Covered in Mud

Although I am a proud country girl, I'm not too fond of mud. I can't stand for my hands to be gritty and I just don't like to feel... dirty. However I can proudly say that I've played in dirt. Like many of you, I have made my share of mud pies. May have been many years ago, but I'm almost certain that you have.  I recall being much younger and me and my cousins making them in my grandma's yard anytime it rained. I remember how filthy we would get. Yeah, pretty nasty. And as if mud is not a mess by itself, could you imagine it being made with something other than water? Dirt and saliva, perhaps? EW! I also recall playing with saliva or if we'll be real about it and call it in it's most disgusting terminology, spit. Don't front sis, you've made spit bubbles when you were younger. As I've gotten older, those two things are two of the most repulsive things ever. Of course a little mud isn't that big of a deal because it can be washed off.. but saliva is disrespectful! Especially if it's someone else's! Fewer things turn my stomach more than to see a man spit all the time, but that is probably another post all together. Speaking of mud pies and our youth, let's play make believe sis. 

Let's pretend you were born with a large cut on your neck. The doctors have no explanation as to why it is there and aside from it your life has been normal. It doesn't really hurt and you've learned to live with it. You wear high collared shirts so that it is not very noticeable. You take particular care when bathing as to not irritate it. Altogether it has become a part of who you are and it doesn't bother you. Well... except for the instances that someone stares at you as though you are a freak of nature or ask you questions dripping in ignorance as if they'd never witnessed a deformity. Aside from that, you're quite healthy and happy because you've learned to accept the cut and the reality that there is nothing to do to heal it. But alas! A doctor has just opened a practice nearby and word has it he has cured a similar cut in another country. He put a clear ointment on the cut, told the patient she would be fine, and before she walked out of the office her life long cut was gone!!! Oh... you've got to see this doctor. Right, sis?! 

So you make an appointment and he has an opening. You tell the receptionist exactly what your appointment is regarding and she says the doctor can see you the next day. She calls you back later that evening and tells you the doctor will be seeing patients at another location that day and gives you the address. No big deal though because surely the doctor will be able to heal your wound. You get to the doctor's office and he assess your cut. He says, "Hmmm... no problem at all." He reaches into his pocket, pulls out a vial of sand, pours the sand in his hand, spits in his hand, rubs it together to form a mud ball and proceeds to put the mud on your neck!! WHOA DOC!!! But... in your desperation you allow him to go forth. As he is rubbing this muddy concoction on your neck, getting it all over the collar of your new shirt, you recall that this regime is nothing like the prescription that healed the other lady. Interesting. Oh, well. The doctor finishes applying the mud and tells you that the water in the office is off for maintenance, you'll have to use the rest room next door to wash the mud blob off BUT afterwards your cut would be gone forever. 

What do you do... do you allow the doctor to put this stinky, spit and mud concoction on your neck? You know he has healed someone else but it didn't take all of this. This is unconventional, disgusting, not tested or explainable. Even if you decide to let him, are you willing to expose yourself to even more attention by walking next door to wash this mess off? Or do you say this is just too much, forget it! This is crazy. Honestly sis.. what do you do? 

Although this situation is unlikely to occur today with all of the advancements in medicine, Jesus actually used mud....made with His saliva... to heal a man that had been blind from birth. The story of the blind man can be found in John 9:1-34. Here is an excerpt from that passage (NIV):

1-7: As He went along, He saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes.  “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.

10-11 “How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. He replied, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.”

This miracle was one of seven highlighted in the book of John and exhibits a reoccurring theme throughout the bible; Jesus giving sight and providing light to the blind (spiritually and physically). John is the only gospel that tells of this particular act. In many other instances, Jesus simply touched the person receiving grace or spoke a blessing. This story goes on to explain how the man's parents were brought before Jewish leaders and asked if in fact, he had been born blind and was healed. (There was debate among those in the area as to whether the act had really occurred and the Jewish leaders were looking for a charge against Jesus.)

The man's parents confirmed he was born blind and he was their son however they were afraid to testify regarding his healing. The man himself was not. He told the Jewish leaders exactly how he had been healed. He even wittingly questioned the Pharisees regarding their probe of disbelief. Through this miracle, the man grew to believe and worship God (v. 38). If we read the entire passage, we will notice that the man went from calling Jesus "the man they call Jesus" (v. 11), to the prophet (v. 17), to sir (v. 36), to Lord. You see.. he grew in his faith by obeying, receiving, witnessing, testifying, and then seeking understanding to gain a personal encounter or relationship with Jesus. We can learn a lot from this man, his dirt and his disability. 

1.) The mess (mud) that you are going through may not be a result of anything that you did wrong.  The Pharisees assumed it was either the blind man's fault or the sins of his parents that brought about his blindness. Jesus tells them that he is not blind due to sin, but so that God may get glory through his healing. 

2.) The man's blindness brought about an opportunity for God to do a mighty work in his life. Your mess may be an opportunity for God to show you and those around you just what He is capable of doing. 

3.) What God has commanded to heal you may be different than what works for others or how he has healed others. Matthew 9:27-31 shows that God heals two blind men by simply touching their eyes. Quite a bit different from the mud you are going through to bring about your healing. Your situation may appear as similar to others on the surface, but in your heart there may be a difference that only God knows. 

