Saturday, April 11, 2009

You Are What You Think

Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.

Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.

When you think about it, what you think has a lot to do with your actions. Our text indicates that as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. So in essence, what you think is what you are.

The thought life is the beginning of victory or the beginning of defeat. Victories are won and lost here. The battle starts here and is won or lost here. Much is said in God’s Word about our thoughts and what we do with them.
You are not going to be victorious if you are always walking in a defeated attitude. You will not even fight because you see yourself as having already lost the battle, but it doesn’t have to be this way. God has a better way for us His children. As a matter of fact He has already set the example for us in His thoughts toward us.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

If God will not think bad or evil thoughts toward us, who are we think bad or negative thoughts toward ourselves? We shouldn’t. As a man
thinks in his heart, so is he.

We need to think about the good in people instead of focusing on the bad. We often tear others down by thinking only on their bad traits when we need to think of the things that they are doing good and use
them as the foundation to lift them up.You cannot think about the things of this world and expect the things of God to come out of you. As a man thinketh, so is he. What’s on your mind today? What have you been thinking about? If you are not thinking on things that are just, lovely, pure or of a just report, change your thinking………God Loves You and so do I……Pastor Tammy Mitchell

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Faithfulness: In the midst of Recession

FAITHFULNESS: IN THE MIDST OF RECESSION

The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) , the group that determines the official dates for periods of economic expansions and contractions has identified 32 U.S. recessions since the mid-1850s.

NBER records show that, over the period from the mid-1940s until 2007, the average recession lasted 10 months, while the average expansion lasted 57 months, giving us an average business cycle of 67 months or about 5 years and seven months

The shortest recession between the mid-1940s and 2007 lasted only six months, from January to July 1980. The two longest recessions during the period lasted 16 months each, one extending from November 1973 to March 1975, and the other from July 1981 to November 1982.

For nations, businesses, and individuals, it's reasonable to see a recession as a time of possibility, even with a few benefits. The Word of God will always be a very helpful and practical guide to issues that pertain to everyday life. I want to encourage you that even in the midst of the recession, continue being faithful. The word faithful means to be trustworthy. Continue to be a person that your family, your community and your church can count on during these times. I know that times are difficult. But we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Love and Mercy meet together and righteousness and peace kiss each other. (Psalm 85:10) God’s faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 119:90) Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for. (Prov 16:6) A fruit of the spirit is faithfulness (Gal 5:22)

The recession will end at an appointed time, just as the previous 32 recessions have. Will there be anyone to stand and say I remained faithful and committed to my responsibilities to God, myself, my family and friends.

Here are a few things to help remind us to remain faithful.

1. God is Faithful. (Duet 7:9)
2. His faithfulness continues through all generations
3. Faithfulness is a fruit of the Spirit
4. Through Love and Faithfulness sin is atoned for
5. He who is faithful in the least will be faithful with much (Luke 16:10)
6. God requires that a man be found faithful (1 Cor 4:2)
7. If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins.

We cannot blame God for the condition of our economy. He did not tell us to go in debt, nor did he tell us to buy things we could not afford. He has given mankind a free will. He allows us the freedom to make choices about our life on a daily basis. The law of gravity says everything that goes up must come down. We must realize that every decision has a consequence; and decisions in the past have washed up on the shores of today. We are a blessed nation! Some of us have had an overabundance of things while others struggle to make it. I wonder how much thought we give to other nations who are at a disadvantaged just to obtain clean drinking water. By all definitions of the word they have been in a continual recession, for quite some time. This is not the time to pull back, be fearful or give up. Be strong in the Lord and the Power of His Might. And look for the day when the Lord will utter these words: Well done my good and Faithful Servant. Be Faithful!!!! And God loves you and so do I………….. Pastor Tammy


Saturday, March 28, 2009

What Makes God Sing?

No matter what we are going through today, the book of Zephaniah, Chapter 3 it tells us that God is in the midst. He is in the midst of our situations, and circumstances. The book of Zephaniah has three main themes; it talks about the day of judgment, indifference to sin and day of cheer.

As we have read in the book of Zephaniah God does not take sin lightly, and it will be punished. But be encouraged by the words of hope, that our God reigns and he will rescue his own. Jesus told us I will never leave you nor forsake you.

There are times in my own life when I felt all alone and I had to go to the word of God. I had to remind myself that my feelings are not always accurate but that God’s word is true. He states in the book of Psalms he holds His word above His name. (Psalm 138:2)

Zephaniah knew the people needed an internal transformation. They did not need to turn over a new leaf, they needed a new life. He called the Children of Isreal together to take a look at their hearts, their motives, their desires and even their private lives. What about us? This is our time, we are alone with God and he is speaking? What is he saying? Are we listening?

It is not easy to confront difficult issues. Regardless of how hopeless a situation may become, God’s word offers a plan and if we repent and walk in that plan, we bring joy to the heart of God. We give God something to sing about.

