Be Healed!

 

^John5:4-7

 For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had.

⁵ And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years.

⁶ When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?

⁷ The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.

⁸ Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.

⁹ And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.

In this scripture we see a man that sat at a pool waiting to be put in so he could be healed. He had been there a long time waiting, until Jesus, the savior and great healer asked him a very significant question, “Wilt thou be made whole?” It wasn’t until the man answered the question affirmatively, that Jesus healed him.

How many times do we stay in our own infirmities until we answer the question, “Wilt thou be made whole?” Oftentimes, we have excuses for not succeeding, getting healed or overall progressing in life and reaching our goals or dreams. Sometimes our excuse is that “we have nobody to help us, or we don’t have enough money, or we don’t have the time. Sometimes we just like the companionship of failure because it seems so hard to get up and succeed.

In these scriptures, we see that Jesus did not pay attention to the man’s excuse for not stepping into the pool and being healed. He very affirmatively told him to “Rise, take up thy bed and walk..”

It is time to rise up from whatever situation you are in and walk. You may have many excuses not to. You may even enjoy all the attention that not standing on your own, and not being healed or whole, brings you, but it is time to get up and walk. It is time to let go of fear, procrastination, lack ,etc and be healed! Be healed, not just in your body, but in your mind, in your finances, in your thinking, in your emotions and in every area of your life. As you answer the question, “Wilt thou be made whole?”, rise up quickly in your” spiritual man” and “Be healed!”

"Pass the Favor,Please!"

     I have often heard one of the television evangelists make the comment that "favor ain't fair!" When I hear that quote, my mind begins to reflect on the impartiality  of favor, for favor is not specific to any particular race, or gender. It doesn't cater to the young or old. Anyone can attract favor by virtue of the nature of his or her heart. I have discovered that negativity repels favor, but a kind and forgiving heart  attracts the very favor of God.
     Sometimes I want to hold on to hurts and nurse all of my "supposed" injustices, but what is real, is that licking wounds and reminiscing about  past mistreatment and insults only block the good that is already present in the hemisphere of one's reality. Goodness and mercy is already following us, but occasionally, the cloud of strife, nay saying and unbelief will shield us unwittingly from the companionship of these  remarkable twins.
     In essence, favor is fair  according to the law of sowing and reaping. If you plant corn, undoubtedly, you will not harvest cucumbers. Likewise, if you want to taste the rich fruit of favor, you have to fertilize your garden with the seeds of love,expectation, patience,etc. Hummmm, I can just taste it. Pass the favor, please!

How Excellent!

I was amazed  at the response from a person I ran into at the store today. When that person asked me  how I was doing and I said "excellent", he seemed offended. He went on to state that "no one is doing excellent....you may be doing good, but you are not doing excellent!" At this point, I just repeated," Yes, I am excellent." What the person didn't understand is that we serve an excellent God. In Him we move and have our being. Psalm 8:1 says " How excellent is thy name in all the earth." In Jesus' name I am doing excellent. No, I don't have a million dollars in the bank, but I'm not broke. All of my bills are not paid, but my lights are on.. I don't have everything that I want, but I do have all I need. I have my health and strength. I have food to eat. I woke up with love in my heart for all. I am not mad at anyone, and I pray for all: friends and enemies alike. I have joy in my soul. I am an "offspring of God".I would say again " I'm doing excellent!"

Psalm 8:1

O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! who hast set thy glory above the heavens.

Psalm 8:1-3 (in Context) Psalm 8 (Whole Chapter)


Acts 17:28

For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

Acts 17:27-29 (in Context) Acts 17 (Whole Chapter)

GOD ,OUR DELIVERER!

