Saturday, February 13, 2010 Print Article
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Love Me Better Than I Love Myself
Bishop Vashti McKenzie
"But as for me, I trust in you." Psalm 55:23
David is entangled in the affairs of his administration. He is caught in the crosshairs of opinions and critics in Psalm 55. He is in the midst of a series of crises and his confidence has him caught in between flight and fight. One day he wants to run away from the problem, but the next day he wants to fight what's going on. He declares that if he had wings like a dove, he would fly away and be at rest.
The brother is having a rough time. David lifts his voice in prayer because his enemies oppress him. The palace is in an uproar. There is trouble in the land. David was also hopping mad because he discovered a friend among his enemies. A former trusted friend blurred the lines of relationship, clothed himself in sheep's clothing, and went undercover disguised as a friend. When the cover was blown, David was served with a burn notice.
Nothing hurts more than when a friend stabs you in the back - someone you trusted, shared secrets with, disclosed things you'd never tell anyone, as well as shared and kept confidences. This friend now stands on the other side of the friendship fence among those who mean you no good.
David was ready to fight. He's angry about the betrayal, and believes the betrayers deserve the death penalty. "Let death seize upon them and them go down quick into hell" (Psalm 55:15). Now you know what was really saying to them, "Y'all go to__________."
Is it just the evil in them? Were they evil or just being used by evil? In the end, it is not the fight, the betrayal; it is not the crises of confidence, wanting to run away; it is his final confession of faith and confidence that speaks to us about God's resolution of the matter.
God answers David's prayer by responding to David's enemies with judgment. When they refused to change, it meant that what they were doing was more important to them than the Lord. This refusal was rejection of God's way of life and rejecting God's plan for life.
The refusal of the divine call to a new creation is aborting the pregnancy that was designed to birth in you, a new power, peace and progress. It is saying "No" to what can help you, and "Yes" to can keep you in a rut.
The key to change is found in the last verse of this Psalm for David as well as you and me "but as for me, I trust in you." (Psalm 55:23) Trust the Lord who loves you too much to leave you the way you are. As good, great, marvelous, exciting, smart, cute, stupendous, brilliant and bright you are - all of us can stand to do better. I do better. You do better. All God's children do better.
God could have left David on a hillside keeping his daddy's sheep, but he had something better. God could have left him as a singer of psalms and a composer of hymns, but God had something better. God could have contented David with being a musician and expert on animal husbandry, but God had something better.
God loved David so much that God wanted to develop David's full potential. In order to do that, he had to put David into positions where he was challenged to many choices and decisions. Sometimes he chose right and sometimes he chose wrong, but it was in the choosing that he grew beyond his present capacity. The Lord took him from the pastures and elevated him to the palace; took him from last place to the victory podium; from being the runt or baby of the family to the king of all Israel; from humble beginnings to a noble ending.
He trusted a God who loved him and could see in him what he hadn't seen in himself, a God who loved him too much to let him settle for less.
So must we: James and John knew how to fish for fish, but they had to change something to be successful at becoming fishers of men; Zaccheus had to change his cheating ways to be a successful community servant; Mark had to change his tax collecting ways; the woman at the well changed her sleeping arrangements; and Saul had to transition into Paul.
Trust God who loves you too much to leave you the way you are!
As presiding bishop of the 13th Episcopal District of the AME, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie is a guiding example for women and church leaders throughout the country. Her messages can be heard online daily at www.thisisyourwakeupcallonline.com. For more information about Bishop Vashti McKenzie, log onto www.13thame.com
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
When Desire Become Expectations
When Desires Become Expectations
Milan Ford
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I thought I'd dedicate today's devotional to all of my fellow MARRIED believers out there. And for those of you who are still SINGLE, be sure to tuck this one away in a vault; you may need to read it again one day.
When I first got married, I like so many of you reading this today, had a box full of desires that I came to the wedding altar with.
Desires to one day purchase a new home.
Desires for when and how many children I wanted to have.
Desires as to how I would like to schedule quality time with my wife.
Desires for how I would like to save and spend our money.
And yes, I even had a desire as to what I ALWAYS wanted to see my wife wear to bed! I was convinced that Victoria Secret was going to be a staple in our marriage forever.
