Where do you need to go through?
Posted on May 4, 2017 in Purpose in Life by Carolyne
Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John 2 (though Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples), 3 He left Judea and departed again to Galilee. 4 But He needed to go through Samaria.
What do you do when you know your critics are stirred up against you?
Like Jesus, I pray that I’ve and will have the fortitude to keep moving forward in God’s will no matter what. Jesus lived His life with such focus that what was His single most call and purpose-to bring man to light, turn from wickedness in repentance and back into the Kingdom of God! When you and I know what our single tasks is, like Jesus nothing will stop us. In fact, the more the outrage the more we should be energized to keep spreading the good news. Jesus knew, Samaria was the next harvest hub.
3 He left Judea and departed again to Galilee. 4 But He needed to go through Samaria.
Why did you leave your previous job, career, place of birth, one city to another?
When I left my native land, I moved here with a dream in mind to a Wall Street trader. Nevertheless, soon after I realized life was not that easy, and faced many challenges that in hind sight I had to go through. Today, I have come to discern that those challenges, trials and tribulations were necessary for me to get to where I am today and to be in His will for me.
I am persuaded, had I not gone through these challenges, I would not have encountered Christ as I have come to know Him and beheld my life’s purpose-one devoid of illusions and selfishness. Like the Samaritan Woman, the water she originally came to draw become inconsequential upon encountering Christ. She beheld a new vision, and right away had a new message to share with others.
15 The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.”
What is your food? Jesus’ food was to share the Good News and redeem man…
You will have to ask Jesus to give you the Living Water, or the ultimate Dream that is your calling from Him, and one that will yield joy, fulfillment and purpose. The kind of cause that when you engage in; you will not need food… as it will be you food. Jesus, said… “I have food to eat of which you do not know.” 33 Therefore the disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought Him anything to eat?” 34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work.
John Chapter 3
“..Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” 3 Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
The fleshly soul knows only one thing, to defy…
Have you wondered, if Nicodemus really knew Jesus was the God like he dared to flatter Him, why then did he not believe in him? This statements reveals the heart of the man. In that he was testing Jesus which is exactly who he was, a Pharisee (we are made aware of this fact right away.
We ought to be careful about those in our midst or come in pretense to be for us while they are really not of us. Why Jesus noted, we shall know by their fruits. Nicodemus was not interested in believing any word Jesus spoke but rather to engage in debt. Beware of those who distract by circling the issues instead of really hitting it head on.
10 Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things? 11 Most assuredly, I say to you, We speak what We know and testify what We have seen, and you do not receive Our witness. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 1
True love speaks the truth even when it hurts…
We should be willing to call out people in love. Notice, Jesus didn’t debate Nicodemus which would have been optimal for him because he enjoyed going circular on the issue. However, Jesus cut through the chase, and exposed him (see verse above). In addition, Jesus exposed the very thing that blindsided Nicodemus; knowledge. Remember he started out to Jesus by saying “We Know…” Before you can offer insights or help to anyone, seek to know them first. In fact, if we dare listen more people will expose themselves to us, and by this you and I will know what spirit is in that person.
18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
If I judge myself, I will not be judged…
We like to warn each other “do not judged me…” Yet the scripture encourages us to judge ourselves and if we do we will not be judged. So, being that Nicodemus knew the truth in his heart, why was he trying to trick Jesus? Because I believe his root was corrupted (we are alluded to this when we are told he was a Pharisees.). Nevertheless, you and I should never avenge for ourself, or engage in endless augment about the Word of God or godly matters but rather let Christ (the Spirit of Christ) fight for himself. And when He does, He always exposes there lies before us. Let’s choose to believe therefore in Him, He for Him and by Him were all things created! And let’s endeavor to judge ourselves, meaning the Holy Spirit is present among us to convict us of when we need to be in line with Christ.
Flattery always seek to avoid the real issue and see to trick or take advantage of the person whom flattery is directed. Jesus being God in man could see right through. Beware therefore when you come to Christ, come as you are, be without guile for He knows all things.
What were your sticking points?
Got Commitment?
Posted on May 2, 2017 in Purpose in Life by Carolyne
John Chapter 2
5 His mother said to the servants, “Whatever He says to you, do it.”
If you knew you would do not fail what would you do?
Mary, the mother of Jesus knew who her son was since angel Gabriel met her the night her baby was conceived.
Can you imagine where you would be if your parents or in this case your mother encouraged the dreams in you because she knew of the dreams within you? I am not suggesting our mothers are anything less but in right of the belief and the knowledge Mary had, she knew what her son was capable of. Why her confidence was resounding: “Whatever He says just do it!”