4.) The dirt/mess was a significant ingredient in the man's healing. The mud was important. Your mud is too, sis! Your mess or the thing that you are going through may bring you vision. It may show you a side of the world that you were not aware of. It may open your eyes to the things that are going on around you or lead you to your calling. The mess often exposes us to a side of life that we would take for granted if everything was always peachy. 

5.) How much are you willing to participate in your own healing? Jesus told the man to go wash His face in the pool of Siloam in order to be healed. He had to be obedient. Not only that, he had to participate in his healing by finding his way. It would have been simple for God to send him to wash his eyes after he regained his sight. But sometimes when we receive blessing prematurely we become busy celebrating and forget to follow through on our end of the bargain. Are you willing to participate in your own betterment or do you expect God to just say the word? 

6.) The man was completely blind and had not been able to see since birth. The situation you are in could be going on like for what seems forever and there is absolutely no way out. You may have grown to accept that its just the way it is and you've adapted and learned to live in this mud/mess. Remember, those are the situations that God specializes in; those things that seem hopeless. He is capable of doing exceedingly and abundantly. (Ephesians 3:20)

7.) Will you testify after you are healed? When something radical happens to you or you step out on faith to participate in your healing by being obedient will you be ashamed to tell people just how far you had to go? Will you sugar coat it or would you stand in a room full of non-believers and confidently say "God did it with mud!"?  Will you be ashamed of your mess and hide it from the world? The blind man was not afraid to testify to the Jewish leaders. He cared nothing about their theological views, he only knew what he could testify to and that was that he had been healed. You don't have to be a biblical scholar to tell others what God has done for you. 

8.) Though the world may deem you as dirty, they aren't aware of the healing that is taking place. They may avoid you to keep from getting your mud on them not knowing God is in your mess. I'm sure those that saw the man with mud on his eyes didn't initially think "Whoa, an awesome thing is happening in his life." I'm sure they thought, "Ugh... you are a mess!" That is probably how people are looking at you. Not knowing that God has allowed mud into your life only to open your eyes, show you light, give you vision, make you clean, and heal you. They don't know that God has touched you and is guiding you as you follow His directions. 

9.) The man was a beggar but scripture does not tell us that he had begged for healing. Much like us, he didn't even know what he needed. He didn't even know what to ask for because either he thought that requesting sight was too great of a task or maybe he'd become comfortable in his disability. Disability sometimes gives us a crutch. It gives an excuse. We claim to want to be healed, to want a new job, to want a better situation... but that would only require us to step out of our comfort zone so we don't pursue it wholeheartedly. Just in theory. 

10.) Although Jesus did not just say the word to incite the man's healing, the healing still came from His mouth in the form of saliva. Often times, we do not receive healing or God's promises because it doesn't come in the form we expect. We may expect revelation through scripture, when the Holy Spirit actually speaks to us through prayer. We may expect for the preacher to lay hands on us or anoint us with oil, when all we have to do is believe or wash ourselves clean. When the word doesn't come in the manner we sought it, we sometimes ignore it. 

People may know all that you have been through. People may know of some of the things that you have done. They know of the lifestyle that you once lived, some of the mistakes you've made. But what they don't know is how God will use your dirt as a testimony to save others. God said in His word that He will use what was meant for bad for your good. (Genesis 50:20) And though they may remember all of your faults and flaws, God says that he will remember them no more.  In fact, God knew that you would hold on to your past and punish yourself so he sought to remind you that He would not. He knew you would need reminding of this constantly so He references Him forgetting your transgressions over 25 times in the bible. (Isaiah 43:25, Hebrews 10:17, Hebrews 8:12, Romans 5:20...etc.) 

God specializes in using mud to construct greatness. In the KJV, this mud concoction is considered clay. Throughout scripture, God uses clay and the molding of dirt as symbolism. Clay or dirt is weak, it is malleable. But with God it becomes strong and usable. It is not a coincidence that Adam was created from dirt. God is the potter (Jeremiah 18:4-6). He shapes and molds the most magnificent things in nature with earthly elements and his divine power. That is what He is doing with the dirt that is in your life, sis! 

What part of you needs to be covered in mud? What dirt is in your life that you need to surrender to God? What is it in your life that needs a touch from God? What if that touch doesn't come in the manner that you expect? What if your financial breakthrough isn't an inheritance or a check in the mail? What if instead you are given a job that you don't like so you have to earn the funds you were praying for? Or what if the husband that you sought God for is a little rough around the edges and things aren't picture perfect? What if the car you prayed for isn't a 2013 but is a 1997 that you have to fix up? Seek to discover the Magnificence in your mud.

The chorus to one of my favorite songs by Mary Mary reminds us that we "need a lil dirt to grow." That mud might be anointed sis... don't be ashamed to get dirty.

Love you so much Masterpieces, 
-Kimyatta

Daily Prayer: Thank you God for my situations. Help me to see you and bring you glory in all things. Give me the strength to remain godly and forgive me for my sins. I trust that You are able to do all things according to Your riches in glory. 

Scripture to Study: Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.” John 9:39

The voice spoke to him a second time, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean." Acts 10:15

TAKE IT BACK!

       

         I've been robbed twice. My home was invaded in 2007, I was forced in the bathroom while all of my things were taken and in May 2010, my car was stolen from the gas pump as I was headed to church. I'm so grateful to God that He kept me and remained the joy of my strength. I truly believe that as David expressed in Psalms, in the days of trouble, God kept me safe in His dwelling; he hid me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. (Psalms 27:5) However as I look back at both of these instances, revelation of a few other things pop up.