But after six years of marriage (our seventh anniversary is coming up this October), I found out something very interesting about many of the desires I had prior to getting married. All of them have one common denominator:
The letter "I"
Every desire that I had grown up thinking would be a core value of my marriage was rooted primarily in what "I" wanted and desired to see happen. And at first, nothing seemed to be wrong with that kind of value system.
Our wedding ceremony was incredible.
Our honeymoon was unforgettable.
Our first home purchase was essentially a snap.
And the birth of our first child was indeed nothing short of magnificent.
But over time, something significant happened. In fact, it happens to relationships all across this nation every single day. Perhaps it is happening to you right now.
The values I had coming in to my marriage, many of which I thought were great values to have, slowly became something they never should have.
They became EXPECTATIONS.
Somewhere along the way, the desires I had about what my marriage was going to be like became an expectation, and whenever a desire is confused with or transformed into an expectation, the dynamic of one's marriage will drastically change.
For example: When a husband no longer 'desires' for his wife to assist with the cleaning of the house, but rather 'expects' her to do so, he (over time) may no longer become a husband to her. But rather her master.
Or (as another example) when a man no longer 'desires' for his wife to wear romantic lingerie to bed, but rather 'expects' her to, he (over time) may no longer see her as his wife. But rather as his 'releaser.'
(I'd use a different word there, but I think you get the point)
The following passage of scripture is one I had read several times before, but after reading it again this week, the words written here struck me like a ton of bricks.
"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with washing of water by the word, and that He may present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish." - Ephesians 5:25-27
For six years, my wife has met, and more often than not, exceeding all of my desires and expectations as it relates what a good and loving wife should do. And yet, despite all of her attempts to make me happy, I realized that I tend to be entirely more focused on what she is doing, but not BECOMING.
I forgot that she also (prior to marrying me) had some desires as well. There were some lifelong dreams that she had that were not being fulfilled because her duties were confined to meeting someone else's expectations.
She was not being 'presented' as a glorious church BY her husband.
But rather busy 'building' a church and sanctuary for HER husband.
Friends, that is not why Christ came.
And that is not what His love is all about.
So before you head out to that department store to purchase some new perfume for your spouse or significant other, and just before you reserve that table for two at your favorite restaurant this weekend for Valentine's Day...
...be sure you carve time out to truly INSPECT what you EXPECT.
There perhaps may be no greater sign of God's love than to free those in our lives we have held captive to fulfilling our desires. Let's break this cycle once and for all.
Milan Ford has been a leader (and survivor) of ministry within the local church for most of his life. A lover of Red Vines Licorice and all things pointing North, Milan released his first book, 83 Things I Wish The Black Church Would Stop Doing in December (2009). You can find Milan rambling and writing at at ThePewView.com.
Milan Ford
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I thought I'd dedicate today's devotional to all of my fellow MARRIED believers out there. And for those of you who are still SINGLE, be sure to tuck this one away in a vault; you may need to read it again one day.
When I first got married, I like so many of you reading this today, had a box full of desires that I came to the wedding altar with.
Desires to one day purchase a new home.
Desires for when and how many children I wanted to have.
Desires as to how I would like to schedule quality time with my wife.
Desires for how I would like to save and spend our money.
And yes, I even had a desire as to what I ALWAYS wanted to see my wife wear to bed! I was convinced that Victoria Secret was going to be a staple in our marriage forever.
But after six years of marriage (our seventh anniversary is coming up this October), I found out something very interesting about many of the desires I had prior to getting married. All of them have one common denominator:
The letter "I"
Every desire that I had grown up thinking would be a core value of my marriage was rooted primarily in what "I" wanted and desired to see happen. And at first, nothing seemed to be wrong with that kind of value system.
Our wedding ceremony was incredible.
Our honeymoon was unforgettable.
Our first home purchase was essentially a snap.
And the birth of our first child was indeed nothing short of magnificent.
But over time, something significant happened. In fact, it happens to relationships all across this nation every single day. Perhaps it is happening to you right now.
The values I had coming in to my marriage, many of which I thought were great values to have, slowly became something they never should have.
They became EXPECTATIONS.
Somewhere along the way, the desires I had about what my marriage was going to be like became an expectation, and whenever a desire is confused with or transformed into an expectation, the dynamic of one's marriage will drastically change.
