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

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

Oh...you're a Christian?

A demonym, also known as a gentilic, is a name of a resident of a country and is derived from the name of the home of origin. The word comes from the Greek word for "populace" and helps to identify residents from a particular place. It is a personal name describing the inhabitants of an area that may be recognized by particular characteristics. The most common suffix for a demonym is "an". Here are some examples:

• Brazili-ans - people from Brazil
• Americ-ans - people from America
• Europe-ans - people from Europe
• Egypti-ans - people from Egypt

Stay with me, sis. I promise there isn't a quiz :) The people of a nation are named according to where they are from and identifiable characteristics. Meaning, if you come across an American in Japan, generally you can tell their nationality by their language, physical traits, and certain habits or mannerisms. The same applies for Egyptians, Europeans, and Brazilians. Interesting, huh? That leads me to this: 

• Christi-ans - people from Christ

The name is tossed around so loosely that it has lost significance. Are you identifiable as a Christian, one from Christ, by your language, physical traits, or certain habits and mannerisms? If you never told anyone outside of your church that you were a Christian, would they know? Even our family names, your last name has significance to many of us. We are proud to be "Sharpes, Williams, Crosses," or whatever. People that don't even know you can look at you sometimes and see a resemblance to your family members. I've definitely had people say to me "Ain't you Carolyn's daughter?" or "You look just like them Stewards". (Pardon the grammar, I'm from the country.) But when it comes to the most important title I hold, a Christian, am I as recognizable? 

When I shared with a colleague that I would be launching a blog for Christian women, she replied "But Kim, are you a Christian? I mean I know you really love Jesus and you've changed a lot. But I thought Christians wore long dresses and talked only about God or did church stuff and you know...kinda act like they think they are better than everybody else. You don't dress like that or act like that. Or maybe sometimes they say they are Christians but they are the same as everybody else. I guess I just know you love Jesus and you seem much better than you use to be." I kid you not...this is exactly what she said. It didn't offend me at all. My thought was "BINGO! Time to witness. Let's go, Holy Spirit!!!" It was an opportunity to tell somebody what it really means to be a Christian. 

Part of the issue, is society's misconception of what a Christian is or looks like. Somewhere along the line, we have given off a false sense of how to identify us. Traditionally Christians may have looked or been portrayed a certain way, due to tradition, denomination, or media. But we should be identifiable based on our relationship with Jesus Christ because that is where we are from. That is where we are "genetically" linked. Those are the habits we should have. Those of people from Christ. I want to act like Jesus did so you'll know we are related. I want to carry myself in a way that exudes joy, peace, and grace. We are called to be 'set apart'; in this world but not of it. Therefore, people in and of this world should be able to tell you are set apart (different) without you telling them. You should look differently, act differently, speak differently. 

So, what are the attributes of a Christian? How do Christian women look? 

Although it doesn't tell us in the bible exactly what outfits we should and should not wear, how much cleavage is acceptable, or how small our shorts can technically be, it does tell us that we should not do anything that would cause a brother or sister in Christ to fall. If wearing what has been deemed as sexy clothes is going to have men lusting and having ungodly thoughts then it's probably not the best option. Granted, some men will do so if you have on a potato sack so there is no need in helping them out. Women of God, Christian women should use modesty as the basis for determining attire. Modesty is behavior, manner, or appearance intended to avoid impropriety or indecency. Now I too struggle with this a bit so it is something that I am working on. I often take a second look in the mirror before wearing certain things and I keep in mind that I am a daughter of the Most High. We can still be beautiful and dress respectfully. We should be presentable, approachable, plus when you look good you feel good. 

Your nationality can also be visible in the way you live. Another way we can become identifiable as Christians is in how we conduct ourselves daily. 1 John 2:6 tells us that whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.  Maybe that's not that clear. Okay, here are some characteristics that the bible gives us that can help us improve our appearance as citizens of Jesus Christ. 