     Both of these events occurred during the day. Things that were rightfully mine were taken from me in broad daylight. The worse attacks of the enemy are the ones that are committed for everyone to see. It is embarrassing and makes you feel vulnerable. It also leads to a greater fear because we tend to believe that we are safe in the light. Maybe your home wasn't invaded by man or your car hasn't been taken from you but has the enemy ever robbed you of things that were rightfully yours for everyone to see....while you are trying to get your life right with God? Maybe your relationship fell apart and everybody knew about it. Maybe you lost your job and clearly people knew. Maybe you are in a financial bind and unable to do the things you once could. To make matters worse, these events may have occurred as you were walking in the light and on the righteous path. In the day time.

      Attacks of the enemy don't stop when we get saved and decide to follow Jesus. They become more vicious. "A thief doesn't rob an empty house." Satan wouldn't bother you if there wasn't something special inside of you! But you see... the Lord your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory. (Deuteronomy 20:4) The enemy's job is to distract you from God, to do everything he can to get you to follow him instead. If Satan has your things, he is hoping you will follow him to get them back. Illegally perhaps, maliciously, or not at all but continuing to follow him hoping you'll get something all the while on a pursuit for material things that lead you further from your Father. So this lil tactic of taking things is sometimes a ploy of Satan to try and convince you that God doesn't protect the blessings God gives. Satan wants you to believe that God isn't looking out for you or protecting you. THAT IS A LIE, SIS! We've all quoted Romans 8:31 in saying if God is for us, who can be against us? But do you really believe that? Do you really believe that God is your protector?

    Keep this in mind, sis. Satan had to ask for God's permission before he waged his all out attack on Job. Let that sink in.... God knows what He is doing and in every situation where something was taken from you, it could have been worse. Sometimes God has to allow things to be taken from us to give us something better. You would have never sought better if what you had wasn't taken. You wouldn't have ever applied for a better job if that one had not let you go. God also allows the lost of things to ensure that we are not focusing too much on the thing and not enough on the giver of the things... HIM! Sometimes God has to take things to remind us that as easily as they came, they can go. In doing so, He ensures that our joy is not found in material possessions and we are able to practice contentment. 

    In addition we must always trust that whatever Satan takes from us... we have the authority in Jesus name to take it back!!! Don't sit around being pitiful, waiting for God to go get your things, God has given you the key to where they are stored and full armor to march right up to Satan and get back all that is yours. When my house was invaded, all of my electronics and my purse were taken. My purse had all of my identification and a large amount of cash inside. I was in a completely different state, all alone (or so I thought), and far from family. But God was with me and everything that the enemy stole God empowered me to get it back and more. When my car was stolen, on my way to church, again my purse was taken with all of my identification in it. Apparently Satan must have thought both times that by stealing my identification, I would forget who I was. Uh...no. I am a daughter of the King! I know who I am and whose I am. My car was eventually found and returned as well....3 months later. I had to track down my car using the GPS on my phone, that was still inside the car to assist the police in locating the area it was being kept. But the important thing is that God empowered me to get my car back and more. Had I just sat around, without using the resources God had given me, the tenacity to stay on law enforcement, or the strength to go out riding around to find my car, it may have never been found.

    Sometimes we sit around, looking pitiful, acting like a victim, just "having faith" and waiting for God to do something. But faith without works is dead! Stop acting weak, get up and go take your things back, sis!  Don't let a public breakup kill your self esteem, improve upon yourself and learn to love yourself unconditionally for who God says you are. Don't let a financial crisis kill your motivation. Keep tithing, applying, readjust, and make the best of what you have. Don't let a bankruptcy, foreclosure, or car repossession still your joy! That is what the enemy can't take from you. YOUR JOY! Put on the full armor of God because your battle with the enemy may appear physical for all to see, when it is actually taking place in the spiritual realm. (Ephesians 6:10-18). Look, God is waiting for you to step up and operate in the confidence that you are the child of a King and you will not be defeated. It might take time, you might have to dust yourself off several times a day. But what God has allowed, He has given you all that you need to overcome. You are backed by the Most High, God's got your back!  

With Love,
Kimyatta 

Daily Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for leaving me here although I have lost some people and some things. As long as I have you, I have all that I need. I know that vengeance is Yours, and I know that in my weakness Your strength is made perfect. Lord, I thank you in advance for multiplying everything the devil ever took from me. 

Scripture to Study: So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me". Hebrews 13:6

American Idol

Are you really worshiping God....or......a god?????


The difference is far more than the size of the letter g. The difference in the two bring about one of the most common acts of sin in society... IDOLATRY! Idolatry is the act of worshiping anything other than the one true God; our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is defined as extreme admiration, love, focus  or reverence for something or someone. WHAT?! We ain't worshiping nothing but God! Right, sis??!! Yeah...well, I hate to burst your bubble but it is happening way more frequently than we are aware or care to admit. Idols are anything that take away or distract us from our devotion to God. Idolatry occurs when we place the dependence of our peace on anything other than God. 