I have heard people say that "God does not put more on you than you can bear".  Actually, God is not the one who is afflicting you. It is the devil or satan. It is he who is roaming the earth seeking whom he can devour. It is his intent to steal, kill, and destroy, not God's! God is for us, so much so, that He sent His only Son to die so we might live. Jesus came to save the world, not to condemn it! Satan would have us think that his evil plans for us are from God. We are not to be fooled! God delivers us from the plans of the devil and his afflictions. God is not the perpetrator. Sometimes, God allows us to go through tribulations like He did with Job, but He is not the initiator. Sometimes we even reap some things because of what we have sown, but God is not to be blamed. God only gives us good gifts. Sometimes our own lusts of the flesh causes sin and consequently, death and destruction, but GOD IS OUR DELIVERER!

 James 1:15-17-
¹⁵ Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
¹⁶ Do not err, my beloved brethren.
¹⁷ Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

Psalm 34:19

Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.

Psalm 34:18-20 (in Context) Psalm 34 (Whole Chapter)

Love to You!

In these modern times, we have a tendency to take love lightly without forethought relative to the potency and potential healing effect that real love has. Real love does not just lie in the heart "for" a person. It reaches out "to" the person.We very loosely use the word to express our sentiments toward others, but real love moves beyond the lines of mere emotion or sentimentality. How well do you really know or care to know the "object of your affections"?  Do you know that person's favorite color? Do you know what makes them smile, or cry? Do you know their life's mission? Do you understand their true passion in life? Are you sensitive to their "heart's cry"? Real love requires familiarity that surpasses mere superficiality, but rather, searches and reaches the depth of the soul. In the book of Genesis in the Bible, Jacob labored for seven years for Rachel. How many are willing to labor to know the person that they seek a connection with? Are you willing to ask the questions? How you willing to make the real sacrifice that real love requires? Love that lasts requires more than just acquaintance with the flesh, but a journey into the spiritual realm where love surpasses the finite and trivial and embraces the eternal!Genesis 29:20 And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.Genesis 29:19-21 (in Context) Genesis 29 (Whole Chapter)

Still Laughing!

Many times you will face attacks by Satan in all kinds of forms. He will seem to be coming at you from all directions, but guess who will still be laughing even in the midst of the assaults? Yes, that's right! YOU!!!! I am a witness that no matter how hard enemies attack, even in the midst of trouble,  the dust of confusion, outright devilish assignments and character assassination attempts, God will give you joy over your enemies. You will have joy because of the covering of God. He will cover you   so that you will be so immune to Satan's tricks, that you will be able to dance with joy! When Satan thinks that he is laughing in your face, just know that you will not only have the last laugh, but you will have the first, second,third,etc.!!! Just keep in your heart and mind even in the middle of your struggles,that the joy of the Lord is your strength, according to Nehemiah 8:10:
Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:9-11 (in Context) Nehemiah 8 (Whole Chapter)
Note: When the devil comes to your door as if to look you in your face with the question, ":Aren't you dead,yet?" Tell him emphatically "NO!'  "I'M STILL LAUGHING.!!!!"

2 Chronicles 20:27

Then they returned, every man of Judah and Jerusalem, and Jehoshaphat in the forefront of them, to go again to Jerusalem with joy; for the Lord had made them to rejoice over their enemies.

2 Chronicles 20:26-28 (in Context) 2 Chronicles 20 (Whole Chapter)

Still!

 

 It is easy to just be busy: going here and traveling there, but sometimes there is a need to slow down and be still. There comes a time when you have to take a moment to listen to God, because in the haste of life, you can miss His directions or instructions if you are too encumbered. When you are still, you can see Him in action. You can see His plan for your life. You can see His power and His glory exalted above everything in the earth realm, even your troubles! Sometimes you just need to leave everything behind, and get to a place called "still"!

Psalm 46:10 King James Version (KJV)

¹⁰ Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

Who is Your Shepherd?

