FAITH IS NOW!
January 7, 2020 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral,Emotional, and Spiritual Health
Faith Is Now!
“Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1. Faith is so important that it is mentioned over three hundred times in the BIBLE. To believe and have a firm persuasion in God is what faith is. Having Faith means much more than just to say you believe. It goes so much deeper! Faith is developed through prayer, devotion, and Bible Study. The actual application of God’s Word to your daily life is necessary.
Faith is also part of the Lord’s spiritual armor. It is “By Faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what is visible.” Hebrews 11:3. Faith is NOW not after the fact has materialized! “For we walk by Faith not by sight.” II Corinthians 5:7
Men and Women of Faith
When you truly trust God your Faith will see you through any and all circumstances or situations. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Esther and Rahab, are just a few examples of the many that trusted and had Faith in God. Deborah, Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets beheld many miracles, faced jeers, were stoned, saw walls fall, led many in victories, were persecuted, misunderstood, and mistreated. Yet they all accomplished their life purpose by trusting the Lord.
Take notice how they all sincerely aspired to live in the presence of the Lord. They had a personal and deep intimate personal relationship with Him. Hebrews commends them all for their Faith; “yet none of them received what had been promised.” It is by Faith we are strengthened inwardly! Jesus Christ dwells in our hearts through Faith.
FAITH is NOW!
Hebrew defines Faith as something you cannot see. “Faith without works is dead.” When your Faith is truly in GOD you trust that in His time He will fulfill whatever it is that He has said or promised. Take a moment to take an open and honest personal inventory of everything that is happening in your life. Guess what God already knows as well. Despite your circumstances; good, bad, or indifferent you can rest assured that your Faith makes all the difference in the world as to how you will now proceed.
In order to successfully run the race of life we must keep our focus upon the Lord. Laying aside any weight or sin helps us to run with endurance. When life hurdles appear God will impart to you His patience and direction. You can not change anything that has happened; “it is what it is.” As you fix your eyes on “Jesus, the Author and perfecter of our Faith” He will help you arise to the challenges as well as the celebrations of life.
Learn to Trust God
Your daily trust and reliance upon God is where your true security and significance should reside. This will give you sure footing and strong solid rock foundational spiritual roots to help you withstand the storms of life. Your joy in the Lord is where you will find strength when you keep your eyes on Him. The joy of the Lord is not contingent on your circumstance. FAITH is NOW!
The key to being a Christian is the Faith we have in Jesus Christ. Do you know the importance of His sacrificial death on the cross that atoned for our sins? It was so we could live life to please Him! Did you know our lives, our homes, our marriages, families and our worship should reflect we are His children? How do we do this? Titus tells us that “You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine. Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self controlled, and sound in Faith, love and in endurance. To teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good…”
God and His Church
Know that GOD does not live in a building made by hands. Although we can come together to worship him and acknowledge Him as GOD. Our GOD lives within the hearts of the believers all throughout the world who are HIS CHURCH. We are the ecclesia; meaning called out ones. The natural man or woman does not accept, value, nor understand the things of God. This is why the Word says to “let this mind be in you that was also in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 2. In order to understand the things of God it is crucial that you lay aside your way and your will and let His Word be a “lamp unto your feet and a Light to your path.” Psalm 119.
Having the proper perspective will teach you how very important it is to live life to its fullest and study His Word for His approval and not the approval of man. This is why we are told to “Trust in the Lord will all of our hearts and lean not to our own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He will direct our path.” Proverbs 3.
All too often God is an after thought or optional choice when dealing with life. This compromise often has favorable results with man; yet results in moving you away from God. Learn to wait on God and patiently seek His way. He can keep us on the Narrow Path that is less traveled.
Being A Christian is a daily Lifestyle
God’s way will give you peace and contentment that surpasses the understanding of man! God wants to be the Primary Force in your life. Being a Christian is really a chosen daily lifestyle. God does not force His way upon you. Nor does He manipulate. Faith produces commitment and faithfulness. You also know the importance of honoring your marriage vows as well. You made those vows not only to your spouse but to God. It means to sincerely and earnestly attempt to live life to please God.
