I am Thankful for my Pastor Husband; the Father of our Children!

I am truly thankful for my Husband. He has been quite wonderful. We have shared many marvelous memories. The Lord has knitted our hearts together in His Love. I daily thank & praise God’s Holy Name for HIS Everlasting Love is priceless.

A Great Father &  Wonderful Man of God!

My husband has been a marvelous father. He respectfully nurtured and engaged our children as they were growing up. We worked harmoniously together.  He has been a great role model. I am thankful that by the grace of God we raised our children in a great home environment.

Our mountaintop  experiences  far outweigh  the moments in the valley.

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.

“GOD WILL FIGHT YOUR BATTLES”

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

GOD has thankfully allowed us to: “GO ye therefore into the world…”

I am grateful to know that the Lord is omnipresent & I have “BLESSED ASSURANCE” knowing that everywhere I/we are HE is there. We take seriously  GOD’S “CALL” upon our lives as His Elders/ Ministers & Ambassadors. 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/Pastor 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 as well as a compassionate friend. Loving, strong, patient, firm, protective, at times unyielding and yet kind with our children. We together share a  loving symbiotic union.

He as an Elder can preach, proclaim, teach  and diligently stand upon the Word of God. He is unique in his delivery. Yet, he also embraces what he speaks and teaches. He is cognizant of the responsibility to reach those he is speaking to as he spiritually feeds and ministers to them the Word of God. He patiently, emotionally  and aggressively  is mindful to leave them with a desire to want to know more about the Lord as  the Holy Spirit  ministers to their souls.

A Marvelously skilled Master Minister of Music

To the glory of God  he has seriously and  patiently directed and ministered to many choirs.  He has taught them the importance of  “harmonic blending”   to the degree you can hear a melodic ring when the harmony is on point.  Whenever they learn a song they know who and what they are singing about.  This is not for show but to put forth an effort to always  magnify our Lord in a grand way.  For God deserves our best. And He always deserves our sincere praise!

It is  his God given  gift to 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!”

“THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE!”

“Your Gift will make room for you…” Proverbs 18 ~

He has also excelled in the world of technology.  As an astute business man he has been an overseer and managed and mentored and trained many professional project managers within the corporate world.  No doubt he is indeed a natural born leader.  His innate temperament is extraordinary, flexible and resilient.  This has enabled him to be  able to relate to a plethora of cultures, 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, rebuke  and stand upon GOD’S WORD without compromise. 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 and flourish. We do not take the Lord for granted. Nor do we take one another for granted. We are thankful for the spiritual “ONESSNESS” we have been given in the Lord!  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  covenant 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 sickness and in health and the valley or upon the mountaintops.

TRULY GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!

So thankful to  the LORD for there has certainly been much less times in the valley…  There has been numerous mountain top experiences that we will forever cherish.  We are thankful for the life we  have in the Lord.  I THANK the LORD for teaching us how to work together to bring up our children in a home of love, patience, understanding & peace.  Marriage should be unity in action.  To also work together in ministry and business. The Lord’s presence is evident for; “Where two or three are gathered together in my name I am in the midst…” Matthew 18

“I always say: ” I LIVE BEFORE AN AUDIENCE OF ONE!”

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 EVER HIDDEN TO HIM!

Together we have experienced “PERFECTION in the LORD” which simply means to be COMPLETE in HIM. We are forever growing in HIS grace as long as HE has us on this side of Heaven.  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!  CHRIST JESUS IS OUR BEST WITNESS

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.” Psalm 37 That are in HIS WILL for you…

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

Always keep in mind GOD knows our thoughts motives and intentions. So 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.  Learn to be content knowing that GOD is omniscient. Take some time daily to draw closer to the LORD for HE WILL teach you how to “guard your heart” with diligence. Psalm 3

In closing I suggest;

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 daily within your hearts. You must learn to give up “Me”ness for “We”ness! A great marriage is possible but it takes, love,  dedication, discipline, faithfulness, longsuffering, prayer, sacrifice, unselfishness, work & responsibility. Furthermore marriage is about mutual team work apart or together. 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.  Embrace Love!