Someone recently called from another state. She was struggling with family resentment, criticism and outright lies against her character. Often in counseling sessions, I will ask questions to cut through the maze and get to the heart of the matter. This case was no different. I asked her very simply to reflect upon the 23rd Psalm which begins with "The Lord is my shepherd". Then, I asked her "Who is your shepherd?" Are you going to let trouble lead you or are you going to let the Lord lead you to green pastures and beside the still waters? Are you going to let the Lord restore your soul or are you going to let trouble lead you into heartbreak, depression and despair? At the end, we both were shouting "Gloooory!" It is up to us to decide. Are we going to let trouble lead us or the Lord? Who is your shepherd?

Stand!

There comes a point when I just have to stand up to my troubles or adverse circumtances and tell them what "thus saith the Lord". Like Moses, I have had to tell the trials what God said! You have to take a stand and decide that you are going to tell the Pharoh of debt, low self esteem, fear, doubt, drug addition, criticism, enemies or whatever, that God said to let you go! Exodus 8:20And the Lord said unto Moses, Rise up early in the morning, and stand before Pharaoh; lo, he cometh forth to the water; and say unto him, Thus saith the Lord, Let my people go, that they may serve me.
Exodus 8:19-21

When Faith Goes to Trial

Excerpt from Bible teaching- 2007- Mt. Carmel Baptist Church
What happens when our faith is truly put to the test like Abraham? Will we be found innocent or guilty? Will we be innocent of disobeying God or guilty of not having faith to proceed in the midst of unusual circumstances? Abraham faced unusual circumstances when God told him to kill his son; He only wanted to test his faith. Where do we stand when it comes to having faith in God? Do we believe that no matter what, God is going to see us through? Do we have faith in God or circumstances? How will we be found when our faith is tried: guilty or innocent?

Blessed!

Through every situation or circumstance, whether good or bad, one must know that he or she is blessed when they believe or have total faith in God. From personal experience, I know that sometimes it will not seem that you are blessed because so many unjust and seemingly terrible things are happening in your life, but even during the times you think God isn't there, He still is!Deuteronomy 7:13And he will love thee, and bless thee, and multiply thee: he will also bless the fruit of thy womb, and the fruit of thy land, thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep, in the land which he sware unto thy fathers to give thee.

New Strength!

God will give you new strength to overcome whatever test you have to face. I am a witness! Since the end of December of last year, there has been one test/battle/situation after another, but God has renewed my strength so that I could face each one. During these tests, I have gained the strength to endure seeing who is for me and who is against me. I already know that God truly is your help in the time of trouble, but have really experienced it lately during these trials. I have had to ask God to suit me up in His whole armour so I can stand against the evil plot of Satan because, like Job, I am going to hold on no matter what. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Ephesians 6:10-11 KJV

Look at God!

Sometimes I wonder why some people are so mean, self centered and just downright cruel. Then, God will remind me that instead of looking at them, look at Him!Halelujah!

It's Personal!

What I really like about having a relationship with God is His personal interest in me. He even knows the number of hairs on my head. That's how valuable I am to Him! Luke 12:7 says "But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows." Isn't that incredible? He also knows what makes me laugh,and what makes me cry. He knows all of my secrets, my deepest thoughts and my goals. He even knows who my enemies are and how to deal with them. He understands what my purpose is and most of all, He knows how to take care of me! It's personal!

Checked!

One thing I realize is that the word of God can check you. It will show you who you really are. It is like looking into a freshly polished lighted mirror. You can see the crumbs around your mouth and maybe even some toothpaste on your lips when you look into the right mirror/ the one that has the proper lighting. Maybe in your living room mirror, you cannot see clearly, but when you look into the bathroom mirror, you can see yourself plainly. That is how it is when you look into the right mirror. The word of God is the right mirror. It will show you just who you are. For example, I looked into the mirror of Colossians 3:12 KJV which reads : Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; I ask myself if I can see my reflection in the mirror of that verse. Am I humble, are my bowels of mercy open, do I show kindness, meekness, longsuffering? I thank God for the mirror of His word because it keeps me checked!

The Goodness of God!!!