Commence to truly daily live, Pray, Preach, Proclaim, Sing, Worship and Praise Him. It really makes all the difference in the world! “LET the WORD of Christ dwell in You richly as You teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as You sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in Your hearts to God. And whatever You do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving THANKS to God the Father through Him” Colossians 3.
Learn How to Trust God
God always has a better way. According to Ephesians 1 He has already blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places. As His child we have been sealed and promised the gift of His Holy Spirit. God truly is faithful you can always count on Him! Now you must trust Him and step out on Faith. Remember Faith is not something that you can see. Always remember, you must exercise patience and your Faith and trust must rely within Him.
Hebrews teaches us; “Without Faith it is impossible to please God!” His Word tells us if our Faith is; “as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you” Matthew 17. The key to this is you must desire His will to be done. It is with God we can do the impossible. This way He receives all the credit. Live: “To GOD be the GLORY!” God always keeps His promises. You can fully trust God to work everything out for your good.
God is Omniscient
Always keep in mind that absolutely nothing gets by God. He knows all that is past, current and will be. He is omniscient. Be encouraged knowing “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.” Know not everyone will be receptive to you. God always knows the intents of our hearts. It is by Faith and patience we inherit His promises.
We can patiently endure whatever is necessary because we know that God in His time will work everything out for our good. It is by Faith we accept His precious gift of eternal life. One of the most important elements in life is having Faith in GOD. “Without Faith it is impossible to please Him, for he, who comes to GOD, must believe, that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11.
FAITH Keep Looking UP!
GOD IS FAITHFUL
In His time you will reap the promises and He will give back, restore, refuel and replenish you in His time. God knows when you are sincere. We are living in interesting times. It is always important to remember we are living in a Spiritual Warzone. But the battle is not ours. Just keep your eyes fixed on the Author and finisher of your Faith. God is able to “keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious presence without fault and with great Joy!” Jude. You can say Hallelujah anyhow!
GOD IS AWESOME; HE IS ABSOLUTELY; “AWEWONDERFUL!”
As I mentioned before Hebrews records in its “Hall of Faith” many Old Testament heroes who trusted in God and displayed their Faith in unique ways. We today, should also desire to be honorary members of; “God’s Hall of Faith!” Lay aside every weight and anything that hinders you from going forth in the Lord. Many seek the approval and acceptance of others. Know that the Narrow Path is the road less traveled.
Put your trust in GOD!
God never said it would always be easy. But He did say: “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things you have; for He hath said; I will never leave nor forsake thee. So, that we may boldly say; THE LORD IS MY HELPER, AND I WILL NOT FEAR WHAT MAN/WOAMN SHALL DO UNTO ME.” Hebrews 13
As long as we are on this side of Heaven there is more to learn. God continually perfects us. (which means GOD makes us complete in HIM) God’s approval is what matters most. He knows when we are faithful to Him. When we keep our vows He knows. Whatever we need and when, He also knows. God is faithful. When you truly believe; it will be a priority to daily live your life to please GOD! Faith results in faithfulness. Who or what are you faithful to? “Now Faith is the substance of being sure of what we HOPE for and certain of what we do not see. By Faith the Elders obtained a good report!”
FAITH IS NOW!
Getting Your Joy Back Part 5
October 30, 2019 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral,Emotional, and Spiritual Health
God’s Joy Can Sustain You!
When a trial comes you can still experience God’s Joy! As a matter of fact Isaiah says; “God will keep you in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on HIM.” In order for this to be so you must learn to Trust Him. This trust grows as you continuously develop an intimate personal relationship with God. As you begin to think about God as the ultimate Father your possibilities are limitless. This is why it is so important to have the Lord in your life. As you focus upon Him while going through God will then give you His peace to go through the conflict. God is a God of PEACE and JOY!
God really is able to keep you from falling. But if you are on the brink or simply disappointed or even a tad frustrated I think this song speaks in different ways to many. There is always room for improvement in all of us as long as the Lord has us on this side of Heaven. Regardless of where we are in our walk with the Lord, taking a Spiritual Bath in His Word is refreshing and exhilarating. It has marvelous miraculous cleansing power!I think you will be inspired. God can meet you wherever you are.
Let the Lord put a song in your heart
God can meet you wherever you are!