Today, I want to encourage you to stand on the promises of God. He has never broken a promise or told a lie. The book of Zephaniah tells us he will save us, he will rejoice over us with joy, he will rest in his love, and he will joy over us with singing. That’s right God is singing over us.

Have you ever been in love with someone and that special person tried to sing a song to you to express how he or she felt. Well God does the same thing. He has joy when he thinks about us. You might be thinking you don’t know the things I have done. My friend it really does not matter, if you repent and ask for God’s forgiveness, you will bring joy to the heart of God and he will save you and he will start singing over you. God tells us in his word we are the apple of his eye (Psalm 17:8) And he who touches you is touching the apple of his eye (Zech 2:8)

If we know that God Loves us, then ought we to love him also. The word declares if we love him we are to keep his commandments.(St. John 14:15). Shhhhhhhh. What’s that I hear? I believe God is calling your name and singing a song. Take a moment and talk to him, perhaps you have a song you would like to sing to HIM………. Be Blessed. God Loves You and So do I.......Pastor Tammy

Monday, March 23, 2009

Renew Your Strength

Renew Your Strength

Isaiah 40: 31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Even the most inspired Christians can, from time to time, find themselves running on empty. The demands of daily life can drain us of our strength and rob us of the joy that is rightfully ours in Christ. When we find ourselves tired, discouraged, or worse, there is a source from which we can draw the power needed to recharge our spiritual batteries. That source is God.

As time goes on, people in general live more and more in a state of great worry. Indeed our time is full of unpredictable events; in the current world, numerous circumstances are creating a lot of trouble and turmoil. And yet God created this earth and mankind with a most precise aim in mind. In this transitional period, God is saying some things to his people.

Even the strongest people get tired. But God’s power and strength never diminishes. He is never too tired or too busy to help or to listen. His strength is our source of strength. When we feel that all of live is crushing us and we can’t go another step. Remember that you can call on God to renew your strength. We all need regular times to listen to God. Waiting on the Lord is expecting his promised strength to help us rise above life’s distractions and difficulties. Listening to God helps us be prepared when he speaks. Be patient when he asks us to wait and expect him to fulfill his promises found in his word.

Ps 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

God is not a temporary retreat. He is our eternal refuge and can provide strength for any circumstances. His power is complete; and victory is certain. He will not fail to rescue those who love him.

Waiting is one of the hardest things for us to do. Yet God asks us to wait on him and as we do our strength will be renewed. Today, like every other day, is literally brimming with possibilities. Whether we realize it or not, God is always working in us and through us; our job is to let Him do His work without undue interference. Yet we are imperfect beings who, because of our limited vision, often resist God’s will. And oftentimes, because of our stubborn insistence on squeezing too many activities into a 24-hour day, we allow ourselves to become exhausted or frustrated, or both. Are you tired or troubled? Turn your heart toward God in prayer. And while you’re at it, pray for the wisdom to simplify your life. When you do, you’ll discover that, with God as your partner, you can accomplish the important tasks He places before you today, tomorrow, and every day of your life. Be strong in the Lord and the Power of His Might. Live Well, Laugh Often, Love Much. Blessings on you. God Loves You and so do I. ...Pastor Tammy


Saturday, March 14, 2009

A Better use of 4 letter words

A Better use of “Four” Letter Words

There is a better way to use 4 letter words. Four letter obscenities are used more and more in our society, in the movies and even in our homes. Some may even suggest using 4 letter obscenities help them find a release with stress and tension. It is a temporary relief at best. More than likely, after using these 4 letter words, the user will still have to face the same challenge, situation or circumstance; yet without a different perspective or at least from a different point of view, they can still end up frustrated or stressed out.

Today I would like to discuss 10 four letter words to help you find inner strength, and a healthy mental attitude all day long. Don’t worry if you cannot remember all ten. Remember the ones that “jump” out at you and practice those and watch God strengthen you in the inner man. Your life is a precious gift and is meant to be celebrated.

1. Look. Look squarely at the nature of your problems. Keep looking for the right solutions. Look around you for opportunities. Look for ways to improve your life in every area. Be alert, look for better ways to get some things done.
2. Face. You will never change what you will not face. Jesus had to face some things, and he is our example. Find the courage to face one thing you have been putting off and be determined to accomplish it today.
3. Life. Celebrate Your Life. Jesus came that we would have an abundant life. How are you today? What do you think about your life? Are there some areas that need improvement? Do you feel that you are wasting your life or are you being productive using all the gifts and talents that God has given to you to bring him glory? Begin thanking God that he has a “good plan” for your life and you are ready to receive it. Step back, keep believing and watch what happens.
4. Work. Nothing will so fortify you against stress as hard, constructive work. It helps you forget yourself. An idle mind is the devil’s workshop !!!
5. Time. There is a season (an appointed period) and a time (a predetermined occurrence) for all that takes place under the sun. Seeming chance events are all part of a huge plan. Timing is important. The secret to peace with God is to discover, accept and appreciate God’s perfect timing.
6. Give. Give and it shall be given. Give yourself to people. Be genuinely interested in their problems and in the process you'll overcome reluctance and weariness.