1 John 2:9 further tells us that anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in darkness. If you have hate in your heart, trust me it radiates out and people can tell through your attitude, bitter demeanor, or actions. Verses 15-16 tells us that we should not love the world or anything of the world. This means that we do not lust, be prideful, or live in sin. Christians do what is right, all the time, even when no one is watching (God is always watching by the way). Webster's dictionary considers this as having integrity, but I call it acting like Jesus. Granted we all fall and sinful thoughts are bound to pop in our heads, but there is a difference in it popping there and staying there. Sometimes we really have to stop and ask ourselves that old cliche, "What would Jesus do!?" Seriously. 1 Peter 2:15 says that by doing good, you silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. In your Christian walk, people may talk bad about you. But you should live your life in a way that no one will believe them. 

Colossians 3 tells us that we should set our sights on things above. This is evident in the way we live our lives. Those of us that belong to Christ don't participate in things that are sinful: sexual immorality or impurity (fornication, adultery, etc), evil desires (wishing bad on people), or greed. Do you really think if all I knew about God was the ten commandments and I see you breaking all eleven of them, I'm going to believe that you are a Christian? No ma'am. Definitely not. Going further Colossians gives us more instructions on how to carry ourselves as Christians. We are to rid ourselves of anger, rage, malice, talking bad about people, and filthy language. We should be respectful at all times. And we definitely shouldn't be professional liars. Yeeeah...no, sis. God is the Truth. Clearly He doesn't reside in you and you don't reside in Him if you are compelled to lie every time your lips part. 

We are instructed to clothe ourselves in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. This is what a Christian looks like: pleasant. We are generally joyful, positive, optimistic, and encouraging. We dress with modesty, are well kept, and approachable. We are to love on people, let people know we love them and share the love of God. It will show in our actions. Christians are hard workers because we understand that we are working as though we are working for the Lord. We are to be peaceful....not messy. Not stirring trouble, looking for where the drama is and who is talking about who in their Facebook status so that we can call and tell someone else to look and see. Ah ha! (Forgive us, Lord). 

Christians are encouraging to others, we help the weak and are patient. We don't seek revenge but always strive to do what is good for each other and everyone else. (1 Thessalonians 5: 12-15) More than anything, we should take any opportunity possible to share the message of Christ, teaching those around us and praying with them. Yes, the most identifiable characteristic in where someone is from is when they begin to speak. Learn to speak Jesus, sis! It's so easy to know you are a Christian when people hear your "accent". 

And I'll cheat a little bit and give you one for free. Try to tell people, "God bless you" instead of "Thank you". Offer blessings to people as a sign of gratitude. When you are in the drive-thru getting food, if someone holds the door open for you at the store, or maybe when someone compliments your new hairstyle, instead of saying "Thanks" simply say "Bless you" and smile. Let's redefine what the world thinks a Christian looks like by our appearance and our acts! We are all family, we should all resemble our Father!!! 

Love you, 

-Kimyatta

Daily Prayer: Lord mold me into the image of Jesus Christ. Help me to live my life as a witness to Your kingdom. Make me identifiable God and mark me as a child of Yours, Heavenly Father. I am willing to do whatever I need to so that people will know I am from Christ, alive in Him and Christ lives in me! Make me over. 

Scripture to Study: To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow his steps. 1 Peter 2:21

Dangerous Grace

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,

That saved a wretch like me.

I once was lost but now am found,

Was blind, but now I see.

T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.

And Grace, my fears relieved.

How precious did that Grace appear

The hour I first believed.

Read those lyrics again, sis. Don't just thoughtlessly sing along like you do when you hear it in church. Take a minute and let the lyrics actually sink in. Anybody that has been to church or was raised around somebody's grandma probably knows this hymn. Amazing Grace was written by John Newton over 100 years ago. Newton was a former slave trader who was said to have lived such a sinful, vile lifestyle that it almost drove him insane. He wrote the song after he cried out to God for forgiveness and was born again. Like, Mr. Newton, I was a mess! But because of God's amazing grace, I'm saved. Grace saved me. God has given me grace to enter the Kingdom of Heaven and to access His riches despite the fact that I lived like hell for so long. I definitely don't deserve it. But just like that... God loves me unconditionally and gives me grace to love Him back. And that very same grace, that has saved you as well... is often taken for granted. 

I've known the song since I was a very young child, but a few months back, during worship we began to sing it. Tears filled my eyes as I became overwhelmed with the significance of the lyrics. My heart filled with awe in realizing just what the songwriter was conveying. You see... you don't really understand Amazing Grace until you have been through some stuff; until you have experienced and understand just how amazing God's grace really is. 