For example: When a husband no longer 'desires' for his wife to assist with the cleaning of the house, but rather 'expects' her to do so, he (over time) may no longer become a husband to her. But rather her master.
Or (as another example) when a man no longer 'desires' for his wife to wear romantic lingerie to bed, but rather 'expects' her to, he (over time) may no longer see her as his wife. But rather as his 'releaser.'
(I'd use a different word there, but I think you get the point)
The following passage of scripture is one I had read several times before, but after reading it again this week, the words written here struck me like a ton of bricks.
"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with washing of water by the word, and that He may present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish." - Ephesians 5:25-27
For six years, my wife has met, and more often than not, exceeding all of my desires and expectations as it relates what a good and loving wife should do. And yet, despite all of her attempts to make me happy, I realized that I tend to be entirely more focused on what she is doing, but not BECOMING.
I forgot that she also (prior to marrying me) had some desires as well. There were some lifelong dreams that she had that were not being fulfilled because her duties were confined to meeting someone else's expectations.
She was not being 'presented' as a glorious church BY her husband.
But rather busy 'building' a church and sanctuary for HER husband.
Friends, that is not why Christ came.
And that is not what His love is all about.
So before you head out to that department store to purchase some new perfume for your spouse or significant other, and just before you reserve that table for two at your favorite restaurant this weekend for Valentine's Day...
...be sure you carve time out to truly INSPECT what you EXPECT.
There perhaps may be no greater sign of God's love than to free those in our lives we have held captive to fulfilling our desires. Let's break this cycle once and for all.
Milan Ford has been a leader (and survivor) of ministry within the local church for most of his life. A lover of Red Vines Licorice and all things pointing North, Milan released his first book, 83 Things I Wish The Black Church Would Stop Doing in December (2009). You can find Milan rambling and writing at at ThePewView.com.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
God's Love and Lemonheads
God's Love and Lemonheads
Aqualyn Toi Jones
I'm in search of the ultimate synonym.
I'm trying to think of every possible way to describe God's love without using the word 'love.' Let's face it - that expression is misused possibly more than any other word in our language. It really doesn't matter what language you speak.
The word just doesn't hold the weight that it should.
Recently, I came across a writing prompt that instructed you to jot down a list of everything that you love. It was supposed to help me discover what I'm passionate about and in turn, possible topics for a good story.
Well, two 8 ½-by-11 pages later, I quit. I wasn't finished; I just stopped. As soon as I wrote one thing down, another popped into my head.
That simple activity showed me a few things.
One, I love a lot of people and things. Two, I mistakenly use the word 'love' to describe things that I like a lot. Or things that I like "right now." Certain items will never be erased from that list: family, books, lemonheads, etc. Other items should've never been included at all (I won't embarrass myself with those examples).
Thirdly, I realized that I have no idea of what God's love really is. It's truly incomprehensible. I know and believe that He sent Jesus because of that love. Yet, my finite mind doesn't totally get it.
The word 'Love' is likely abused more in relationships than in any other context. On our best day, our love still has a touch of "conditional" in it. We say it to our parents, children, spouses, and friends. Then we contradict it with our actions, which limits our perception.
At some point in time, we all struggle to understand why and how God loves us so much. We start to think that His love is like ours. I use the word 'love' to describe my favorite clothing store, TV shows, and candy.
How can I understand His love if I'm comparing it to those things? How can I accept His love if I think it comes with a side order of strings attached to it?
You and I will never fully know the depth of the Father's love for us.
But I do believe we can understand it better.
When we experience new mercies every morning, we know He loves us. When He spares your life in a near-fatal accident, you will appreciate His love. As He continuously forgives you, supplies your needs, and heals your heart, you will better grasp how much He loves you.
I'm the one that needs a synonym to describe my affection for the things on my list. There's no word that can adequately describe God's love. My list of things is limited. His listing, well...it has no end.
Toi Jones is a writer and an advocate for youth, underdogs, and all things (and people) that are broken and overlooked. Compassionate at her core, Toi is also an educator, a mentor, and a supporter of multiple initiatives for South Africa. For more information about Toi, log onto www.bewrite-livewrite.typepad.com.