Wherever you are God knows. I know that He can get you wherever you need to be. So, If you are ever down and need a pick me up! PRAY! Then begin to actually put HIS WORD into practice. Praise and worship God consistently and regularly all through the day. I am beyond grateful for the Lord keeping me on the straight and Narrow Path.
God has uniquely designed each one of us. Everyone has a different testimony. But I am sure that there is some elements here in this song that is relatable. There is a song that I want to share with you. If you don’t have the strength ask Him for direction for He knows. The Words here are so profound and I am sure that wherever you are you will find some of the words helpful. This is one of the worship songs from the “Gospel Music Workshop of America”
“I Got My Joy back.”
I got my Joy back. I got a new lease on life. I got my Joy back, down in my soul. Since I let Him have full control. I’ll will let nothing separate me from His Love again. He restored my Joy and revived my soul again! Just like the prodigal son. I found myself in the hog pen. Oh, you know how satan can dress up sin, satan will make wrong seem right. That’s why we’ve got to stay Prayed up, and Focused, and keep looking to the LIGHT!
GOD’S JOY CAN SUSTAIN YOU!
God has been so good to me. I thought I was exempted from trials and tests. From a little child I’ve been abundantly blessed. Every materialistic thing, I wanted, My Mother had it for me there. But I Thank God she NEVER forgot to lead me to the House of Prayer. But when my test came, I stumbled, but I did not fall, I had the Holy Ghost, embedded within me. In God I did REJOICE. That He would lead me, and guide me, when I couldn’t see my way. Yes, He restored my JOY, and He revived my soul again!”
Through Christ Jesus you can do all things
I can truly say; “THE JOY of the LORD IS MY STRENGTH!” I know and realize that without the Lord I/we are nothing but just walking, breathing shaped formed dust. But Praise be to God He tells us through our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus “we can do all things.”
GOD truly can give you; “HIS PEACE that surpasses the understanding of man!” Patience is not a hallmark of our society. Tolerance is, but this is not the same thing as patience. Patience comes from God. “BE STILL & KNOW!” God’s grace is sufficient. Exercise your Faith knowing that; He is more than able in any and every situation. Yes, sometimes we will have to wait; Then like an eagle we can soar high above the clouds! We can always and forever trust God & His Word! Its time to move towards getting your JOY BACK! Remember; GOD IS FAITHFUL & HE ALWAYS KEEPS HIS PROMISES!
GOD’S JOY CAN SUSTAIN YOU!!!
True Beauty Comes From Within Part 3
March 26, 2019 by DeBorrah K. Ogans
Filed under Behavioral,Emotional, and Spiritual Health
Your true innate beauty is a marvelous gift from the Lord. It comes forth from a cavernously vast inner depth. Here you are encouraged to live life to the fullest with purpose. God has placed within our souls a void that only He can fill. So, make it a top priority to get to know God intimately. Life with the Lord becomes a wonderful journey. Always strive to be the “Best You with God by your side!” Then whatever comes your way instead of crumbling when adversity arises, life will thrust you to delve deeper in the Lord.
God is utterly amazing. I can never say enough God things about the Lord! He can provide a marvelously blessed sure unshakeable sound “Solid Rock” foundation.
When you have God in your life and a crisis arises you are better able to momentarily journey within and ponder. When you seek him diligently He will reveal your path forward. Always seek the “Will & Way” of the Lord above all others. Be patient, because this requires a walk of faith. Your faith will help you shake off any doubt, anxiety or fear. Trust comes to the forefront. ( Be prayerful and selective from whom you receive your spiritual counsel… ) You won’t have to act happy; because you can be happy. You can also be disappointed at times but this does not become the theme of your life. You assess the situation and are able to bounce back… The LORD will HELP you to become resilient! Your desire to respond properly then naturally emerges. You will then embark upon a quest to rise to the occasion and seek a favorable resolve to persevere. Self-control is a marvelous virtue.
True Beauty goes far beyond the surface. Yes, we can wear beautiful clothes but that does not make us beautiful. It is merely a preferred style of clothing we select to cover our bodies. It’s your choice but be mindful of the message you are sending… Ladies not everyone needs to see your jewels. So be mindful of those low necklines as well as those extra short hemlines. Be mindful how tight you wear your clothes as well. This is true regardless of your size.