17 Then His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten[a] Me up.”[
Your zeal will cause you to turn the world upside down… What inventions, products or services or problems would you be solving if you were to go all out zealously like Jesus did?
Passion cannot be hid! It’s either you have it or your don’t. And when you do on a particular issue or towards a particular value/person, and it (zeal) cannot be quenched. It’s like fire, it catches on and gives fuel and energy to keep on keeping on while inviting other to it’s cause. Jesus demonstrated this clearly reflecting His commitment and values to the things of the Kingdom. Why He could not just stand to see people dinegrate the temple. He had to do something. I wonder what is waiting for you and I to face in order to put things in order in the world?
24 But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men, 25 and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for He knew what was in man.
Commitment Issues: We all fave them. They say beliefs dictates values and values conduct and conduct match our calendar: essence how we spend our most valuable commodity TIME.
TD Jakes, “to the degree one gives himself to medicine is to that degrees he becomes a Doctor.” The same is true for faith or every other issue in life. Hence we each must prioritize our values and walk in our truth.
“The scriptures tells us that Jesus didn’t commit to them because He knew man.” Meaning we men/human being have a tendency to follow another because of what we can get from them etc. Jesus being Omniscient knew the crowd’s heart. In fact, he had just dealt with their greed and love of commerce a few verse before when He kicked them out of the temple. Too, we are told that “they believed because they saw the miracles” aka we believe after we’ve seen with our eyes and that is Not satisfactory because it runs the danger of shallow commitment and Jesus will not have any of that.
To the degree I am committed to Him and pursue Him with a clear head and focus is to the degrees I’ll enjoy great intimacy and revelation of HIM, and all the other additions He promises. Why, “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and al its righteousness and all other things shall be added to you.” ought to be our anthem in heart, mind and action. At least that what I desire… only He knows if am there or not.
What did you take away from the study? Remain blessed!
In His Love,
Who Are You?
Posted on May 1, 2017 in Purpose in Life by Carolyne
John chapter 1
3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.
If all things were made by Him, that means you and I are no exception. Whether you believe it or not… you included in “in all things were made by Him…” So, wouldn’t you agree that it’s is wise then to ask He who created you what He thinks of you? What He expects of you? What He sees ahead of you in your life? I endeavor to inquire of Him and have when it comes to what He designed me to do. And just like He created a bird in flight or fish to dwell in water, I believe there is a place and activity that ONLY YOU are designed to do… and when you do, you receive immense joy, fulfillment, purpose as you engage in this task. Too, you add incredible value to those you serve and supply your goods/products or services.
19 Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?”
In this world, you and I constantly face skeptics or challenges who want to ask who we are, not because they really care to know but because they simply love to challenge others existence, value or what they are doing? I have found that when people ask you who yo are, instead of cowering away, you ought to face them squarely because the questions alludes to some incredible things they discern about you, and because they undermine you in some regard hence they feel the need to challenge you or intimidate you.
“…Because I said to you, ‘I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” 51 And He said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, hereafter[j]you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.”
When you and I behold and encounter Jesus as He is, He will also reveal to us who we are in Him and much much more… Why it behoves you and I to inquire of Him who were are… or better how would He go about introducing us, or what name would He give you and me if we dared encounter Him? Upon Nathaniel believing in Him, he not only responded in confession and amazement, but Jesus also showed him many great things about Him and promised even more great thing. “the heavens were open for his glance.” how would you like to see what’s in store for you through His lenses?
Embrace all… What?
Posted on December 25, 2015 in Purpose in Life by Carolyne
Happy December! Yes, we are still in December for those of you who are longing for the New Year… don’t rush it, let’s take time to relish in the NOW and how far we have come for the last 12 months. As the song writer wrote, count your blessings, one by one. Much has happened, some started the year with us and are no more, some have encountered challenges and oppositions yet some have experienced great breakthroughs, promotions, joys on many levels in relationship, education, career, business, etc. Whatever the case, let your 2015 go down as your best year yet!
Let’s consider this scripture, “They soon forgot His works; they did not wait/consider His counsel.” Psalms 106:13 These Word challenged me as I realized how quick I am to descending to the place of sorrow that is often ensued by remarkable moment/successes in my life. Then it dawned on me that I had forgotten that some of the high moments I have experienced this year were as a result of some of the deepest pain and experiences I have been through. To keep the right perspectives here are some points that I have found helpful.