Aqualyn Toi Jones
I'm in search of the ultimate synonym.
I'm trying to think of every possible way to describe God's love without using the word 'love.' Let's face it - that expression is misused possibly more than any other word in our language. It really doesn't matter what language you speak.
The word just doesn't hold the weight that it should.
Recently, I came across a writing prompt that instructed you to jot down a list of everything that you love. It was supposed to help me discover what I'm passionate about and in turn, possible topics for a good story.
Well, two 8 ½-by-11 pages later, I quit. I wasn't finished; I just stopped. As soon as I wrote one thing down, another popped into my head.
That simple activity showed me a few things.
One, I love a lot of people and things. Two, I mistakenly use the word 'love' to describe things that I like a lot. Or things that I like "right now." Certain items will never be erased from that list: family, books, lemonheads, etc. Other items should've never been included at all (I won't embarrass myself with those examples).
Thirdly, I realized that I have no idea of what God's love really is. It's truly incomprehensible. I know and believe that He sent Jesus because of that love. Yet, my finite mind doesn't totally get it.
The word 'Love' is likely abused more in relationships than in any other context. On our best day, our love still has a touch of "conditional" in it. We say it to our parents, children, spouses, and friends. Then we contradict it with our actions, which limits our perception.
At some point in time, we all struggle to understand why and how God loves us so much. We start to think that His love is like ours. I use the word 'love' to describe my favorite clothing store, TV shows, and candy.
How can I understand His love if I'm comparing it to those things? How can I accept His love if I think it comes with a side order of strings attached to it?
You and I will never fully know the depth of the Father's love for us.
But I do believe we can understand it better.
When we experience new mercies every morning, we know He loves us. When He spares your life in a near-fatal accident, you will appreciate His love. As He continuously forgives you, supplies your needs, and heals your heart, you will better grasp how much He loves you.
I'm the one that needs a synonym to describe my affection for the things on my list. There's no word that can adequately describe God's love. My list of things is limited. His listing, well...it has no end.
Toi Jones is a writer and an advocate for youth, underdogs, and all things (and people) that are broken and overlooked. Compassionate at her core, Toi is also an educator, a mentor, and a supporter of multiple initiatives for South Africa. For more information about Toi, log onto www.bewrite-livewrite.typepad.com.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
He Loved Who?
Wednesday, February 10, 2010 Print Article
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He Loved Who?
Pastor Marquis Boone
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Discover the most precious loving act ever done. God sent His Son to die for you! I know some would say "for who"? Have you ever had a conversation with someone you haven't seen in a long time and the two of you begin to talk and you tell them "you know such and such fell in love with such and such and they got married". The first thing most of the time when the person is in shock is "with who"!!!
The word love is such a loosely used word today that many have really elapsed the accurate meaning of such a powerful four letter word. Some declare it's what you do and others utter its how you act. Whatever you think love is you will never find a love like God's love. God so loved the world that he choose us to give his only begotten Son to. To be chosen is to be one who is the object of choice or of divine favor, an elect person, selected, and preferred for a certain and divine purpose.
An object is something that when viewed stirs a particular emotion, something toward which thought, feeling, or action is directed; it's a cause for attention or concern. When God looks at us it stirs His emotion of Love and compassion. That's why he forgives us and He directs His blessing down upon us.
Why? Because we are the cause for His attention and concern. God's Love is not like man's love; we didn't have to do anything to earn it. He doesn't take it away from us when we mess up. He's not waiting on us to love Him before He loves us, and His love is unconditional. If you didn't know it already it might shock you but "For God so loved (say your name) that he gave his only begotten Son."
The Father desires to share His love with His people in good times, in bad times, during hard times, within a recession or not. Max Lucado once said: "If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If he had a wallet, your photo would be in it. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning. Whenever you want to talk, he'll listen."
That's just how much love God has for you.
No matter what state this devotion finds you in weather happy or sad dwell on God's love it's everywhere. Look at the flowers outside they represents His love, the moon at night and the sun during the day represents His love. The next breath you take represents God's love. Don't walk around saying he couldn't love me after what I did last night but remember He loves you.
Leave a Comment
He Loved Who?
