TRUTH!” John 4.
In many cases it is not said in an audible language, yet there is a penalty for not adhering to what is expected, sometimes resulting in labeling or alienation. Many are far few and in between that have truly experienced the unconditional Love that is so often spoken of. This is nothing new, way back when even the Samaritans, Gentiles and Jews differed in their concept of worship. This is why we currently in this 21st century have so many denominations and varied places of worship. It is important that your chosen place of worship does not compromise the Word of God! Know that ultimately God who is Love is really the only source of unconditional Love! He Loves us because HE is LOVE! It is in HIM you can experience TRUE LOVE, inner fulfillment and PEACE! Spend time each day growing closer to the Lord! The LORD has a purpose and plan just for you…