I was listening to a person sometime ago, and I have to admit that, as they spoke of how they were so blessed because of the way they served God, including paying all their tithes and their other good deeds, I wished that I, too, did everything right. As I wistfully listened, I wanted so much to be "good", but the reality was that I didn't give all of my money to the church and I don't think very highly of the wicked and people who do bad things to children and the elderly. Sometimes I can think of a few things to say to people who are downright disrespectful, mean and rude. Yes, I can think of many ways that I fall short and yet, I know that I have been called by God! Then, God brought to my remembrance that His blessings and His relationship with me do not depend on how good I am or try to project to be, but rather, on His goodness, mercy and grace! Like a roaring train, the truth that none are saved by their good deeds reverberated within, but rather, by faith in and acceptance of a God who is GOOD! Haleujah!!!!Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

"Thy Will Be Done!"

Every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God is powerful and four of those powerful words come straight from the prayer that He taught us to pray in the book of Mathew in the Bible. They are "Thy Will Be Done!" It is the Lord's will that we need in our lives! We cannot trust our own understanding of situations becuase we can not see the end from the beginning like God can. He already knows how we need to proceed, and the outcome. He knows what is really going on behind the scenes and He only wants the best for us. We may not always understand what is going on in our lives, but with certainty, God knows. Humbly, we must get out of our own way, believe that God is operating only for our good and totally let go of trying to figure out the answer, and submit to doing things God's way by saying "Not mine, but Thy Will Be Done!" Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.Proverbs 3:4-7

A Reason to Hope!

When the Lord is truly sanctified in your heart, you can humbly give every man an answer for the hope that you still express even in the middle of trouble, adversity, etc. You can totally persevere in the face of the boisterous winds of opposition, financial stress, relationship and work related problems or whatever! You can testify that God is still good and good only. Circumstances may change, but God never does, so when you give people an answer of hope, you are not looking at the circumstances, your hope is in the miraculous, omnipotent and omnipresent power of God! But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: 1 Peter 3:15 KJV

The Difference

There is a difference between being saved and being religious. The religious person will not care what comes out of his or her mouth. He or she doesn't mind saying whatever they want to say about anyone or anything without forethought or the execution of wisdom. The Bible tells us thst Jesus didn't come to condemn the world, but rather, He came to save it, but sometimes the religious people who think they have been given the responsibility to judge everything and everybody, really get in the way. The way to differentiate between the religious people and the true worshippers and believers in God is by the tongue: what comes or doesn't come out of their mouths!James 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.

Comforted!

Often, when we face trials and tribulations, we may want to wonder why. We may face one trial after another when we are doing the best we know how to serve God, but it is in facing trials and troubles ourselves that we really learn or know how to comfort others!Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 KJV

God's Image

There comes a point when you will have to stand "flat footed" with your feet firmly planted in God and who He has said that you are. Certainly, in this life you will meet up with a fake mirror reflection of who you are. The devil will try to convince you. He will try to show you a refection that projects you as weak, powerless and the exact opposite of who you really are in Christ! He will show you a reflection as if in a mirror, but your true image or reflection comes from God because you are made in God's image, not the devil's! Not only are you made in the image of God, you have dominion!Genesis 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

Beware!

Sometimes people will respond to you not according to who you really are in Christ, but rather, to what they have heard about you. This is truly sad because they will miss responding to the real 'you": the one that God has anointed and appointed! People will sometimes unwittingly (and sometimes willingly) receive the slanderous report, outright lies and character assassinations about you instead of seeing you as you truly are: a born again, steadfast believer in God! What also amazes me, is that the people who unquestionably believe the lies and the malicious gossip are some of the ones who preach and teach the word of God! One thing I do know is that you can tell more about the one who slanders than the one being slandered! We all have to be mindful of believing the negative report of the devil because he hates God, the truth and us! Beware! Proverbs 6:19 A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. Proverbs 6:18-20

It's Personal!