Pastor Marquis Boone
John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Discover the most precious loving act ever done. God sent His Son to die for you! I know some would say "for who"? Have you ever had a conversation with someone you haven't seen in a long time and the two of you begin to talk and you tell them "you know such and such fell in love with such and such and they got married". The first thing most of the time when the person is in shock is "with who"!!!
The word love is such a loosely used word today that many have really elapsed the accurate meaning of such a powerful four letter word. Some declare it's what you do and others utter its how you act. Whatever you think love is you will never find a love like God's love. God so loved the world that he choose us to give his only begotten Son to. To be chosen is to be one who is the object of choice or of divine favor, an elect person, selected, and preferred for a certain and divine purpose.
An object is something that when viewed stirs a particular emotion, something toward which thought, feeling, or action is directed; it's a cause for attention or concern. When God looks at us it stirs His emotion of Love and compassion. That's why he forgives us and He directs His blessing down upon us.
Why? Because we are the cause for His attention and concern. God's Love is not like man's love; we didn't have to do anything to earn it. He doesn't take it away from us when we mess up. He's not waiting on us to love Him before He loves us, and His love is unconditional. If you didn't know it already it might shock you but "For God so loved (say your name) that he gave his only begotten Son."
The Father desires to share His love with His people in good times, in bad times, during hard times, within a recession or not. Max Lucado once said: "If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If he had a wallet, your photo would be in it. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning. Whenever you want to talk, he'll listen."
That's just how much love God has for you.
No matter what state this devotion finds you in weather happy or sad dwell on God's love it's everywhere. Look at the flowers outside they represents His love, the moon at night and the sun during the day represents His love. The next breath you take represents God's love. Don't walk around saying he couldn't love me after what I did last night but remember He loves you.
Monday, February 8, 2010
The Annointed Introduction: The Lounge
Join us for Anointed Introduction: The Lounge this Friday, February 12th from 8pm-12:30am. Simply put, it’s a free inter-generational (21 and over) singles mixer and a good time. We take over three levels of the church and set it up for mixing, mingling, dancing, the Nintendo Wii, "mocktails," good people and good times!
Check out the Anointed Introduction: The Lounge commercial:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWgNaM1XD2s
Invite some friends and come out and enjoy yourself!
See you there!
Thanks all,
Xavier
Check out the Anointed Introduction: The Lounge commercial:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWgNaM1XD2s
Invite some friends and come out and enjoy yourself!
See you there!
Thanks all,
Xavier
Love: According To The World and The Word
Monday, February 08, 2010 Print Article
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Love: According To The World and The Word
Ben Komanapalli Jr.
In the world that we live in today, the word "LOVE" is used with different connotations.
People say:
I love my car.
I love my job (you might not hear that too many times).
I love my house.
I love my wife/husband.
I love my cat/dog.
The word "love" is one of the most widely used, misused or abused word in our daily conversations. It is also used very casually.
The Bible has several scriptures and situations where the WORD love is used to portray how Jesus loved us, sinners! What do you mean when you use the word 'Love'? What does the word 'Love' mean in the Bible?
In most cases when we use the word 'love', we are describing a feeling or emotion we have towards something. The "love" for material things is in actuality an attachment to them. Material things are blessings from God for us to enjoy. (I Timothy 6:17). God gives us things to enjoy them not to love them. We are called to love God and people (Mark 12:30-31).
The "love" that Jesus expects of us is spiritual and transcends our daily activities, likes and dislikes. I Corinthians 13:4-8 provides a comprehensive view of "LOVE". Love is patient with imperfections; active in doing good; it is non-possessive, non-competitive; it promotes the well-being and success of others; it displays no arrogance; it is selfless; it is courteous; it is not irritable; it is graceful under pressure; it does not keep account of evil; it forgives; it finds no satisfaction in the shortcomings of others and spreading an evil report; it constantly promotes, supports and cherishes the good. All these are constant and experience no fluctuations.
Can we be really like this? Yes, this question pops up in my mind from time to time especially when things do not work out in tune with my expectations. Then, as one of my mentors used to advise me, I humble myself and seek the wisdom of the Holy Spirit in prayer before I react to the situation. According to Romans 5:5 we have the 'the love of God' poured out in our hearts. We have the Grace to do what God has called us to do. It is not an easy thing but it is doable. He, who has called us to love has also given us the ability to do so. Once we practice it will become a habit indeed.