What message are you sending in wearing your clothes extra skin tight? Now if you are going deep sea diving of course that is quite appropriate. Of course it is always your choice? Being classy and discrete is far better. As you age do so gracefully… This varies depending on the individual. Classic designs don’t tend to be trendy. There is a vast assortment of fabrics and styles to cover yourself tastefully… That allow you the freedom to express you. In this day and age people wear some of everything everywhere. To be fashionable nowadays some even buy torn up clothes to wear. Go figure? So don’t dress for other people.
Nor should you live for other people. If you really want to truly be happy, live each day to please God. Then you will not so readily jump to conform to everything and everyone. The Word of God is powerful it
Our body is a
Guess what when people talk behind your back? They are talking in front of God! Be willing to stand upon God’s principles regardless as to what they say or don’t say. God does not consult people to determine how He wants to bless us… Always keep in mind who’s you are; we serve and omniscient God. He will show you what to do and what not to do. Listen more to Him and less to them. God is true to His Word. Know without doubt; God always takes care of His own.
True beauty is not worn it cannot be put on nor taken off. It is from this rich place deep inside from which a wellspring comes forth. Here one discovers and retrieves the veiled beauty that has been pre-positioned in one’s soul.
I believe as a woman
Each of us are uniquely created
God has made us tri-dimensionally. We are body, mind
“For you created my inner most being, you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. ALL the days for me were ordained…” Psalm 139
Yes, there is also a surface beauty that one can see but sometimes you will find that it does not always go very deep. Learn to spend some quiet time in the presence of the Lord. Momentarily from time to time deny yourself
Don’t let others control you by remote and push your buttons. Learn to respond
In times like these you do want to be cognizant of what is going on around at all times. Truly we are in the “Last Days” and some of anything and everything is going everywhere. Nothing is no longer sacred to many… You also want to be aware of what is being said to you or around you. Proceed with caution whenever necessary.
The hardest thing for some people to do is be quiet and still. They will often speak without thinking it through. Or purposefully say things to attempt to set you off. They can at times even get physical… This is the case when discipline is not yet embedded into the essence of one’s soul. They have to work harder at learning how to discipline themselves. But praise be to Christ Jesus with HIM; “ALL things are possible!”
I Peter says, that in order for our beauty not to fade away it has to come from our “ inner self, the unfading beauty of a quiet gentle spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” This does not mean one has to become silent or passive, nor a doormat, but rather it is a quite proactive mode. Nor does it mean that as a woman you have to be loud, argumentative and abrasive. Know, that quite often under those tough harsh, hard exterior veneers there is a very fragile soul.
Yes, the Lord wants us to be observant of what is going on around us. HIS WORD teaches us “to observe all things…” But know without doubt; we don’t have to fear when we know HE IS WITH US.
Your true “security & significance” comes from a deep place that yields natural discipline and self-control. It is a gift from the Lord. As long as the Lord has us on this side of Heaven it is to grow. Although we must
Reflected within our lives and upon the countenance of our faces is the hope of assured Victory in Christ Jesus! “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayers…” Occasionally take some time away from everything and look deep within. Seek God’s approval over the approval of others… Your best rewards will always come from Him. God knows absolutely everything about all of us. It is utterly amazing what God will show you. It is important to learn to yield to the will of the Lord. He will never ask us to do anything that goes against His Word! God is infinite our finite minds cannot fully comprehend the depth of His vastness. He truly is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is the Alpha & Omega the Beginning & the End. Above Him is no other. In Him you can discover everything that you will ever need.
Always remember; “it is in Him we live and move and have our being…” WOW!!!
Each day is a precious “Gift” from the Lord! “Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you…” Live and strive to become all the Lord has created you to be. God is absolutely “AWEWONDERFUL!” God truly wants to be a part of every area of our lives. Embrace His Word with passion continually pressing onward and upward. God’s Word will make you think spiritually. He is the Sustainer & Giver of life. Seek to live to patiently grow in His grace and thrive knowing that He will never leave nor forsake you.
Life is but a vapor. Time is valuable. So spend less time in foolishness or in regrets. Make spending time with the Lord a priority. Learn to; “… Be in the world but not of the world …” Take a Spiritual bath in His Word regularly. This is how you get clean from the inside out. This way you
Yes indeed, always remember: “True Beauty Comes From Within!”
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).”