Your marriage should be a reflection of Your LOVE for GOD!

Truly the LORD is my/our  Forever Good Shepherd. We are living in an ever changing world that continues to move further and further away from God’s principles. Know this; Marriage God’s Way Works! Keep God as the Center of your marriage.  Marriage in the eyes of GOd is; “HOLY MATRIMONY!” There are those who will do and say just about anything…  Yes, some 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, in your daily life and within your home. PRAY for DISCERNMENT! Stay connected to GOD & “PRAY without ceasing” all throughout your day.

TRULY GOD IS FAITHFUL! THANK YOU LORD for my Pastor husband the father of our Children. I Love You through ETERNITY. ~ Today & everyday; HAPPY FATHER’S DAY! ~

THANKSGIVING Means Much More Than Turkey

Did you know that Thanksgiving means so much more than Turkey & Dressing? Yes, it is a time to come together and enjoy a plenteous wonderful meal that has been prepared with lots of love. Yes, it is a time to come to gather together with family, friends and loved ones and give thanks. Yes, you can even remember that Christopher Columbus an Italian Explorer discovered the Indians in America. It has been recorded in history that he actually sailed across the Atlantic in order to find spices in India.

He sailed for King Ferdinand II and Queen Esabella of Spain. He had a fleet of three ships, the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria with an approximate crew of 90 from Palos Spain. He landed in a new world of the Americas. Many do not realize that Columbus initially had a twofold mission. He wanted to open trade routes and bring in the Word of Jesus Christ! He was named the “Admiral of the Sea” by the King and Queen. He is known for the man that discovered America. That is partially true? Yes, he too did get sidetracked. However, if the Truth be told he actually discovered the Indians!

As the settlers trickled in the atmosphere began to change. It has been said that a group of religious radicals called “Puritans” were pilgrim settlers that had been driven out of England. In 1614, explorers landed in an area called Massachusetts Bay. They actually eventually settled and built a colony called “Plymouth Plantation.” They were taught by Squanto the Indian how to survive by using corn in a plethora of ways for food. They were taught how to fish and use the herbs of the land. Plymouth was surrounded by the Wampanoag who were a large Nation of Indians. Eventually Squanto negotiated a peace treaty between the Indians and the settlers. They lived peaceable for about fifteen (15) years. It was at the end of the first year that a large feast was given. Squanto, their friends and the Indians were honored. The feast lasted for over three (3) days. It is here originates why we here in America celebrate Thanksgiving. How all too soon all was forgotten.

As word got back to England of the prosperity and peacefulness that they were experiencing in Plymouth, many people came by the boatloads. As there numbers increased the tension increased. There began to be a debate as to who possessed the land? The original agreement was cast aside. Since there were no fences, boundaries, land markers etc. (fences etc. are customs that originated in England.) The incoming settlers declared the land as “public domain” this meant it was their’s for the taking. With absolutely no respect for the current treaty between the Indians and the Puritans the newcomers began to seize and destroy the existing peace that had been established. All for the sake of becoming prosperous. Rather than share in the prosperity that had already been established they sought to destroy it and become prosperous themselves. They exiled the current Puritans and with scriptures in tow they overthrew the existing peace agreement. Then along with the use of British soldiers they captured and made many of the Indians slaves…. The rest is history….

I said this all to shed some light on a story that as a child I was taught that in 1492, Christopher Columbus discovered America? But if in fact you search the chronicles of history you will find that he actually, really discovered the Indians. We in America really celebrate Thanksgiving because of the peace treaty that was made between the Puritans and the Indians. Who collectively managed to come together and celebrate their treaty and new life together. If you are a Christian you should know that spiritually speaking Thanksgiving goes even further back than that! The scriptures are full of passages to tell us how we should work, love, live and be thankful for all that God has given us. He even gave His only Begotten Son that we might have a right to the tree of life. But just like the story of Christopher Columbus what was originally intended all too often gets set aside. The principles of this story has constantly repeated itself throughout history in so many ways. All too often what really happened is set aside and replaced with the partial truth.