As Jesus was being punished and nailed to the cross, He says to His Father, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." Luke 23:34. This is not something that just happened with Jesus. In the books of Acts, we see another example of this kind of love being extended and shown by Stephen. As the martyr Stephen was being stoned to death because of his faith, his dying prayer was, "Lord, do not charge them with this sin." (Acts 7:60). You will notice the spirit of forgiveness in both instances. WE need to cultivate the spirit of forgiveness if we say we love our neighbor.
Never give room to doubt if it is possible. The Bible shows us that it is possible. When you think you cannot Love, seek the WORD because the WORLD is looking at you!
"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love" 1 John 4:7-8
Ben Komanapalli Jr. was born and raised in Hyderabad, India where he worked in ministry most of his life. Residing in the United States since July 2002 with a passion to teach God's word and see the lives of people change, Ben is currently attending graduate school pursuing a Masters degree in Organizational Leadership from Regent University while serving as the Director of High School Ministry at Calvary Revival Church in Norfolk, VA, where Bishop B. Courtney McBath is. You can find Ben blogging at benkomanapalli.blogspot.com.
© Ben Komanapalli Jr. all rights reserved.
Leave a Comment
Love: According To The World and The Word
Ben Komanapalli Jr.
In the world that we live in today, the word "LOVE" is used with different connotations.
People say:
I love my car.
I love my job (you might not hear that too many times).
I love my house.
I love my wife/husband.
I love my cat/dog.
The word "love" is one of the most widely used, misused or abused word in our daily conversations. It is also used very casually.
The Bible has several scriptures and situations where the WORD love is used to portray how Jesus loved us, sinners! What do you mean when you use the word 'Love'? What does the word 'Love' mean in the Bible?
In most cases when we use the word 'love', we are describing a feeling or emotion we have towards something. The "love" for material things is in actuality an attachment to them. Material things are blessings from God for us to enjoy. (I Timothy 6:17). God gives us things to enjoy them not to love them. We are called to love God and people (Mark 12:30-31).
The "love" that Jesus expects of us is spiritual and transcends our daily activities, likes and dislikes. I Corinthians 13:4-8 provides a comprehensive view of "LOVE". Love is patient with imperfections; active in doing good; it is non-possessive, non-competitive; it promotes the well-being and success of others; it displays no arrogance; it is selfless; it is courteous; it is not irritable; it is graceful under pressure; it does not keep account of evil; it forgives; it finds no satisfaction in the shortcomings of others and spreading an evil report; it constantly promotes, supports and cherishes the good. All these are constant and experience no fluctuations.
Can we be really like this? Yes, this question pops up in my mind from time to time especially when things do not work out in tune with my expectations. Then, as one of my mentors used to advise me, I humble myself and seek the wisdom of the Holy Spirit in prayer before I react to the situation. According to Romans 5:5 we have the 'the love of God' poured out in our hearts. We have the Grace to do what God has called us to do. It is not an easy thing but it is doable. He, who has called us to love has also given us the ability to do so. Once we practice it will become a habit indeed.
As Jesus was being punished and nailed to the cross, He says to His Father, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." Luke 23:34. This is not something that just happened with Jesus. In the books of Acts, we see another example of this kind of love being extended and shown by Stephen. As the martyr Stephen was being stoned to death because of his faith, his dying prayer was, "Lord, do not charge them with this sin." (Acts 7:60). You will notice the spirit of forgiveness in both instances. WE need to cultivate the spirit of forgiveness if we say we love our neighbor.
Never give room to doubt if it is possible. The Bible shows us that it is possible. When you think you cannot Love, seek the WORD because the WORLD is looking at you!
"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love" 1 John 4:7-8
Ben Komanapalli Jr. was born and raised in Hyderabad, India where he worked in ministry most of his life. Residing in the United States since July 2002 with a passion to teach God's word and see the lives of people change, Ben is currently attending graduate school pursuing a Masters degree in Organizational Leadership from Regent University while serving as the Director of High School Ministry at Calvary Revival Church in Norfolk, VA, where Bishop B. Courtney McBath is. You can find Ben blogging at benkomanapalli.blogspot.com.
