The Wedding Invitation

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2012-02-27T12:26:00.005-05:00

CHECK THE BAGS AT THE DOOR
1 Thessalonians 5:16-23

I'm sure that at some point during a shopping experience, when you purchase items from one store and move to the next, you will be asked to leave your bags at the front desk. I realize that this is for security purposes. This is a policy set in place so that one does not leave the store with items that didn't come with--in other words, steal. In another instance, when traveling by plane, one is allowed to carry on two baggage-a purse or laptop case and one smaller luggage. All other bags must be checked in at the kiosk or front desk to be loaded underneath the plane. Now for those bags that are carried aboard the plane, they must be scanned and checked before boarding the aircraft. Again, this is at the expense of security.

In both instances, the baggage check can be annoying, bothersome and even to some degree feel like a violation of your privacy and freedom. However, one advantage to both situations is that it lessens the weight of the access baggage that one has to travel with or carry around. This provides more comfort, convenience and ease to move about.

Trying to carry the weight of too much baggage is impossible. In the case with shopping, there have been times when others may even ask you to carry or hold on to their bags; as if you don't have enough of your own. Even with one bag to carry around, it's access weight that can weigh you down. During this time of restoration and reconciliation, God is saying to check the bags at the door: drop the weight of your own and the baggage that others have put upon you. Maybe someone lied about you or to you, causing anger and offense; someone abandoned you, causing resentment; someone even made promises to you in the good intents of their heart and failed to come through, causing disappointment, but now it's now time to remove and get free of all the unnecessary access clutter and debris that's being dragged around. The only way to freely receive what God has promised you is to get rid of the stuff that has your hands already preoccupied.

Each of us has held on to things, far too long, that God has neither desired for us to have nor has He promised. Carrying the baggage that comes along with: unforgiveness, resentment, disappointment, hurt, anger, pain, grief, offense, oppression, depression, anxieties, fear and worry, keeps the hands of God tied and shuts the window of opportunity for healing to come into our lives. Everything attached to this type of baggage revokes the Word of God. The baggage of unforgiveness and offense causes a delaying in healing-physically, emotionally, spiritually, financially and psychologically. When the prayers aren't answered, the heart is prone to become harder to hearing and obeying the Word of God.

Be encouraged! This is your hour of healing and restoration. The only one to keep you from God's expected end is you. Your life is filled with purpose, promise and greatness; all to the glory of God and for the increase of the Kingdom. It is now time that you walk in forgiveness of others and yourself; declare and obey the Word of God and; let your faith and trust be renewed daily to the will of God.

Let this word bless you:

Rejoice always,17 pray without ceasing,18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.19 Do not quench the Spirit.20 Do not despise prophecies.21 Test all things; hold fast what is good.22 Abstain from every form of evil. 23 Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
( 1 Thessalonians 5:16-23)

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2012-02-20T13:35:00.002-05:00

PACE YOURSELF; BUT DON’T QUIT

Greetings to each of you on this day. I pray that each of you find that the mercies of God have rested upon you.

It is natural to, at times, feel overwhelmed and even to the point that you may feel tired. In our everyday lives, we can find ourselves pouring out into the lives of others. Family, friends, the boss on the job, our service to the body of Christ and obedience to God—yes obedience to God—can at times feel extremely demanding.

Certainly, we all have responsibilities that requires our attention and for the most part, the things that we have to do are not just things that we can merely chose to overlook. However, it is life threatening to become excessively combated with carrying the weight of the world. As a body of believers, God has charged each of us to “be a light” (Acts 13:47). It is our purpose in the earth to increase the kingdom by being a light so that the unrighteous may be saved. Nonetheless, we are all limited in our human capacity and cannot function on little or no fuel.

God has not called us to consistently sow into the lives of others without replenishing the strength we need for both our natural and spiritual being. We’ve each heard it at some point illustrated how, a runner, must pace themselves in order to successfully complete the race. Even the most experienced runner cannot push their bodies beyond the limit of its physical capacity to endure. If the runner over exerts themselves, they risk fainting, bodily injury or an injury that could be far more tragic.

I Corinthians 9:24-27, Paul clearly express the necessity of staying in the race, however pacing ourselves in order to avoid burn-out before getting to the finished line.

24Don’t you know that all the runners in the stadium run, but only one

24Don’t you know that all the runners in the stadium run, but only one gets the prize? So run to win.25 Everyone who competes practices self-discipline in everything. The runners do this to get a crown of leaves that shrivel up and die, but we do it to receive a crown that never dies.26 So now this is how I run—not without a clear goal in sight. I fight like a boxer in the ring, not like someone who is shadowboxing.27 Rather I’m landing punches on my own body and subduing it like a slave. I do this to be sure that I myself won’t be disqualified after preaching to others.