Grace is a virtue from God, a gift to man, often considered unmerited favor. It is an undeserved assistance that is not earned or rewarded based on acts. You can't work for grace or get more of it because you are a super Christian. (Ephesians 2:8-9) No matter how bad we mess up or how convicted we feel, God forgives us based on His grace. There are different types of grace but the grace that has been described as amazing is the redeeming grace. It is the grace that allows us to maintain relationship with Christ and get back on a path of righteousness after we've fallen. Ephesians 2:4-5, might be one of the best passages to describe God's grace. (4) But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, (5) made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions - it is by grace you have been saved. Yeah, that is definitely amazing! Maybe I should remind you again...there is nothing that we can do to earn the grace that God gives us, it is received through faith. 

The sad thing is, Christians are dangerous in grace because we fully understand the extent of God's forgiveness. We know that we will be forgiven for our sins if we repent so we enter sin and compromising behavior with knowledge of God's grace and mercy. We then take advantage of this amazing grace that we are given. Romans 6:1-2 says "What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?" Granted, I don't believe we should walk on eggshells; living life by putting more emphasis on trying not to sin than focusing on entering a relationship with Christ. But we also shouldn't take God's grace for granted. Grace is not permission to sin, it is an allowance to live in relationship with God after we sin. I don't believe that allowance extends to when we knowingly sin against God's word. 

It is important that we live in fear and reverence of God. Keep in mind that He holds the power of life and death in His hands and knows the motives of our hearts. As the songwriter said, not only did grace teach His heart to fear God, but it also gave Him peace. Incomprehensible .. just amazing. I say all of that to say this: 

I am guilty and I have heard others prelude a statement by saying "Lord, forgive me but...". If we are asking for forgiveness before even performing the act, that means we are committing premeditated sin. We, in fact, know that the thought we are having, the statement we are making, or the actions we are about to take are not right in God's eyes, therefore we ask for forgiveness first. Are we really asking God for permission to sin??!! The motives of our hearts are not right at all in these situations. 2 Corinthians 6:1 warns us not to take grace in vain. Unfortunately this is a habit that many of us have formed and in efforts of living lives that are acceptable to God, I challenge us to stop this. The next time you begin to say it or hear someone else do so, ask them to reconsider whatever it is they were going to say. James 4:17 says if anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them.  

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

This song has a totally different meaning when you truly understand what all grace has saved you from and how undeserving you are. Yes, grace has saved us from quite a bit thus far but we should never take for granted that we can continue to live as we want and expect to receive God's grace. That is the dangerous part about such an amazing grace. It is important that we repent and turn from ungodliness when God has given us grace because no man knows the time nor hour that the Son will return. 

Grace can be liken to a time period. Grace is the time period when God gives humanity His full mercy and favor. This time period is given so that we might be redeemed from our debt of sin. Our debt is due, yet God extends the payment period to allow us to obtain redemption. That's grace. Don't act like you've never taken advantage of a "grace period". That bill was due yesterday but you don't get paid until tomorrow. You were given a grace period of week to make the payment. Instead of going ahead and paying the bill tomorrow when you get paid... you wait until the last day of the "grace period". Not only that, you now know that the grace period is available so you probably won't pay it on time next month either. See where I'm going honey, that is taking advantage of grace. God gives us a grace period when we mess up. Instead of repenting and not purposely messing up again. We keep messing up because we know he is going to forgive us. Dangerous. 

In addition sis, repenting is more than just telling God you are sorry when asking for His grace. It is letting Him know you are grateful for His grace and won't do it again. Keep a healthy balance of God's grace as a gift to walk closely beside Him despite your falls while having fear and reverence that He can stop giving it to you it at any time. Don't take for granted that God will give us grace. It is unearned and undeserving. Just like with any other gift, the Giver can easily decide to withhold the gift. Not only that.... What if you messed up, intended to repent, forgot, and God called your number before He bestowed His grace? Keep grace amazing... not dangerous. 

The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

When we've been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

With Love, 

-Kimyatta

Daily Prayer: Thank you Father, for your grace. I understand that you didn't have to give it to me and that you don't have to continue to have mercy on me. I know there is nothing I could ever do to repay you. I love and I am grateful that you love me.  

Scripture to Study: However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me-the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. Acts 20:24