© Ben Komanapalli Jr. all rights reserved.
Construction Training Program
Spread the word! Great opportunity
CONSTRUCTION TRAINING PROGRAM
(For New York City Residents Only)
New York Urban League: Employment Services is participating in a construction training program. Pre-Apprenticeship Training is a full time program that runs from Monday through Friday 7:30AM to 3:30PM for 17 weeks. Commitment to the full 17 weeks is required.. If you meet the all the requirements you can complete an application at the address below. Classes begin in February 2010 - Call to start the application process.
Must be 18 to 24 years old by the end of the 17 weeks.
Advantages:
-Intensive 17-week training in construction and environmental remediation
-Potential to earn 13 combined licenses and certificates. Hands-on experience
-Career guidance
-Job placement assistant
-Completely tuition-free training
-Lunch and transportation provided daily plus $100 clothing voucher
-Set of starter tools provided upon completion of training
-HRA approved training provider
Program Requirements:
-Open to residents of the five boroughs
-18 Years old
-Have at least a high school diploma or GED with transcript
-Be physically able to do work
-Be able to provide NYS I/d., Birth Certificate, Social Security Card and Proof of Address -Have reading and math skills at 8th grade level
-Be able to pass drug test and attend a program orientation
-Be committed to completing the entire program full time.
Required Documents:
-Completed Application
-High School Diploma or GED with transcript
-State Identification Card (Must have 9 digit identification number)
-Birth Certificate
-Social Security Card
-Proof of Address
For additional information please contact;
Betsy Robles
Employment Counselor
New York Urban League
1530 East 222nd Street Bronx, NY 10469
Office: (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 x227
Email: brobles@nyul.org
Website:www.nyul.org
www.brooklynnaacp.org
CONSTRUCTION TRAINING PROGRAM
(For New York City Residents Only)
New York Urban League: Employment Services is participating in a construction training program. Pre-Apprenticeship Training is a full time program that runs from Monday through Friday 7:30AM to 3:30PM for 17 weeks. Commitment to the full 17 weeks is required.. If you meet the all the requirements you can complete an application at the address below. Classes begin in February 2010 - Call to start the application process.
Must be 18 to 24 years old by the end of the 17 weeks.
Advantages:
-Intensive 17-week training in construction and environmental remediation
-Potential to earn 13 combined licenses and certificates. Hands-on experience
-Career guidance
-Job placement assistant
-Completely tuition-free training
-Lunch and transportation provided daily plus $100 clothing voucher
-Set of starter tools provided upon completion of training
-HRA approved training provider
Program Requirements:
-Open to residents of the five boroughs
-18 Years old
-Have at least a high school diploma or GED with transcript
-Be physically able to do work
-Be able to provide NYS I/d., Birth Certificate, Social Security Card and Proof of Address -Have reading and math skills at 8th grade level
-Be able to pass drug test and attend a program orientation
-Be committed to completing the entire program full time.
Required Documents:
-Completed Application
-High School Diploma or GED with transcript
-State Identification Card (Must have 9 digit identification number)
-Birth Certificate
-Social Security Card
-Proof of Address
For additional information please contact;
Betsy Robles
Employment Counselor
New York Urban League
1530 East 222nd Street Bronx, NY 10469
Office: (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 (718) 944-3734 x227
Email: brobles@nyul.org
Website:www.nyul.org
www.brooklynnaacp.org
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Jesus Loves You
Jesus Loves You
Rhonda Dent
God loving us first was the beginning of our relationship with him. We must develop a love for God in order to complete the relationship. No matter how much He loved us there could not be a relationship until we loved him in return. Relationships are not one sided. It is not just God loving us but us loving God that completes and defines that relationship.
To have a healthy relationship and to reap the benefits of that relationship there must be a mutual love for one another. If our relationship with God is not what it should be then we have to look within ourselves to cultivate and deepen that relationship. There are many one sided relationships with God and one sided relationships in the world. In our relationship with God it is not Him that is lacking in the relationship. It is us.
I have always had a love for God. Even as a teenager I knew that there was a God and I knew that He loved me. I knew that from a simple song that goes like this....
Jesus loves me, this I know, for the bible tells me so....what a wonderful song. I am sure most children heard the song while growing up. It is a simple song but a powerful song.