1. Awake
Awake or acknowledge where you are, without judgment or attachment to the past, present or future. Remember no one owes you anything but only you can choose to give, afford yourself whatever you wish–a mindset, a new belief system, forgiveness, or a physical thing. What you own will own you, so learn to own only that which is of value to you and let go of what is not serving you.
2. Awareness
Be aware of what you are going through. Whether you know it or not, your feelings/emotions influence your thoughts, words and ultimately your behavior. Truly, “as a man thinks so is he/she.” So, awareness is the first step to any breakthrough because if you can identify, acknowledge and be aware of that thing, it begins to loose its grip on you—and that is breakthrough in on itself. Only what you give meaning and power holds you down or raises you up!
3. Affirm
Affirm yourself in your next move forward. Now that you’ve identified the issue or state of mind that triggers the cause of your actions/behavior, it is time to uninstall the old software and install anew software—the one pivoted to what you want to achieve moving forward. You will only find a breakthrough if you are willing to get rid of the old belief and replace it with an empowering one. It’s like uninstalling an infected software from your computer in this case your head, and installing a new one.
Friends, I wish to encourage you by the word of the LORD not to despise where you’ve been, are or find yourself because of what transpired since January or even before then. But rather to exhort you to believe and embrace the truth—that Your Maker knows your end from your beginning. Note that nothing last forever, and that it’s in the duality of life where we find meaning, purpose and fulfillment even in the things we suffer through. Even Jesus learned obedience through the things He suffered! Yes, your challenges, sorrow or pain will turn to victory, joy and peace in His timing if you hold on to His promises in faith. Don’t take it from me, listen to Solomon, “sorrow is better than laughter, for by a sad countenance the heart is made better.” Eccles.7:3.
As we conclude 2015, let us count our blessings one by one, embrace the good, the bad and the ugly, and allow He who knows all to guide and direct our path in trust—trusting that He knows all–and that His will is to prosper you and I despite our experiences. And, whatever 2015 represent for you, I pray His grace will lead you to see the beauty, treasures and wisdom of then, to seeing the joy, glory, victories and growth looming ahead by keeping your heart content whether you be with or be without. May 2015 be your best yet, and may your future be even brighter. Wishing you a merry Christ-Mass and a blessed 2016!!!
What Are You Grateful For?
Posted on November 11, 2015 in Purpose in Life by Carolyne
Happy November! He who is faithful has brought us this far-all glory and honor be unto HIM! I am so thankful and excited that so far this year has been one filled with great adventures for me, and I hope for you as well.
In the last week, I have learned much about discernment, integrity and faithfulness in the simplest of tasks. Note however; I don’t claim to have attained in these beatitudes but I know the Faithful One is perfecting me.
So, I found myself doubting while almost at the door to embark on a short trip I had planned in heart and mind for about a month. My reasons for wanting to back down was due to the fact that I innocently failed to reserve my spot, and so just a few minutes to the door I picked up the phone to call, and of course could not go through.
Momentarily I thought, it would be foolish of me to venture out plan-less, but then a thought came to me saying, “if you believe you are going to your Father’s house then just show up. A double minded man cannot receive anything from God.” Right there I was activated with such intensity to forge forward as I discerned I was in a battle field of the mind or the spiritual conspiracy if you know what I mean. And so, I went, and although I felt like I didn’t fully accomplish much as I desired to; I realized just before I left to return home that I was there to learn to approve myself in faith as well follow through–integrity. Romans
14:22 says, “Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves (or decides, my word). But he who doubts is condemn if he eats (or acts), because he does not do the action/whatever, my word) from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin.”
What I learned:
- Discernment: Is when you are able to extricate between the two opposing thoughts in your head or ways before you.
- Integrity: When you do and follow through on what you said you would do without backing down… unless it’s wrong and you come to realize your wrong then by all means forsake the error and go with the right.
- Faithfulness: Is when you consistently do the above well till the end of time–whatever good and in this case the faith and confession we have in Christ which allows you and I to walk the discernment and integrity.
Oh, how I need the Holy Spirit help to do any of the above for I recognize my heart desires each of these principles but to walk them out I need His grace and strength. The Romans scripture helped see things from another viewpoint as well: that when I judge my ways and conduct in right of faith before God or His Word I will be accepted by God and be approved by man. See Romans 14:18, meaning there is s place for judgement and I.e in my own heart. A lot of us like to say do not judge, and yes we should not judge others but we should be able to judge our hearts on why we feel or see what we see in the other–the person whom judgment in this case is attributed to. Hence the Word’s admonishment, if you judge yourself you will not be judged. 1 Corinthians 11:31.