God will sometimes give you a personal word, just for you! It will be precise, sharp and clear. It will be so "on point" that you know that it is expressly designed to meet your needs, situation or circumstance. You may be in the middle of a famine, a drought or a problem in your life, but there is a personal word from God that can solve every problem and cancel out the designs or plans of the enemy. I am a witness! Sometimes, even in the midst of the destructive intentions of the enemy, God will speak peace, give you a solution or reassurance,etc. You are never alone when you keep your faith in God and He will give you a personal word for your personal situation! I am reminded of the prophet Elijah, when "the word of the Lord came unto him". He received instruction concerning where he was to go in order to be fed. He didn't hesitate. He received the word and subsequently, his provision. God can give you the exact instruction, inspiration,message or answer that you need. Just keep believing in Him, and yes, it's personal! 1 Kings 17:1-3 King James Version (KJV)17 And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab, As the Lord God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word.2 And the word of the Lord came unto him, saying,3 Get thee hence, and turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan

Purposed!

Knowing that there is a purpose and a plan for your life helps to keep one focused. When you know your purpose, you can continue following it in spite of anything else that is happening in your life. If your purpose is to mentor young people, then , no matter what, keep mentoring. If your purpose is to feed the hungry, keep feeding. Do not look to the right, nor the left, just keep moving forward, knowing that it isn't by your own strength or power, but it is by the spirit of the living God! Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:5-7

Speak!

Sometimes, in life, we want to talk about the problems instead of speaking the word of God. I am reminded to think about God's word for my life and speak of His purpose, promise and plans. God commanded the children of Isreal to speak His words.And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. Deuteronomy 6: 6-7 KJV

The Majesty of it All!

I was talking to one of my closest friends early this morning. We discussed some of the things in our lives that God has brought us through. As we talked, I thought about some of the things that life had brought my way. Then, I thought about the majesty of it all; how no matter what, God was always there. I thought about how majestic He is and how when the rain comes down in torrents, He is your umbrella and when you are bombarded with first one thing and then another, He is your hiding place. As we continued to talk, I personally remembered how His majesty, His goodness and mercy and peace have permeated my life even in tragedy and heartbreak! As my close friend began to read verses from a birthday card that her son (who has now departed this life at a young age) had given her, tears rolled down my cheeks, and my heart overflowed with joy because even though my friend had lost her son and we both are facing trials, we were still witnessing the majesty of God. He was allowing us to find comfort in a card from the past, and yet, it was timely this morning!My soul is still rejoicing as I sit, thinking about the goodness of God and the majesty of it all!But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. Job 23:10-11 KJV Exodus 33:19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy. Exodus 33:18-20

Can't Be Stopped!

One thing that I am absolutely sure of is that no matter what the devil tries to do to a true servant of God, he can not win. His plans have already been deflated. You see, the devil underestimates God's children. He thinks that he is fighting them, but his fight is actually with God and this is a battle that he just can't win!2 Chronicles 20:15 And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's.

Looking to the Hills (excerpt from sermon- August, 2003)

There is a lot to be said for looking up. After having put everything behind you, you must look up. This is important because when you look up, you can not see your circumstances around you. Looking up changes your focus from looking at your problems and transcends you to another realm where the solutions are. The solution to everything , every problem, every trouble that besets you is where God is. I will look to the hills from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord. The benefits from looking up lie in all the verses in Psalm 121. The first verse gives you direction. When in doubt about your situation, follow the instructions of Psalm 121. Say " Listen, devil! I know you want me to think about the situation and all the mistakes of the past, but I don't live there any more. I live where God lives. I am going in a new direction, now. I will not listen to you. I will look up to God!

"Sonlight" and Shadows

In reference to Psalm 23:4 "Yea though I walk through the valley and the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." God reminded me that a shadow has no substance and the only reason for its existence is that there has to be light present! Thank you, Lord, for the "Sonlight"!