The song is so powerful that it is known all over the world. Back then I had no idea how much God loved me or how much He sacrificed for me. All I knew was that He loved me because the song said that he did. Even as baby Christians that is all we need to know, at first. But, as we get older and mature in the things of God we have to grow in the understanding that we must reciprocate that love.
If we never develop a love for God we can never understand what He did for us and how much He loves us. We will never understand love in any of our earthly relationships either. We will never understand unconditional love. Not understanding can prevent us from totally submitting to God and His ways. It will interfere with the desire to build a strong relationship with God and to walk in obedience. It will keep us from finding our purpose and from living a life sold out for God.
God's love is not conditional and He will never stop loving us no matter what. God does not have human characteristics. His love endures forever. When we grasp the concept of unconditional love we are able to establish a right relationship with God and with our families, friends and neighbors. We then will realize what God did for us. I can think of no better scripture than this:
For God so loved the world He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
Until we understand the dynamics of such a love we will never quite understand why it is so important for us to have a love for God and not just a love for God, but the same type of sacrificial love that He had, has and will always have for us. Sacrificial love for God will lead us to lay down that bad habit and/or that relationship that we know is not right. It will lead us to sacrifice our time, our money and give up that ungodly behavior and much more.
When we really get to know God, we will develop such a deep love for Him that we will want to please Him.
Rhonda Herring Dent was born and raised in Goldsboro, N.C. She is a Christian Author and her first book, Ever Changing was published in June 09. A member of Harvest Life Changers Church in Woodbridge, VA, Dent now serves as an inspirational speaker that is bringing her message of healing, hope and reconciliation to hurting souls. For more information about Rhonda Dent, log onto www.e-rhonda.net.
Rhonda Dent
God loving us first was the beginning of our relationship with him. We must develop a love for God in order to complete the relationship. No matter how much He loved us there could not be a relationship until we loved him in return. Relationships are not one sided. It is not just God loving us but us loving God that completes and defines that relationship.
To have a healthy relationship and to reap the benefits of that relationship there must be a mutual love for one another. If our relationship with God is not what it should be then we have to look within ourselves to cultivate and deepen that relationship. There are many one sided relationships with God and one sided relationships in the world. In our relationship with God it is not Him that is lacking in the relationship. It is us.
I have always had a love for God. Even as a teenager I knew that there was a God and I knew that He loved me. I knew that from a simple song that goes like this....
Jesus loves me, this I know, for the bible tells me so....what a wonderful song. I am sure most children heard the song while growing up. It is a simple song but a powerful song.
The song is so powerful that it is known all over the world. Back then I had no idea how much God loved me or how much He sacrificed for me. All I knew was that He loved me because the song said that he did. Even as baby Christians that is all we need to know, at first. But, as we get older and mature in the things of God we have to grow in the understanding that we must reciprocate that love.
If we never develop a love for God we can never understand what He did for us and how much He loves us. We will never understand love in any of our earthly relationships either. We will never understand unconditional love. Not understanding can prevent us from totally submitting to God and His ways. It will interfere with the desire to build a strong relationship with God and to walk in obedience. It will keep us from finding our purpose and from living a life sold out for God.
God's love is not conditional and He will never stop loving us no matter what. God does not have human characteristics. His love endures forever. When we grasp the concept of unconditional love we are able to establish a right relationship with God and with our families, friends and neighbors. We then will realize what God did for us. I can think of no better scripture than this:
For God so loved the world He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
Until we understand the dynamics of such a love we will never quite understand why it is so important for us to have a love for God and not just a love for God, but the same type of sacrificial love that He had, has and will always have for us. Sacrificial love for God will lead us to lay down that bad habit and/or that relationship that we know is not right. It will lead us to sacrifice our time, our money and give up that ungodly behavior and much more.
When we really get to know God, we will develop such a deep love for Him that we will want to please Him.
Rhonda Herring Dent was born and raised in Goldsboro, N.C. She is a Christian Author and her first book, Ever Changing was published in June 09. A member of Harvest Life Changers Church in Woodbridge, VA, Dent now serves as an inspirational speaker that is bringing her message of healing, hope and reconciliation to hurting souls. For more information about Rhonda Dent, log onto www.e-rhonda.net.
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