Moving forward, I pray the Holy Spirit who has shed abroad His love in my heart and yours continue to teach me His ways, and guide me into all truth because what I know to do, I don’t do and do do what I know not to do! In all, I am happy HE is a good good Father and a good father knows his child’s weaknesses and comes to the child’s aid always! So, in Him I can and I am confident I can do all things in Christ Jesus who strengthens me! I pray you and I will take some time to reflect on those simple ways in us that HE is tweaking and tagging so as to prefect us in our weaknesses, and be grateful giving Him thanks that He loves us No Matter What!!!
Have You Ever Been Mocked?
Posted on October 5, 2015 in Purpose in Life by Carolyne
Happy October! The Tenth month of the year is here…woohooo! The Almighty has seen us through, ooh how excellent are His ways and goodness!!!
I find that I ushered this month with a renewed vigor and resolve one that has been lurking within. And although a few conflicts (as I shared earlier) seem to have been the catapulting force, I Now know the Holy Spirit was flushing gunk out me to make a way for the new season. So, I feel there is a breaking to a new order in my life and I cannot explain but I know as it is in His Kingdom so it in my life!
Job said, “But He know the way I take when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.” Recently I had an acquaintance (as I see we hold different values) advise me on single hood, marriage, life etc. Frankly, I almost blasted him off but somehow I let it be. But in my prayers I demand God vindicate me from such life analyst. Today however, while in similar posture in prayer; this Word came to me, and I just cannot help but laugh at the enemy for he sought to mock me, but oh no no no… HE knows the way I take, and after His testing I shall come forth as gold! Ref Job 23:10-14. I thank God therefore for my Boaz, He is drawing near and even if it’s not so, Jesus is more than enough for me!!!
So, if you have situations or people mocking you, remember it could be a test. Endeavor to overcome through Christ and He will reward you if you faint not! Also, remember Never Never Never consider advise from those whose values are contrary from yours especially when it has to do with the very values that you’ve chosen to live by (see Psalms 1). Lastly, the Word declares, ”He who waits on LORD shall never be put to shame” Psalms 25:3. And if you truly believe He is with you do not act hastily stand your ground! (see Isaiah 28:16), as dawn of day comes each morning with no fail He will come. Have blessed October & rejoice in all things!!! http://youtu.be/2RmZFaruXhs.
How Do Resolve Conflicts Effectively?
Posted on September 8, 2015 in Issues we all face, Purpose in Life by Carolyne
Happy September! Yes, it is our last leg of 3rd quarter in case you keep track. For me, I started the month attracting all sorts of conflicts with people. At first, I reacted and expressed my two cents which was of course not the godly type of response (help me Holy Spirit), and after a minute or so you guessed it; I was back repenting and begging for forgiveness.
Thankfully all went well in the end, but what I have learned from this is the truth and life in these Words: “The end of a thing is better than its beginning; The patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit. Do not hasten in your spirit to be angry, For anger rests in the bosom of fools. Do not say, “Why were the former days better than these?” For you do not inquire wisely concerning this.” Ecceles: 7:8-10.
Today, I have learned the power of holding my peace before exploding and that in every conflict there is much to learn–a lesson necessary in life and inevitable if one is to live with people and/or walk in wisdom when the next conflict shows up…this is inevitable by the way; unless you are in space?!
So, instead of avoiding conflicts; confront them head on, but only after seeking the LORD in prayer, and then face the person squarely, resolve the matter, and peace will abide with you! Psalms 26 really helped me let go! Whatever comes your way though, my prayer is that you will embrace things stoically with the power of the Holy Spirit, and learn the wisdom necessary for you as well as the blessings that lurks with some trials/ conflicts. Yes, sometime these challenges/trials are from God to train you and I, and are often ensued with a promotion if you triumph. May you therefore move from glory to glory, strength to strength in September and beyond. I pray your September will be free of conflict in Jesus name! Hugs,
Gratitude And Generosity Are Keys To A Fulfilled Life
Posted on August 19, 2015 in Purpose in Life by Carolyne
Some of the greatest luminaries of our time like Mother Teresa transformed the world in which they lived, and left us a great example of what kindness, joy and a meaningful life looks like.
I used to think I have to be in great shape in all aspect of my life to be able to stand tall to help others in the midst of the storms of life. I have come to realize that I was in delusion for only the delusional can entertain these type of thoughts. You see, no one is perfect and in fact no will ever be perfect. So, to beguile yourself with the idea that you will come to aid of another when you have is a complete fallacy and one that will delude your thinking to dispondency, despair and apathy.