Granted in biblical times, most people worshiped gods or goddesses made of wood, stone, or different metals. One of the most studied forms of idolatry in the bible was the golden calf Aaron made for the Israelites. Despite what the idol was made of, it was still a lifeless object with no character or power. In today's society, an idol can be anything that we place ahead of God in our lives. Anything that tugs at our heart more than God does. Anything that divides our attention to God. Some common idols are possessions, careers, relationships, goals, and addictions. Ironically, many of the things that are idolized are not bad in and of themselves, such as relationships or careers. But the motives behind obtaining them or their priority in our lives can get risky. Scripture tells us that whatever we do, we are to “do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31), and that we are to serve God only (Deuteronomy 6:13). Unfortunately, God is often nowhere to be found as we zealously pursue our idols. Worse yet, the significant amount of time we often spend in these idolatrous pursuits, leaves us with little or no time to spend with the Lord. In seeking to satisfy the desire for the idol, the glory of God is not being considered. The motive is the satisfaction of man. 

 The Word of God is so very vocal about the danger of idols. Several scriptures warn us about placing anything above God. The first 5 of the Ten Commandments deal with idolatry in some form. Exodus 20:3-6 warns “You shall have no other gods before me.You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me,but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments."

The danger in the act of idolatry is that one is usually unaware that it is taking place. They have become so use to it that they don't even realize that they are worshiping the things God has given them, rather than worshiping God. Our obsessive behavior over objects are often masked as drive, determination, or motivation when in fact we have began to desire what is in God's hand, not God. This is idolatry. When we start to put things before God we are sinning against God. Not quite following me? Ask yourself these questions and be honest: 

• Is there anything/anyone you feel you can’t live without?
• Is there anything that takes priority over you spending time with God? (Ever told yourself "I'll pray later" or "I'll go to church next Sunday"?)
• Do you have a dream you would sacrifice everything to realize?
• Is there anything that you think about more in a day than God? 
• Does God truly take first place in your life? Over your job, your children, your money? 

My personal opinion is that the three greatest objects of idolatry are:

1. Preachers (or Spiritual Leaders i.e. Evangelist, Ministers, etc.)
2. Relationships, marriage, or companionship
3. Money

One of the most common forms of idolatry takes place in the church. Ohhhh, the irony. Without even realizing what is occurring so many church members began to see their pastor ....as their god. Now this happens frequently and quite easily. You see, the pastor is bringing forth God's eternal, true, hope-filled word. But the pastor is physically visible. He is tangible. You can touch him, you can see him, you can hug him, he can respond. He is right there right now in the natural. All of those are the very things that we sometimes silently struggle with in our belief or faith in God and long for in our relationship with Him. So the pastor becomes their god, instead of them recognizing him as only a vessel of God. How often do people fall in love with the messenger and not the Message (the Word of God)? So often we won't go to church if "Pastah" isn't there or if "Pastah" isn't preaching. The word and opinion of "Pastah" takes precedent over the word of God in many cases. Some of what "Pastah" says is personal opinion not validated by the word of God but actually holds more weight than what the Bible says. A personal relationship with God is not pursued, while recognition from and loyalty to "Pastah" is heavily sought after. If "Pastah" says to do something, oh, somebody makes sure it gets done! But when God gives directives, confirmation is needed before obedience. But "Pastah" is only a man, honey! He might be a man of God... but he is still just a man! The word comes from God.....not "Pastah"! Please don't get me wrong... the loyalty, love, respect, and reverence to pastors is necessary and appropriate. That's bible! (1 Thess 5:12-13, 1 Corin 9:14, Hebrews 13:17) They are (typically) anointed (wo)men of God, called to bring forth His word and God gives us discrete instruction on the level of respect they are afforded. But the church has a tendency to place them on a throne fit only for the King. This beloved, is idolatry. 

When Moses returned from Mt. Sinai speaking to God, he wore a veil on his face. (Exodus 34:34-35) Some theologians say he did this because God's glory shined so bright. But other theologians make a point that I believe is more accurate. Moses wore a veil because he did not want people to see him, He wanted them to focus on the word God. He covered himself so that he would not be a distraction to the word that God gave him to give. He wanted them to hear God, not see Moses. He was protecting the Israelites against making him an idol by ensuring God received the glory. My, my, my....  

The desire for marriage, companionship and relationships is also a very common form of idolatry. Let's be honest about these things, sis. I'll go first. I remember saying that I couldn't live without someone in particular. May have been a boyfriend, may have been my momma. But I've definitely said it. Maybe you didn't use those exact words. Maybe yours came out more like "I don't know what I would do without you." Mind you, we say that sometimes jokingly but think about it. I've also said that I didn't want to live the rest of my life single. I've been so driven before by the desire for a husband that it consumed my thoughts and influenced my actions. I mean, I have dated people that I thought about 24/7. Well, sis, that didn't leave much more time to think about Jesus. If you don't feel like you can live without something that God has given you or hasn't given you yet, then you are more focused on the creation than the Creator. Many people develop this type of infatuation over a child or a spouse. They come to love the gift from God, more than the God that gave the gift. Single Christian women who desire marriage are at risk of putting their desire for a husband over their desire for Jesus. It is easy to think about having a husband and allow it to drive your actions, thoughts, and motives. When we find our thoughts more occupied with this desire than that of pursuing the purpose that God has for our lives, then we have made the desire for a husband an idol. 