Your running is not in vain; you can’t afford to quit. You’ve come too far to simply give up and throw in the towel. Hebrews 11:6c says, “[H]e is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” God is a faithful to give us what we need. He will reward us for our consistent obedience to the call to serve Him and others who are in need. As with any race, there will be moments of weariness and even feelings of exhaustion, but it is in those moments that we must see the prize before us and keep pressing until we've reached the finished line. Jesus said, "No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62). Others have remained in the race because of your faithfulness and they need your support in order that they may finish the race. Encourage the one alongside you; it will also strengthen you.
PACE YOURSELF, BUT DON’T QUIT!

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2012-02-13T01:08:00.005-05:00

RESTORED WITH EXCELLENCE

Nahum 2:1-2a

Almost 12 years ago, my grandfather passed away. It was a very difficult moment in my life; possibly one of the most difficult. I was raised by my grandparents and so, I related to my grandfather as if he was my father. Since his passing was sudden and very unexpected, there are moments when I still struggle with his absence. However, I’m able to be at peace believing his soul is now rested in the heaven.

A change in the status of a relationship can be life altering. Naturally, we become intimately connected with loved ones and even in friendships; thus making it difficult to accept when that status changes. It may not be death in all cases, but it could be a terminal illness, the diagnosis of life threatening disease, or the decline in the health of a friend or loved one. It may also be something as altering as a friend or loved one experiencing divorce, a poor change in economic status or the emotional impact of relocation or being called to war. Whatever the case, life has a multiplicity of experiences, but how one choses to deal with them will either strengthen them or stop them in their tracks.

Life presents many difficult experiences, but rest assured that God has not plotted to take you out. The challenging times you will face in your life has not come to take you out! I John 4:4 states, “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."

Relationship statuses will change; job statuses will change; your body and all the body features will change as you get older. Be comforted and know that God has not removed His concern for you. He has not taken His eyes off you; He sees, he hears, he knows. Isaiah 59:1 says, “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; nor His ear heavy, that it cannot hear.”

No matter the loss you experience in this life, God will restore you the more. In your broken places, He will restore; In your hurting places, He will restore. In the places you’re feeling forgotten and abandoned, He’ll restore. In your desert places, He will restore.

He will restore with EXCELLENCE!

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

Nahum 2:1-2a--¹Your enemy is coming to crush you, Nineveh. Man the ramparts! Watch the roads! Prepare your defenses! Call out your forces! ² Even though the destroyer has destroyed Judah, the LORD will restore its honor…”

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2012-02-06T12:58:00.000-05:00

Positioned for the Supernatural Possibilities

Ephesians 3:20

Good morning and blessings to everyone. Once again, it has been the hands of God that have kept us and by His loving kindness and tender mercies we are alive.

I am excited as I received this word on just yesterday. I believe it is a word to be shared with all as I know, according to the Word of God, our Father desires that we lack in nothing. This is not a “how to get rich” word, but this is a word of obedience and submission in its fullest.

Many of us know, by heart, the passage from Ephesians 3:20, as it states, “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us…” I’ve heard this passage stated in the church for many years and yet, God has provided greater clarity in its meaning.

As I heard the words “position yourself for the supernatural possibilities of God,” I in turn was given the passage from Ephesians 3:20. I can honestly admit that immediately my thoughts were that of increase. In the natural, when one hears words like, “exceeding” and “abundantly” the brain instantly thinks increase. And yes, the word is one of increase; however, this word is contingent upon obedience.

How does one receive the “exceeding abundance?” The word that comes is about one’s pure and sincere obedience to God. In order to receive from God, we must hear the Word and therefore, obey the Word. Let me be clear: this is not about working to profit or gain the blessings, but a life lived unto Christ is about reverencing Him as sovereign, righteous and holy. It is through one’s reverence of Him as the omniscient God that we receive “the power that worketh.” This power is one that enables us to remain faithful and submissive to the will of God. Outside of the will and obedience of God, there is no power. Simply expressed in the Gospel according to John 14:15, Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments.”