"Killers of the Dream"

Killers of the Dream (annotated version) By Dr. Emily Grant DeCarlo (copyright 2013) At the risk of seeming critical, Got something to say that’s real and empirical! Something that I’ve witnessed That threatens to overshadow a miracle: The phenomenon of a hero Who walked among us/ Lived and died to set us free. A bulwark of a man who dared Challenge strange fruit hanging from a tree. All just so incredulous to me: How this man like Moses led his people Yet these descendants, Partakers of the vision and the dream So blind they cannot see Crystal blue waters of freedom No longer flowing pure and clean, Contaminated by minds too Delirious to see They are killers of the dream, A threat to democracy! If one mind is imprisoned Hence, the domino effect: Nobody can be free. We are all connected In this nightmare If somebody doesn’t wake up, We’ll all be drowned by the turbulence In a dark and angry sea, Where brothers and sisters are calling each other “niggers” Instead of forgiveness, rage is flowing Like blood infested rivers In spite of reason, Drug riddled thinking is pulling triggers Mothers stooped over lifeless bodies, Crying “Mercy Me!” No longer keepers of the light Sucked down into the Hazy cesspool of the night/ Denying the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King. Sentenced to self- inflicted insanity Guilty of being killers of the dream!

"Keep it Moving!"

I want to reach those who have been crushed or hindered by anything that the devil has "put out there" or said about you. So often we worry about what someone is saying about us rather than what God has already said about us, our purpose and the plans that He has for us. One major strategy of the devil is to try to weaken your focus and distract you from watching and following God and depending on Him. He is an "accuser of the brethren". His design is to stop you or slow your momentum. When God has put "fire in your belly", don't let the evil tongue of the enemy douse the flames. Keep it moving! Revelation 12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

Because he fell!

Because satan fell from heaven, I can rise. Because God kicked him out of the kingdom, I can live in it. Because God sent him to hell, I can live in heaven!

Think About It!

I woke up this morning thinking how amazing life is. I woke up thinking about "the word of the Lord" and His righteousness. I was thinking I am able to get up, to get ready for the day. My mind is on the goodness of God. I'm set on automatic thoughts to have not just a good day, but a "God" day. No matter what anyone says or does, I am going to automatically have a bountiful, beautiful day. My mind is set for it and I'm ready! Think about it! For the word of the Lord is right; and all his works are done in truth. He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. Psalm 33:4-5 KJV

"The Crab Effect"

Excerpt from my book: "The Crab Effect" The subtitile of this book is "How to Handle the Haters in Your Life". One thing that is incredibly evident when one sets out to follow the path and purpose that God has ordained for his or her life is that with certainty, there will be haters trailing behind at almost every turn to defame,discredit,and assassinate the very plans of God for your life. In my grandmother's time, this used to be referred to as the "Crab Effect". The reference was to the effect that steam has on crabs in a pot. When the water begins to boil, the crabs, in an effort to escape, will begin to pull each other back, but my grandmother was not talking about crabs, of course. She was implying that people will try to snatch you back from moving ahead in life. In the story of Joseph, in the Bible, Joseph witnesses this same phenomena in his own experience with his brothers. Because of jealousy of the gift that God had given him, Joseph's brothers began to plot to kill him. Today, your enemies or your haters, may not pursue plans to take your life, but there is an attempt that is just as diabolical. It is the plot to kill a person's name or reputation and character. There is an answer to this dilema, however. Joseph's story illustrates the methods and strategies that can propel one from "the pit to the palace". What Joseph discovered, and so will you, is that God's hand on your head and life is far greater than the venomous poison of the vibrating tongue and evil devices of the enemy or haters in your life! The way you handle your haters is essential to whether you will succeed or fail in your pursuit of your God given destiny. One major strategy that will be examined in chapter one is the principle of "letting go" This principle is based on not stuggling but simply knowing that God has a plan for your deliverance, and that your future is in His hands. "Letting go" also involves realizing that God does not listen to anything the devil says about you!!! Jesus is the high priest over your confessions. He makes intercession to the Father for you. You can relax because God is not paying any attention to the lies, innuendoes or slander that the devil may be spreading about you. He only accepts the interceding from His son, Jesus Christ!