You and I would both openly say that money can't buy the most important things in life. We may not openly admit it but we can probably agree that money is the cause of much of life's stress. The desire for more, the need to have a certain amount to afford life's necessities and pleasures,the struggle to have it. The absence of money...being broke.... can cause enough strife and stress that we lose our faith in God. It can also cause us to compromise on the standard of holiness. We tend to forget that God is our provider and worry over the things that we are having a hard time affording. The lack of money robs so many of their peace and constant thoughts of it are certainly a distraction from God. The pursuit of money becomes more important that pursuing a relationship with God or trusting God as a provider. The security of having financial stability often drives people to hunger for more money and all the things it can buy. More money....more problems. The American obsession with money often supersedes our drive for a life that is pleasing to God in efforts to gain peace and salvation. Instead, the want is for the satisfying feeling that comes from the things money can buy, the opinion others have of those with money, and a lifestyle that is focused very little on glorifying God. Money is definitely an idol of many. Our generation is full of sad quotes that prove this point.

When any object or objective is sought more than the will of God or without regard for God's commandments, then idolatry is occurring. If there is anything that you think of more in a day than God, then idolatry is likely occurring. Remember the only way to repent is to recognize that we are sinning and admit to God so there is no need in hiding. Have you made god's of things and put more trust in them than the faith you have in God? If you lost your job would you trust God in guiding you and making a way or do you feel as though you couldn't make it if you lost your job? What if your spouse left you?   Is it your car that gets you to work safely or is it God? Do you believe God will make a way out of no way or do you feel like you can't make it if so and so doesn't help you out? What, my dear, are you worshiping? 

With love, 
-Kimyatta

Daily Prayer: God, please reveal those things in my heart that take the place of You. Forgive me for placing anything before You. Lord, I worship You because You are God, and God alone. Please send the Holy Spirit to teach me Your ways and correct me in the error of my own. 

Scripture to Study: Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Colossians 3:5

For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created trough him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. Colossians 1:16-17 

Golden

The tabernacle... a tent, place of dwelling, or sanctuary. The Bible tells us that it was a sacred place where God chose to meet His people, the Israelites, while they aimlessly wandered around the desert for 40 years. The tabernacle would contain the Ark of the Covenant (the commandments) and it would be where the people would come together to worship God, offer sacrifices, and dwell in the Lord's presence. God gave Moses specific instructions on every aspect of the construction of the tabernacle. Sis, I'm talking about exactly how long the cloth would be used for curtains, what to use to dye them, what color they should be, and so on!! The directions were particular to EVERY ELEMENT of the tabernacle. God was so thorough in this revelation to Moses, that He even gifted certain men to build the tabernacle and told him where to get the resources from. (And we tend to doubt the details in His plan for our life??...but anyway.....)

A reoccurring element in the construction of the tabernacle was hammered gold. Gold was beaten into thin plates to be used as a covering for other elements of the tabernacle. It was fashioned into thin sheets and threaded into the garments worn by the high priest. The highly studied Lampstand which was the only source of light for the inner court of the tabernacle was made of gold. The two cherubim (the little angelic baby looking sculptures) that were to be placed on the altar were made of gold. A sacred bowl used for things such as the drink offering was also made of gold. But you see... in all of these directions sis, God was specific to point out that the gold was "hammered gold". Beaten gold. Wonder why? Maybe the hammering of gold made it easier to work with. Gold that is beaten can be shaped and formed into practically anything.

The gold used on God's altar, in order to be good enough... had to be beaten, molded, hammered, heated. The gold that has been commonly used as an adornment since the beginning of time is typically beaten, molded, hammered, heated. One of the characteristics of gold is that it is malleable. This means that it is capable of being hammered or pressed permanently out of shape without breaking or cracking. It will bend, but not break. Its capable of changing forms and becoming something new. Gold maintains value because it is resistant to oxidative corrosion. It doesn't rust when exposed to the elements. When subjected to water and wind, it maintains strength and shine. It is also considered ductile or able to be deformed without losing toughness. The melting point of gold is very low, making it easily used but also requiring it to be reinforced if brought anywhere near heat. But gold is one thing that consistently maintains value. It's mined, sold, melted, reshaped, and reformed... and continues to be used. You see... those things that are golden are beautiful, decorative, versatile, and valuable. 

And you, my dear... are golden.

Surely you've wondered why it seems like the better you think you are doing, the harder times get. Or the closer you get to God, the more things start falling apart. Or maybe you've just wondered why you are going through hell? Its getting hot, ain't it? Well..... like the gold that God instructed to be used in the temple, we have to be hammered or beaten into a form that can be used. The beating process of gold makes it flexible. The more we go through, the more flexible we are because we know how things can change at any minute and in order to survive we must adapt. Succumbing to the struggles of life conditions us for the battles we may face in life. In order for God to use us, we have to be capable of being heated, beaten, molded, shaped, thinned out or worn thin. In order to present ourselves on the altar before God, we may have to take a beating.  But you see sis, gold is soooo strong and pure that it takes the beating and remains resilient. It doesn't lose worth and it is still very valuable. No matter what you put gold through, it still shines. 