We must pray; we must fast; we must serve; we must love; we must commune; we must fellowship and yet, when we do all these things without a reverence and obedience to God, we still miss the mark. There are those who are standing in the corridor and in the lobby waiting with expectation and they desire the sincere milk of the Word of God, yet they fail to see the reverence and the power of God being lived out in the lives of those who profess to be followers of Christ. It is the earnest confession of the Believer in which others are drawn and are able to receive the gift of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. No one has to feel as though the Gospel, the blessings and the mercies of God are unattainable. No one has to stand outside the gates, observing feeling as though there’s no way to be redeemed.

Be encouraged; yet remain focused. In order to live in the abundance of God, we must remain in the will of God; which is His Word. It’s okay to live with expectancy, but there must first be obedience. God’s blessings are always contingent upon a life that is lived in obedience to His word. Obedience is the door that leads to the supernatural possibilities of God.

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2012-01-30T06:52:00.000-05:00

God Is Mindful of You

Psalm 8:4; Jeremiah 17:7

Greetings and blessings to each of you. I know that the love of God has rested upon you today and I pray that He will continue to pour out an abundance of mercies upon you.

For me, the most frustrating part in relocating has been applying for a new job. Coming from our previous location of a three year homestead, and the one prior to that one for ten years, relocating was not only frustrating, but taxing. The thought of again applying for a job with the present state of the economy was somewhat discouraging. After having become familiar with our present homestead, securing employment meant I would need high visibility and marketability in this area that is extremely competitive, while faced with a likelihood of a lengthy and/or stressful commute. Honestly, I wasn’t sure I wanted to accept the pressures with either.

Before we arrived in Virginia, I was advised on how to pursue or go about getting employed. Some said I would have to volunteer; others said I would have to frequent the local job fairs; and others simply said apply to every job I qualified. I followed through with all the advice that I was given, but I was becoming overwhelmed. Finding a job had become a full-time “job”.

One day, while feeling very exhausted because of the amount of energy job hunting was requiring, I said to God, “I don’t know what I’m doing; I don’t know where to go and I really don’t know the kind of job I should apply for… LORD, I NEED YOUR HELP!” Having sincerely released the matter into God’s hands, I instantly experienced peace. I still prayed and asked God for His favor in the matter, but I didn’t allow the matter to worry me from day-to-day. I did what was necessary for getting hired: posted my resume on various websites; pursued job fairs; consulted with temp services; to include volunteering. Though interviewed for two positions, both of which seemed promising, I didn’t receive a call-back.

Shortly before Christmas, I received a call concerning employment. The man introduced himself and provided the name of the company. He explained that he pulled my resume from a job website. He continued that they were seeking to fill a position and, if I was still in the market, they would like to schedule for an interview. He did a brief, initial interview over the phone, and in ending the conversation stated that he would be in touch with me within the following week after speaking with other partners per the initial interview. It was not until a few days after Christmas, he called to schedule an interview at MY earliest convenience. After confirming the interview date and, thus completing the face-to-face interview; I received a call within a few short hours following to schedule one final interview on the following day. Finally, after completing the final interview on a Wednesday afternoon, I received a call the following Thursday morning to say they wanted to offer me the position: all happening in the span of a five week time frame.

First, pardon me if that seemed to be the long route for simply saying, “I was hired,” but it was necessary for this reason: I did not ask for this job. When I say I didn’t ask for it, meaning, I did not apply for the job. What are the chances that my resume out of thousands in a database would be hand selected by the hiring agency and thus selected for the job? While God in His awesome splendor and wonder, not only blessed me with the job, but sweetened it with a work week consisting of Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with to include an awesome rate of pay. I’m still speechless at the thought of it.

If you’re not mindful of any part of this devotional, please know this: THE LORD GOD RULES! There will never be a time when God will allow anything or anyone to receive the glory for the goodness that He pours upon us and into our lives. God is the source of everything good and when we’re not able to trust Him to take care of us, as we should, He certainly has a way of removing that doubt. Some would peradventure to say, “Wow, you’re lucky!” But I stand to differ and say, “Luck ain’t never been too good; GOD IS ALWAYS GOOD!”

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2012-01-23T11:43:00.000-05:00

What Are You Waiting For?

Mark 5:25-34

In life, we are faced with our own ISSUES. No matter the degree, the ISSUE(s) has the potential to bankrupt a person of their spiritual, physical and emotional will. Most bible readers know the story of the woman with an issue of blood. This woman suffered from a blood condition for twelve years. And sadly, after having gone all the places she’d gone and out of all the people she’d sought out for a cure, “she was no better, but rather grew worse.”

Despite the situation, this woman wanted to live and live free. She desired life and life abundantly. She POSITIONED herself TO HEAR THE WORD, she PURPOSED IN her HEART to get to where He was, and though there was a crowd, she REMAINED DETERMINED to RECEIVE.