God wants us to know the Truth of His Word. Life for the believer or child of God really should go much deeper. But all too often one settles for what is partially true. All too often the original agreement is forgotten and laid aside. This is why it is so very important to know the Lord and His Word for yourself. Ephesians 4 tells us; “not be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine, to the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the Head-Christ from whom the whole body joined and knit together by what every joint supplies,…….” Knowing the Word of God has its spiritual benefits. When truly taken to heart it motivates, grows and spiritually matures you, convicts, and encourages you to do and want to do things His way. Neither do you just settle for the partial truth or believe just any and everything. But you seek, desire to live and study His Word, apply the principles therein and live your life to please Him! To give thanks to Him each and every day!

God’s ways are far better. But all too often they are laid aside. Many are given and accept a partial story. Many are pressured by the need to be accepted by the majority, to suppress the truth, as well as their desire to dominate and control and have things done their way. One must earnestly seek the truth rather than settle for a partial truth or to be misled by how things appear. As God’s children we are encouraged to “seek Him first and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.” What things? Whatever things you need to fulfill his plan in your life will be provided. He did not say that this would be easy. Yet, we can and should be thankful for each and every day. You know regardless of what happens that He has everything under His control. That He is a Spirit of Truth! We can be thankful because you know without a doubt that all of His WORD is true! We then can truly celebrate Thanksgiving knowing that His Son Jesus Christ sacrificed His life for us. That we have been redeemed and purchased and belong to Him. That we are saved completely by His grace alone! The TRUTH really does set you free!

When you know that regardless of how things appear God knows! As I said earlier as a child I was taught that Christopher Columbus discovered America. But as I matured, I inquired and studied. I found out that that was only partially true. It was in fact the Indians he discovered. (For additional information read the history about the Wampanoag Indians.) The Truth will always stand the test of time. As God’s ever growing child I know that God has so much more for us in store. He does not want us to settle for less than the Truth. He wants us to study His Word and rightly apply the principles therein. He has promised to bring what has happened in the dark out to the Light. Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. His Word will be a “lamp unto your feet and a Light unto your path”. Do not be sidetracked or derailed by what you hear or how things appear. Know the Truth and His Word for yourself! Let it be your desire to want the things in life that the Lord wants you to have. To know what God wants you to know, to commit to His will and way and trust He will lead, guide and protect you. Know that nothing that happens in life gets by Him. This is why He says in the first Psalms “Do not walk in the council of ungodly people. Do not stand in the way of sinners. Nor sit in the seat of the scornful. But to delight yourself in the law of the Lord….” As a child of God you can rest assured as said in Romans; that in His time He will work out everything for your good, if you love Him and are called according to His purpose.” Too often what is right is laid aside. Man made institutions waiver. Since we live in an ever changing world your Faith and Trust must be in Him!

God’s Word is true. It is His desire that we grow in the grace and knowledge of His Word. To know Jesus Christ and the power of His Resurrection! That we are to be steadfast unmovable always abounding in His Word. Not only giving thanks when we eat or on Thanksgiving or Sunday. But each and everyday of our lives. We are told in Colossian 4; “Continue earnestly in prayer, being villigant in it with thanksgiving, meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the world, to speak the mystery of Christ, which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak, Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one..” God can and will make a way out of no way!

God truly is the DAYMAKER. Who else can make a day? True ministry goes beyond the walls! Christ came and His plan of salvation has been offered to all who will believe in their heart and accept Him as Lord of their life. We are to worship and praise the Lord each and every day. We are to live a life of worship. This is why we should live lives of thankfulness. To focus and set our eyes on Him regardless of what happens, has happened or will happen. To give thanks and know that He will give us today our daily bread…… Psalms 107 says; Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so……..” Not only on Thanksgiving but each and every day.

Yes it is a good thing to celebrate and give thanks! But know that Thanksgiving really does mean so much more than Turkey & Dressing. We who are the Lord’s must do as Psalms 100 tells us to enter into “His gates with thanksgiving. And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting. And His Truth endures to all generations. To God be the Glory!