People like Mother Teresa did not wait until they had billions of dollars to feed and clothe the hungry, but rather decided they were going to do it anyway. Today, the history honos the because they were courageous enough to not only pursue their hearts desires but to do so in serving another. This is mind boggling to the one who sit around waiting for help to land on their laps, but to those who decide and determine they will be the help instead–their decision thus becomes the making of a legacy that history lives to remember.
In considering how such noble men and women came to garner the world`s reverence and honor, it dawned on me that it was not because they were extra ordinary but rather they opted for the extraordinary path. They believed in the good and well being of others, and thus set out to fulfill in that domain by way of giving of themselves. Leading me to conclude that when you and I decide to live in gratitude, no fear or limitation can hinder us because by the very idea of gratefulness denotes that you have all that you need within you, and that you cannot be diminished not by situations, things or circumstance. This way of thinking allows you and I to transcend our present moment and allows us to operate from a place of abundance. And once we embrace this truth, it becomes our reality and an impetus to give.
Joyful giving flows from the seat of the soul that believes there is more, and that an unquenchable stream flows from within–the very source of all. This is the mindset and belief that allows one to feel indebted to the source, or the giver. And the constant act of thanksgiving thus remain the how to receive, and perpetuate the streams flow from the giver to the receiver and then to those around the reciver and the world at large! I once heard someone remark that a lake without an outlet or outflow grows salty. While salt is great to add savor, it actually kills if it is not in the right amount. Are you killing your dreams by complaining, blaming others, pointing fingures at what is not working or wrong around you or are you choosing to be the salt in right amounts so as to bring order, smiles, joy and life to those around you?
If you want to grow or achieve your dreams avoid people who:
Selfish
Ungrateful
Complain
Blame
Judgemental
Unsatisfied
Proud
Lastly, life is governed by principles that never change… so, the sooner you and I learned to embrace a malleable mindset the better of we will be. Some call it changing our perspectives to choose to see the world in new lenses– and while that may be hard at first, I gurantee you it is well worth it if you espouse the new thinking! Remember what King Solomon said, as a man thinketh so is he!
What is Your Response?
Posted on July 9, 2015 in Purpose in Life by Carolyne
How do you respond to life challenges? You may have heard of the phrase, `change is the only constant thing in life!` All else will fluctuate from time to time be it health, wealth, career, family or happiness whatever, each of us is bound to experience some set backs in these areas at one time or another in the course of our lifes. The illusion of control and the looming future may often leave us feeling like we are not making progress no matter what we do. The key however is constant assesement of our actions daily, weekly, monthly or whatever works for you so as to ensure we are intune with what important to us-our values and beliefs.
Values and beliefs are said to be among the key drivers to any human behaviors. And whether you and I are aware or not we are driven to action or inaction based on what we hold important to ourselves or what we belief. I find this duality of thought interesting; one end there is empowerment while on the other the belief could be either passed on by parents, socieity, religion or d essence is that one could be holding a particular belief and not even be aware of it.
Awareness thus become the first step to unravelling the mystery all things considered. True change only comes to those who desire it or are tired of going through the rut. In my experience, small steps could lead to major breakthroughs as long us one is really willing to be honest with themselves. Take for instance if one is not happy with ther weight; it does not matter what they do or whad diet they engage in, as long as the person has not dealt with the backdrop issue causing them to feel overweight or disatisfied with their current weight, there little to nothing anyone can do to help such an individual.
Nevertheless, simple steps towards the desired life could be the trigger to a windfall like breakthrough. Here are some steps that work no matter what the challenge one is facing:
- Acknowledge a problem exist.
- Acknowledge you need help.
- Have a clear goal of what exactly you want (a plan).
- Seek help of another… a mentor, coach or even a friend who you know is capabale and willing to help you meet your goal.
- Schedule your actions.
- Do or follow through on your schedule.
- Commit yourself to the process.
- Assess your progress as you go.
- Celebrate when you reach your desired outcome.
- Iterate the very steps for whatever else you need to change in any other area of your life.
If you respond to whatever challenge by following through each of these steps, and be consistently over a period of time, you will get to your desired results no matter what. It is kind of like when you were in grade school. You had to be there at a certain time, attended the same class in a set time of the day for a months, year, and the next, but eventually you earned that diploma! There are no short cuts to life or to anything worthwhile in life, howevers; some of us have grown dependent to the 10 days weight loss programs, or whatever quick fix schemes out there. But they never work for the long haul. Being that I have been there done that, I have concluded that the old adage is true- quick come quick go or simply put, hurry hurry has no blessings!!