POSITION YOURSELF TO HEAR THE WORD: There is a word of healing and restoration concerning you. Romans 10:17 says, “So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” The word of God, being His will, has to be pursued. If you are not in position to hear the word, then those ISSUES will remain. If you’ve been told there’s a gift waiting for you, but the only way to receive is to come to a particular location; then you know that you must get there. POSITIONING YOURSELF TO HEAR THE WORD means getting where you need to be; when you need to be there: the church, a prayer line, a bible study, a women’s/men’s study group—get there.

PURPOSE IN YOUR HEART: Like the woman, be committed to getting delivered of the ISSUE(s). Jesus Christ is the Redeemer. It is the shedded blood of the Christ that purifies, washes and cleanses. The woman believed that Jesus was able to heal her; therefore, she a purposed in her heart to get close to Him so that she would be made whole. PURPOSE IN YOUR HEART to get close to Jesus so that you can be made whole. It’s time to put a plug on the ISSUE(s) and stop the flow of the curses that comes from the enemy: satan. Luke 4:18 says, “…He has sent Me [Jesus] to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed.”

REMAIN DETEREMINED TO RECEIVE: Just as sure as you live, the ISSUE(s) will come. Though the ISSUE, we win! We are declared victorious (Romans 8:37); when we’re weak, He is our strength (II Corinthians 12:9); though guilty, made righteous (Galatians 4:7); though hopeless; there’s hope (Psalm 34:17). Like the woman with the issue of blood, press your way that you may be restored. No matter what, remain determined to receive.

What are you waiting for? The woman believed that she would be healed and therefore, her response was activated by her faith. Is your response being delayed by a lack of faith? Are you afraid or ashamed? Do you feel like the crowd has pushed you to the back of the line and now getting to Jesus seems so hard? Get to where you need to be so that you may be healed and restored: mind, body, soul and spirit.

What you’re in need of is as close as believing.

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2012-01-16T11:47:00.000-05:00

"The young lions lack and suffer hunger; But those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing."—(Psalm 34:10)

HE IS JEHOVAH JIREH: THE LORD WHO WILL SEE TO IT

God is a limitless supplier of everything we need. Every need we have, God guarantees to meet it. As I begin to think and meditate on the word as it relates to God being a supplier of meeting my needs, my own simple and very constricted thoughts were; food, clothing, shelter, money -the basic superficial necessities. All of which are so very needful and important in our daily living; but these are only things and they limit and constrain the depth and degree for which God provides.

Philippians 4:19 declares, "But my God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." The meaning of this scripture is so very intricately spoken and its meaning is so grand that the natural mind can't conceive it. The wealth of God is described in this short passage and what once seemed unattainable, I now realize that, as the children of God, there's nothing we'll ever lack.

Let's look at the definition of four words from the scripture: SUPPLY, ALL, NEED, and RICH

SUPPLY: to provide for: satisfy: to make available for use: provide: to satisfy the needs or wishes of

ALL: the whole amount, quantity, or extent of: as much as possible: the whole number or sum of: every: any whatever

NEED: a lack of something requisite, desirable, or useful: a physiological or psychological requirement for the well-being of an organism: a condition requiring supply or relief: lack of the means of subsistence: poverty

RICH: having abundant possessions and especially material wealth: well supplied or endowed: magnificently impressive: sumptuous

Relative to the passage of scripture, this is how the Holy Spirit translated it for my clarity:

My God, in His wealth, shall abundantly satisfy, endow, provide and make available to you, with excellent beauty, the whole amount and the sum of whatever you require, lack, desire and deem useful-psychologically and physiologically-by Christ Jesus.

The Father will provide and respond to the need of those who are of the House. He limitlessly and abundantly supplies to their needs. In other words, the Father's meets the needs of His children. Nevertheless, for those who have wandered away, the Great Shepherd of the sheep knows they'll return. Isaiah 53:6 says, "All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the LORD laid on him the sins of us all." The sheep will return because they know the voice of their Shepherd. They realize there's no other shepherd who provides like the true Shepherd: God, the Father; through Jesus Christ, our Savior & Redeemer.

God has everything in abundance. He has a storehouse that overflows from which, by faith, we are able to receive. It is by the redeemed work of Jesus Christ, that we as believers have become recipients of the abundant wealth of the Kingdom of God. Everything—excluding nothing—that would result in lack, Jesus Christ victoriously redeemed back to us through His resurrection.