7. Help Everyone needs help at one time or another. Look for ways to help someone in need. Ask God everyday to place someone in your path that you can help. Remember help comes in many forms, it doesn’t always have to be monetary.

8. Word. Read your bible daily. The words in it are spirit and they are life.

9. Pray. Prayer connects you with spiritual power, builds up your inner strength. Men and women ought always to pray and faint not. In everything we are to give thanks. Pray without ceasing.
10 Love. It nourishes and restores you. Love is taking a phone call at three o'clock in the morning. It is going the second mile in caring for people. One way to put love into action is to take initiative in meeting a specific need for someone.

Be blessed today! God Loves You and so do I..….. Pastor Tammy

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Domestic Violence Hurts Everyone

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HURTS EVERYONE

Have you or someone you know been a victim of domestic violence? Recent headlines of domestic violence include Rhianna and Chris Brown, both secular song artists and Prophetess Juanita Bynum and Bishop Thomas Weeks. This is an indication that domestic violence occurs inside and outside of the church. Statistics state one out of every 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. Domestic violence does not just occur against women, but it also occurs to men.

Domestic violence constitutes the willful intimidation, assault, battery, sexual assault or other abusive behavior perpetrated by one family member, household member, or intimate partner against another. Amazingly, men who kill the women they abuse receive a prison sentence of 2-6 years while a woman who kills her abuser can receive a prison sentence of up to 15 years.

Domestic violence affects not only those abused, but witnesses, family members, co-workers, friends, and the community at large. Children who witness domestic violence are victims themselves and growing up amidst violence predisposes them to a multitude of social and physical problems. Constant exposure to violence in the home and abusive role models teaches these children that violence is a normal way of life and places them at risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Domestic violence crosses every racial, economic and social line. Domestic violence is about power and control. There are different types of domestic abuse. There is verbal abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse and sexual abuse.

Domestic violence victims may minimize the seriousness of incidents in order to cope, and not seek medical attention or assistance when needed. Victims, because they fear the perpetrator and may be ashamed of their situation, may be reluctant to disclose the abuse to family, friends, work, the authorities, or victim assistance professionals. As a consequence, they may suffer in silence and isolation.

Things to do if you or someone you know or suspect of being abused:
Contact a local domestic violence program. These programs are in many communities around the country and can provide: counseling and support groups; information about legal options, the criminal justice system, and social services; shelter.

Create a comprehensive safety plan. With assistance from a victim service professional, victims should create an individualized plan for safety in all situations, including a checklist of necessary items to take when leaving an abusive situation.

Consider legal options. In every state, domestic violence is a crime.
Remember you were created in the image of God. And God asks each of us to love our neighbor as ourselves. You are not alone! There is a lot of help available for you. Pease visit www.sistertosister.name for additional resources and www.sistertosister.mypodcast.com God Loves You & So do I.

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Mountains Can Be Moved

Matt 21:21-22 (NIV)
Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

Mountains are any obstacles or barriers we may encounter in life. Are you facing a situation or circumstance that is weighing heavily upon your mind and spirit? Maybe its an employment situation or even a health crisis? Do you try and seek peace and cannot find any? There is a word for you today; Mountains can be moved. Christ tells us that power comes through faith and prayer. The Lord wants us to know that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Three things are noted in the above scripture. We need faith. We must not doubt; wonder, question or be concerned as to whether a thing can be done or not. Thirdly we need God’s authority. The power of Christ came from the authority of God. All he had to do was speak the word. This is not about positive thinking or confessions. It is about declaring God’s Word as the final authority over any obstacle, barrier or mountains that we encounter while on this journey called Life. There is life and death in the power of the tongue. The Lord wants us to grow in trust and belief in him, his word and his power.

How can we truly believe we can move mountains without a personal relationship with the Lord? We must have a personal relationship with God. We must continue instant in prayer. When we possess a personal relationship with God, our prayers should be in harmony with God’s will for his kingdom. I would like to leave you with these final thoughts. With God all things are possible. Mountains can be moved, with prayer and faith. Ask and it shall be given, seek and you shall find, knock and the door will be open. If you believe you can receive. Start speaking to those mountains.

5 keys that will help you move the mountains you may be facing.

1. Power comes through faith and prayer
2. God’s supernatural power is available to us; but it is conditional
3. Prayer is the vehicle and faith is the energy and it takes both to reach your destination
4. Faith stirs prayer and communion with God
5. Believe that with God all things are possible.

A Divine blessing from a divine Diva. God Loves You and so do I.