"Through the Eyes of God" (From the Book of Miracles")

"Through the Eyes of God" copyright by Dr. Emily DeCarlo (From "The Book of Miracles") emilydecarlo.blogspot.com When seeing in the mirror, I really cannot see for only looking through the eyes of God can I truly see me. For in the mirror darkly now, I cannot see the light only shadows of the day and reminisces of the night. For the mirror is too shaded to clearly see the splendor of His glory and the possibilites that wait for me. For the mirror does not nearly show the riches of the kingdom nor the depth of the soul. For only through the eyes of God can man undoubtedly know the power and the glory and the true measure of his soul! 1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

"The Apple of God's Eye"

Oh, to be kept as the apple of God's eye! In Psalm 17:8 of the Holy Bible(KJV), David is asking God to keep him as the apple of His eye. What a place to be kept! What a profound request! David knew what to ask. He knew how to pray to God. He knew whom his protector, his keeper and his salvation was. It is a good thing to be seen as precious in the eyes of the Lord. May we all be kept as the apple of God's eye! Psalm 17:8- "Keep me as the apple of the eye; hide me under the shadow of thy wings."

"The Anointing" (Blog 1-Introduction)

The anointing of God is essential to our lives as Christians. It is the power of the Holy Spirit to enrich our lives to the maximum by destroying burdens, and yokes of enemies. The anointing will get the foot of the enemy off your neck and empower you to do great and mighty works as ordained by God. When you work and walk in the anointing, you cannot fail. You will excel. There is not a principality in hell or on earth that can stop the power of the anointing. Just know that it will give you the power to heal, and the power to overcome anything that the devil thinks he can do. With the anointing of God, you cannot fail because there is no failure in Him. You have His power when you are anointed!

"A Clean Heart"

Sometimes we operate in the wrong spirit and call it "discernment". We have to be careful of judging people and situations out of our own jealousies, insecurities and prejudices and mistakenly calling it "discernment". It is difficult to see objectively when your vision is not clear because your focus is not on Jesus, but on your negative experiences, pain and undealt with baggage. Because of this,If we are not careful, we can miss connecting with the people, situations and opportunities that have the potential to bless us! With reference to Psalms 51:10,unless we have a right spirit and a clean heart, we can not have proper discernment or see things in the spirit because we are looking with carnal vision, unclean hearts, and a wrong spirit. Let us, like David in Psalm 51:10, ask God to renew our spirit and give us a clean heart! Psalm 51:10 King James Version (KJV) Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

The DeCarlo Files: "Stir it Up"!

The DeCarlo Files: "Stir it Up"!: Saturday, February 2, 2013
"Stir it Up"!
Some of us have been prayed for,hands have been layed on us, and we have been prophesied to over and over. Now, we need to take it a step further.We have to acknowledge and pay attention to our spiritual gifts. They need to be stirred up. With reference to Paul in 1 Timothy, who told young Timothy to stir up or neglect not the gift that was given him by the laying on of hands, we have gifts that need to be inspired, cultivated and even escalated by wiser,more experienced mentors. Sometimes, we don't realize what potential diamonds or golden nuggets lie within until, like Timothy, we are admonished to stir them up. Often, we are not aware of the vast acerage of riches that lies inside the caverns of our spirits until someone with a shovel of wisdom digs deep into perhaps unmined and unexplored territory.So I say to those who have been sitting not understanding the treasure that has been given, not to neglect it, but rather, "Stir it Up!. 1 Timothy 4:14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.(KJV)
Posted by Dr. Emily Grant DeCarlo at 3:27 AM

"Do" Season

We often hear people talk about their "due" season. Specifically, your due season is based on actions. A farmer reaps a harvest based on what he actually plants and not what he thinks about planting. In reference to the Holy Bible, we find many examples of people who reaped rewards or came into their season by virtue of their actions. One was David. David didn't just talk about the giant, he took five smooth stones and by the power of God, he killed this "uncircumcised Philistine". In the book of Esther, we also find that Esther did not let her ethnicity deter her from saving her people. She did not just talk about the king, she went and talked to him, thereby gaining his favor, and subsequently saving her people. When you take action, coupled with faith in God, you have just decided your season. The formula is action + faith = season. Your time is "now". Its your "do" season!