I want God to make me into exactly what He needs in order for Him to use me. If this entails taking a beating, then I understand that like those things used in the tabernacle, I too can be used for the Kingdom! Don't give up. You may be beaten but you are not broken. A single bar of gold, after being beaten can be stretched over 50 yards without breaking. Gold that has been heated and processed is also more appealing to spectators. All that you have been through, will make your witness to others more relevant. Your testimony will be more appealing because the tests you have faced will equip you to relate to others. Consumers are more likely to purchase gold that has been shaped. Those things that we face that seem difficult are preparing us to be used by God. Recall that the melting point of gold is very low so it must be reinforced if brought anywhere near heat. Sis, during our struggles, when things start heating up, trust that God is near. He is reinforcing you. He said in His word that He would never leave nor forsake us. (Deuteronomy 31:6) 

Take pride in all that you have been through because if you went THROUGH it, that means that you came out. If you are facing difficult situations or things are heating up, don't lose faith in God because chances are He is closer now than ever. Job 23:10 says "But He knows, the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold."  Like a goldsmith, when things start to heat up, He is near so that He can mold you into whatever the situation is making you. Despite what you are going through or have been through, understand that God will and can use it for your good. SHINE, SIS! You're being molded for His purpose. 

With love, 
-Kimyatta

Daily Prayer: Lord, help me to stay strong in my time of struggles. I know that all things happen for the good of those that love You. Please make me new and make me into whatever I need to be so that you can use me. 

 Scripture to study: And I will put this third into the fire, and refine them as one refines silver, and test them as gold is tested. They will call upon my name, and I will answer them. I will say, ‘They are my people’; and they will say, ‘The Lord is my God.’” Zechariah 13:9

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Live Your Praise

I use to think that God was not pleased with me unless I was in the act of praying, studying the bible, witnessing, or at church. You know... doing "sanctified" stuff. Surely He wasn't sitting in heaven smiling at me while I'm out to eat with friends, telling lame jokes and laughing, enjoying my favorite foods, watching a movie, or getting the best sleep I've ever had in my life. I mean... those aren't "Christian" activities. But truth is, the most consistent way that we can give God praise is through enjoying life and the things that He has given us. It is not the enjoyment of life that puts us in danger of placing things before God, it is when the things that bring joy are more important than God. 

Think about it this way, the best way for someone to show you their appreciation for a gift you've given them, is when they use it and like it. Imagine spending hours searching for the perfect gift for a friend or relative. Let's say that it is a bracelet. Well every time you see them they have the bracelet on. Or maybe it was a crock pot and they've been cooking in it every since you gave it to them. Nothing brings you more joy than to give someone a gift and they absolutely love it and have use for it. Well... God has given us not only our lives but everything that we have in it as gifts to be used and enjoyed. 1 Timothy 6:17 reminds us to put our hope in God, who provides us with everything for our enjoyment. So how do you think it reflects when we sit around moping and complaining about the most minimal things? We appear unappreciative. What if God said, "Oh, you don't like it (life)? Well I'll take it back!" What if He stopped giving you gifts because you don't enjoy or appreciate them? We often get so caught in trying to make a living that we forget to enjoy life. 

In efforts of living lives that are pleasing to God, we tend to focus more on refraining from sin than enjoying God's wonderful works. As we strive to live holy, we confine ourselves to a set of rules that distract us for enjoying life itself. This is especially prevalent with those that are fresh in their walk with the Lord, those that have rededicated their lives to Christ, or those that have developed a commitment to religion and but not necessarily a relationship with Christ. Sometimes we are so focused on the rules of religion that we forget to actually live. When we go through our lives focusing more on whether or not we are sinning, we take the joy out of living. The word says that all have fallen short. Paul told the Romans that even when he wanted to do right, wrong was still in him.  Trust that if you are studying the word and allowing the Holy Spirit into your life, you will be directed towards godly wisdom to help you stay away from sin.  One pastor commented that people can be so heavenly that they aren't any good on earth. :) But God has given us instructions regarding sin to keep us from experiencing harm and sin induced suffering so that we may enjoy life. How ironic that sin is often committed in efforts to enjoy life but God warns us against sinning so that we can enjoy life! Jesus said in John 10:10, “I have come that you may have life and have it to the full.” Solomon said in Ecc. 2:24-26 that we are to “eat and drink and find satisfaction in our work. This too is from the hand of God for without Him who can eat or find enjoyment? To the man who pleases Him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness.”

God wants us to enjoy this life that we have here on earth. Granted everyday won't be roses and sunflowers but I promise that even on your worse day there is something you can find to praise God for in simply enjoying it. How many times have you caught your favorite things on sale or was able to just relax to watch your favorite show? God knows what makes you happy and He wants you to be that way. And back to gift giving: if you gave someone a gift and they enjoyed it, wouldn't you be more apt to giving them gifts more often? Just by living and enjoying life you are showing God with your actions, your fruit, that you are appreciative of Him. 

In addition, as a Christian, our happiness and enjoyment of life is a witness of God's joy to people. People tend to think that Christians don't enjoy life, that we don't have fun, and that a life lived with God is boring and dull. Why would someone want to dedicate their lives to God if you dedicated yours and now you are miserable? Walking around looking pitiful, cooped up in the house never going anywhere but church, trying to hide from anything that ain't holy. That isn't an effective witness, sis. Show the world that God gives you joy! 

God created Adam and Eve to rule over the earth. To work and take care of all of His other creations. So by enjoying life and being productive daily, you are actually being obedient to God. Jesus felt it was so important that we not worry and enjoy life that he blatantly lays out instructions for such in Matthew 6:25-34. Jesus tells us not to worry about tomorrow, what we will eat, drink, or wear. He comforts us in saying that He knows what we need. He is telling us to stop worrying about stuff, trust Him to handle all of that and just enjoy life. The joy of the Lord should be your strength!  