There's nothing you can imagine, that God has not already provided; nothing you will encounter, He's not already worked out; everything you need; He's got it! He is a supplier for your EVERY personal, special and specific need: wanting you to lack in no good thing: in relationships, emotionally, spiritually, physically, and financially-EVERYTHING. He is JEHOVAH JIREH: the Lord Who provides-The Lord Who Sees-The Lord Who will see to it.

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2012-01-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

HAVE YOU READ A “GOOD BOOK” LATELY?

Joshua 1:8

As an English major, I became very enthused and intrigued by how we are able to communicate through the use of written language. I was even more intrigued with analyzing various periods, events and histories of literature, how we’re able to gain knowledge of the era and time of which the authors spoke and related to. Perhaps, my most favorite aspect in studying the various literatures was being able to analyze the work from a historical and aesthetic context.

On an aside, I find it interesting that, government has declared it “politically incorrect” to use the term “Christmas,” and yet our money reads, “IN GOD WE TRUST.” I find it interesting that, government has removed prayer from the classroom, and yet we stand to “pledge allegiance…one nation, UNDER GOD, indivisibly (meaning-undivided)…” And as I refer back to literature, most of the writings, in many respects, reference biblical text or passages. For anyone whose studied or read any literary work or movement—Old English, Middle English, Modern and Post-Modern—you are able to reference the bible in contrast or parallel to.

Now, this devotional is not an attempt to establish my credentials as an English major. However, I’m always fascinated to see the prejudical views and/or belief of an author that is openly revealed in their writings. And, whether an author choses to establish or support a claim, or to simply comment or jest as it relates to the scripture, it proves that no one can overlook its authority.

Though few will ever take the time to re or re-read literatures such as, a Shakespearean novel, The Canterbury Tales, The Souls of Black Folks or The Covenant with Black America—from time-to-time, everyone reads something. Some of you may enjoy a lengthy novel, while others may like to keep it as simple as the new morning newspaper or a daily/weekly devotional consisting of a few short paragraphs.

In lure of all that may be not so good in our present world, we’re very blessed to remain free and to live in a democratic society. Therefore, I present this challenge. In this 1st month of 2012, commit to reading a “GOOD BOOK.” I’m not referring to a romance novel or a New York Time’s best seller, but the “GOOD BOOK”—or as most would say, the Bible. Not sure how to start? For me, as I begin my sincere interest in wanting to learn more of the Word of God, I knew I needed a system. I tried using reading plans, but with many of them, the reading passages for each day were lengthy. Even so, with so much to read, I wasn’t able to absorb the amount that I was reading. This was the revelation to me.

1) Start by choosing whether to begin with Old or New Testament

(Genesis or Matthew)

2) Next, whatever is the numerical day of the month, read the number of scriptures on that day

(e.g.—Jan. 1 (Genesis 1:1); Jan.2 (Genesis 1:2-3); Jan.3 (Genesis 1:3-5)…If you start today, Jan. 9 (Genesis 1:1-9) or (Matthew 1:1-9); Jan. 10 (Genesis 1:10-19) or Matthew 1:10-19) etc)

3) On the next day, continue reading where you left off

That’s it! As you continue reading, you may find it helpful to write or journal what you read. At some point, you’re able to refer back to your writing to see how much God has revealed to you, as well as, how much you’ve grown spiritually. With this revelation, I pay that you are helped with being able to start your journey into a deeper and more personal relationship with Jesus Christ. As you walk out the Word, I pray these words wills serve as a continuous reminder:

Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8 (NIV)

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2012-01-02T13:12:00.002-05:00

PREPARED TO STAND
Ephesians 6:14-18

Happy New Year to everyone. Like me, I'm hope that all are excited to enter into this new season. Certainly, I rejoiced and shared with friends and family at the New Year's Eve Service, but upon entering this new year God spoke a word to me, by His Spirit, that this is "A Year of Preparation." I stopped and took a seat when I heard these words. Quickly my thoughts were, God is declaring a preparation in order to receive and yet, He would say, "Prepared to Stand."

For me, this Word comes with an alarming sound, because only God knows what we will face in the days to come. It is time to take a stand; be firm, be sure, be confident. "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:58 NKJV). So you ask, what does it mean to "take a stand" and what is needful in order that one is able TO STAND?