Create This!

Just as "In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth" according to Genesis1:1 in the King James Version of the Bible, we too, have creative power. We can speak to situations and circumstances and by virtue of our faith in God, we can witness a turnaround due to the creative power of words. Ephesians 4:29 states "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers." Not only do your words create good things in your own life, but they also affect those around you.It is incredible to see how situations in your life and in the lives of others, line up with what comes out of your mouth. Instead of creating chaos, you can create peace. Instead of hate, you can create love. Instead of hopelessness and despair, you can create joy. As we speak blessings over ourselves, our loved ones and the world, we will see miracles unfold:the blind will see; the lame will walk; the poor will prosper. The creative power of words is further substantiated by brain research. The more something is repeated, the more new neural pathways are created in the brain. (Isn't God awesome?!)Its similar to the fact that even a tiny stream of water will crack concrete if it drips on it long enough.The more you speak into your own life and into the lives of others the more certain the manifestation of what you speak. If you want success, healing, abundance, prosperity,etc., in your life, by virtue of your affirmations or what you say, you can create this! Proverbs18:21a- "Life and death are in the power of the tongue."The power is in your mouth!Use it wisely!

The DeCarlo Files: Togetherness

The DeCarlo Files: Togetherness

Togetherness

There is something very spiritual about people coming together as one unit. The bible gives many examples of togetherness. One example is Moses and Aaron. Although Moses could not speak because of a speech impediment, his brother, Aaron, spoke for him. Because of this union, the plan for Moses' life was fulfilled, for he was predestined to lead the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. Yet, he could not carry out the plan without the accompanying of his brother. This is a prime example of how togetherness can propel one to destiny, but so often, our egos prompt us to go it alone. We don't want to involve anyone, or we think that we can do everything all by ourselves, but so often this just isn't true. Sometimes our shortcomings will not allow us to accomplish the goals that we hope to reach. Sometimes we need help to do what we desire.Although one may have a great purpose, this purpose may not be fulfilled without aligning oneself with another who can supply the missing ingredient. Maybe, one's mission is to save the whales, or help the homeless, or some other monumental and valiant task. Alone , one may fall short of the fruition of this dream, but joining forces with another who has resources that can be added to the fulfillment of the seemingly impossible may prove to be the golden answer.

A New Day!

Today is a new day filled with new possibilities, new hope and new adventures. This day is different than any other day. It is here now and will never pass again. It is a day to cherish, to laugh in, to share with others. This day is full of whatever you want it to be. If you think joyfully on this day, you will have joy. If you think lovingly on this day, you will have love. If you think peacefully on this day, you will have peace. What a marvelous gift this day is. It is like a package all tied up with a beautiful bow. Just like a birthday present, one must receive it with expectancy that whatever is inside will be good. Referring to Psalms 118:24," This is the day which the Lord hath made;we will rejoice and be glad in it!

Canvas of Life

11:43 AM What I truly love about life is that it is like a canvas. It is up to you what colors you use to paint on it. You can use big splashes of color, shades of blue, dashes of red to show your boldness and vision, drops of pink to show your softness, scarlet hearts to show your love or whatever colors you choose. It's all up to you. Nobody can tell you how to hold your brush or how much to paint. God gave each of us a paint brush but its your choice as to what you will paint. Will you paint a masterpiece or a mess? The brush is in your hands!!