Don't get me wrong, time with God is essential. Your life of praise and worship is important to maintain a relationship with our Savior. But there are things that you do on a daily basis, chores, that are also directly linked to God's purpose for you and the calling on your life. These things bring God praise because you are allowing His will to be done.  Whether it is working a job to provide for a family, spending time with friends to foster relationships and share God's love, or working out to ensure that you are a healthy vessel for His use, God wants you to enjoy your to-do list as much as possible.  It may be helping your child with his/her homework or cooking dinner, lending an ear to a coworker, maybe even going to work to have the funds to help build the kingdom or provide shelter for your family. It could be being a suitable helper for the husband God has blessed you with. These are all things that give God praise because in doing these everyday chores you are fulfilling the will of God. The joy that God gives us to enjoy life comes from peace beyond understanding. It is the realization that despite what happens, all things work together for the good of those that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose. It is contentment in what you have because you know the Lord will supply all of your needs according to His riches. You don't have to worry because you trust that God will give you the desires of your heart if they align with His will so you can enjoy the gift of life. 

All of these things and so many more are obtained through a consistent prayer life, studying the word, and building upon your relationship with God. That is the only way that you know of the promise, that is the only way that the Holy Spirit can enter your heart and give you the peace and guidance necessary to enjoy life. We celebrate the gift of life when a baby enters the world. Let's celebrate everyday that we awake and are able to open the gift again! Live a little, sis. Give God glory with your life! We all want to enjoy life... I just wanted to remind you that God wants you to enjoy life too! 

I love you!,
-Kimyatta

Daily Prayer: Lord, please help me to cast my cares on You so that I may enjoy life. Help me to see the beauty in life and give You glory by enjoying the blessings that You have bestowed upon me. 

Scripture to Study: Now unto him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us... Ephesians 3:20

How to Love...

No girlfriend, not the Lil Wayne song... 

Many of us don't really know how to love or what it is. I know I know, we've been "lovin" all of our lives right? Shoooot, we go way back to giving out Valentine Day cards in Kindergarten. (Some of y'all might have to think back a little bit further than others.) I digress, but the easier of the two questions to answer is what love is. Webster defines love as an intense feeling of deep affection, a deep romantic or sexual attachment to someone, a personified figure of love, often represented as cupid, a friendly form or attraction to. The definition goes on and on through different explanations. However, not one time is God mentioned. Can you believe that? Webster had the audacity to mention Cupid but not God!!! That alone is indicative of the skewed perception we have developed of love. Understanding love is important because it is one of the most important commandments. Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus explains that of the greatest commandments the first is to love God with all of our heart, mind, and souls and secondly that we should love one another as we love ourselves. This is difficult to do if we do not truly understand the concept of love as God intends. 

What is Love? 

Well, sis, GOD IS LOVE. 1 John 4:8 clearly states, "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." So in order for us to know what love is, we must know God. They are one in the same. Building a relationship with, and studying the Word of God for who He is, is the first step to knowing what love is. We have to know who God is. I'll assume we are all on the same page there. So let's dig into the concept of love. It is difficult for us to understand the concept of love because we are not very knowledgeable regarding the principalities in which it was founded.  The first misconception about love is that it is based on a feeling, attraction, or an action. When we go to explain the love we have for someone or something, it is based on how the person treats us, what has been done for us, or how the object makes us feel. If we review the verse previously stated, we can see that there is not an action involved. According to the word, love is not what God does, it is what He is! Therefore, love is not based upon an implied action here. Are there people in your life that you would still "love" if they could never do another thing for you? Be honest with yourself. If your love would leave with whatever actions caused it, then that, my dear is not love. 

The type of love that we display is mercurial, meaning it has the capacity to change from day to day, moment to moment, or situation to situation. We are inept to fall out of love or withhold love based on conditions. Our love is conditional. It is founded upon the conditions that are present. God's love is the exact opposite. It is unconditional. Paul rhetorically asked the Romans "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?" (Romans 8:35) Sis, there is nothing that will make God stop loving us. The closest example that I have seen to unconditional love is that in which a parent has for a child. Despite what the child does, who they become, how many times they mess up, the parent still loves the child. The love for the child is without condition; it doesn't matter whether times are good or bad or what happens the love is still present. It is not so much based on a circumstance. This is similar to the love God has for us, but nothing actually compares. 

How to Love

John 3:16 says, "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."  To turn love into an action that we are able to express we must know how to do so. This scripture gives us direction in that God defined his loved in that He gave something (or Someone). Love is evident in what we give. The greatest love as displayed here was a sacrificial gift. It was given without the expectation of receiving something in return.  We may give or provide for someone we love, as long as it doesn't hinder us...as long as we don't have to sacrifice our own desires. Wow... Keep in mind that these are material possessions that you are withholding from those you love for your own comfort, when God gave His son. In essence, this type of expression says, I love you as long as it doesn't cost me anything. The Word of God tells us however to love each other as He has loved us. Put yourself in Abraham's shoes. (Genesis 22:1-9) What if God told you to sacrifice your only son? Would you question Him? Would you hesitate? I mean, you love your son too much right? Abraham didn't. He prepared his son to be sacrificed without questioning or doubting God because he loved God more and understood that His expression of that love was in his sacrifice. But just as He placed his son on the sacrificial altar, God stopped Him. Abraham had been tested and He found favor with God. He was willing to sacrifice something he loved to be obedient to God. God doesn't even require you to sacrifice those you love, but usually things that can be replaced or acts as free as hugs as expressions of love.

Romans 5:8 says, "But God commendeth his love towards us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Hold on while I shout.......!!! Not only is the love that God has for us sacrificial or without expectation, but it is given in spite of. Although we were sinners and undeserving, He loved us anyway. The word says God has loved us with an everlasting love. (Jeremiah 31:3) This is the very essence of a display of unconditional love. Love is given regardless of how you view a person, what they are capable of doing for you, or how they make you "feel". Despite how undeserving you believe the person is of your love, you are still called to love them. Love, like many other Christian attributes, is based on a decision more than a feeling. God loves us even when we don't deserve it and have wronged Him. In our pursuit of righteousness, we are to do the same for one another. Most folks haven't betrayed us nearly as much as we have betrayed God. 

Matthew 4:43-48 calls our culture out on the practice of the saying love your neighbor and hate your enemies. But Jesus says here that that doesn't make you special. He actually says in verse 46, "If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even tax collectors doing that?" In essence, He is saying that even the worse of the worse (tax collectors were pretty bad back then) love people who love them, but as Christians we are called as always to go a step further. We are to love those that persecute us, that talk about us behind our backs, that are low down to us. If given the opportunity we are to help them and at every opportunity we are to pray for them. That's tough, huh? It may take some practicing but God can soften your heart. He can assist you in not speaking a bad word about those that have wronged you even when you are fully capable of doing so. This pleases God and brings Him glory; when we began to love people as He loves us. Remember sis, it isn't optional. We are talking about eternal life.

More discrete instruction on love is given in one of the most widely used passages regarding love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 is a clear list of instructions on how to love and just as with all other scriptures we are not at liberty to select which ones we will abide by or which ones will relate to us. Love is all of these things, not just the ones we feel we are capable of doing. 

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. ⁸ Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

Here is my explanation of this verse: Love doesn't get mad when others don't do what we want, when we want them to (it's patient). Love is nice, it doesn't have a smart mouth or an attitude all the time (it's kind). Love is not jealous of what people they love have (envious), it doesn't brag on what it has done for it's loved ones (boastful), and it isn't so prideful that it can't ask for help from those it loves (proud). Love doesn't talk behind people's backs or lie to them (dishonor), it doesn't look for how it can benefit from the relationship (self-seeking), and it doesn't stay mad or get mad at any little thing (easily angered). And when someone does mess up, although love might remember it, they won't bring it up in the future because they aren't keeping record of it. Love doesn't purposely hurt others or cheat, it looks forward to doing the right thing. It looks out for others, it trust that they will do the right thing no matter what, and if they don't do the right thing, loves keeps on loving. Love doesn't stop loving...ever. 

I have sacrificed and given up things that I worked hard for for someone I love. Yes, it was difficult but I knew that it was what God told me to do. I've actually sacrificed quite a bit and you know what... everything that I gave up, has come back to me greater than before. To God be the glory! For the sake of love for God and love for others, be obedient to Him. Not all love will require you to sacrificially give, but most of it will.

Soooooo.... about all of that love you have??? Is it really love or is it lust? Lust looks a lot like love but it is actually based on attraction, a feeling, or an action. Ironically the very things we tend to define love with, are the adjectives used to define lust. Lust is a tool of the enemy to deceive us. His ultimate goal is for us to only be in lust with Jesus and each other so that we are not in the will of our Father. Remember, lust changes, love doesn't. Lust is based on circumstances and emotions, love isn't. Love is not easy by far, but it is possible and it is required to get to heaven! If you'll recall earlier we discussed how Jesus said this is one of the greatest commandments. It's pertinent that we get it right. Our lives depend on it. The easiest way for us to show the world the love of God is for us to love one another. Like...really love.  Remember love is a decision. Lust is more of a feeling. 

NOTE: It is important to add that many Christians have a common misconception about love that coincides with the level of relational interaction. I have encountered those that believed that I did not love them because I chose not to deal with them. Just because you are a Christian, commanded to love all, doesn't mean you also have to be a push over. You can certainly love someone unconditionally, just as Jesus does, without dealing with them personally in a close proximity. Jesus loved everyone, but not everyone was chosen to walk closely along side Him. Not everyone that Jesus loved was chosen as a disciple. There is a difference in loving someone and trusting them, and we are given godly wisdom to decipher between the two. So be wise, just because you love someone, it does not entitle them to run a muck in your life, making you quick to anger and pulling you away from love Himself; God. There are people that I do not talk to daily or would go out of my way to spend an excessive amount of time with, but I love them.  Love keeps no ill will in the heart. With Him, it's possible to love everyone. I've been there. We are called to love everyone, not like them! :) It's not an option, sis. It's a commandment. Now stop being nasty to people and do better!

With love (and I mean it),
-Kimyatta 

Daily Prayer: God, please soften my heart and teach me how to love others as You love me. Show me the error of my ways and help me to be an example of love to everyone. Give me the patience to love others unconditionally and forgive me for those I've failed to love thus far.

Scripture to Study: The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 1 Timothy 1:5