"Take a stand" means: To be firm, constant, unwavering, sure, consistent, steadfast, undoubting, faithful, persistent, and remaining in your confession and conviction of Jesus Christ and the Gospel-the Word of God. This "stand" is exemplified through the life that is lived; not words alone. In order to "stand," one must be equipped and well prepared. It is life sustaining and soul preserving to put on The Whole Armor of God. One must be fully prepared for the times of testing and appropriately equipped in order to remain protected as they experience spiritual warfare. Satan prepares himself for bullying the believer to step down off their confession. For this purpose, he has fully prepared himself with an army, full ammunition and he every weapon of its kind. We must be alert, prayerful and "Prepare to Stand!"

Being married to a soldier, I've observed the intricate and very detailed preparation that goes into getting ready for training and even war. In 2003, my husband left to serve in Iraqi Operation Freedom. He packed trunks of military regalia and other required equipment. Certainly,I didn't witness all the equipment and readiness materials the soldiers carried along with them. And though I was filled with anxieties as I watched him leave, I realized that this was a moment that soldier's are fully prepared and trained for-mentslly and physically. They are provided the necessary skills and even, the required war gear for battle. This requires much discipline, otherwise, it would be like going on a suicide mission.

For the believer, to prevent spiritual suicide, we too must be disciplined, prepared and fully equipped with the spiritual regalia and war clothes. In Ephesians 6:14-18, the Whole Armor of God is to be clothed and equipped accordingly:
-stand with the BELT OF TRUTH around our waist
-wear the BREASTPLATE OF JUSTICE
-STAND FIRM on your FEET with preparedness, readiness and promptness; ready to share the Gospel of Peace (the Gospel of Jesus Christ)
-carry THE SHIELD OF FAITH in order to fight off the flaming arrows and attacks that comes from the evil one
-wear THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and
-carry THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, which is the Word of God

Finally, being protected with the Armor of God, remain alert and prayerful. Never cease to pray. James 5:16b says, "the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." Stand my brother, my sister: STAND!

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2011-12-26T12:29:00.004-05:00

A PECULIAR PEOPLE: Seperated, Purified and Sanctified

Exodus 13:3-10

In Exodus 13:3-10, God instructed Moses concerning Isreal's deliverance from Pharoah. He first commanded Isreal to offer up their first born to be consecrated unto God (dedicated/offered up). Secondly, He ordered a fast of unleavened bread for seven days. The unleavened bread meant that it was not to be tainted with different spices and seasonings; a simple flour and water batter.

Now this purification process was necessary because, while enslaved in Egypt, Isreal was exposed to various customs and traditions that were not of God. They had become familiar with the cultural anthropolgy of the Egyptians (meaning: the practice of customs with respect to religion, law, arts, music, social structure, magic, etc.) Therefore, just as they were physically delivered from Pharoah, they also needed a "customary" deliverance for their minds and spirit.

Every child of God must declare a seperation, purification and sanctification from the customs of the secular world in which we live. Like the Isrealites, exposure to the customs of the world in which we live has tainted the sincere love the Christian once had for God. Our commitment to Him has been broadsided by, not a natural instinct to survive, but having a "greed to achieve!" Naturally, one adapts to the customs of the place in which they live, but one will experience a spiritual death when they lose consciousness of their lack of obedience to the word of God.

I Peter 2:9 states, "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." The children of God have been ordered to holiness and to live honorably unto God. Instead of living a life that is pure and holy, the believer has become faint in heart been, relinquishing to being yoked up with the world's customs and traditions.

As God is calling for seperation, purification and sanctification, one can reflect upon the mercies and goodness that He has bestowed upon us; collectively and individually. II Corinthians 6:14-16a says, "Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of God..." Simply put, to the one who confesses Jesus Christ as Lord you should not find yourself practicing and following after the customs and traditions of the secular world. One has no choice except to obey the laws in which we are governed by, but the believer is separated by their obedience to the word of God.

The world will know the love of God as we show His love; as we have mercy they will know that He is merciful; as we show forgiveness they will know He is compassionate; as we obey He will show forth His greatness and goodness. Others will not be drawn to Christ when we "equally" participate in their unrighteousness.

The righteous one of God must be distinguishably recognized by their God-like characteristics. If everyone in the crowd looks alike, acts the same way, uses the same language, hang out at the same joint, then, no matter the confession, no one will be drawn by righteousness. "Peculiar people" stand out in the crowd; their uniqueness and defining quality is impossible to cover up. If you're the only white in a crowd of blackness others won't help to notice. Let the God in you shine: be seperate, be pure and remain holy.

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2011-12-19T12:53:00.006-05:00

YOU'RE GIFTED TO BE AN HEIR

Luke 1:26-38

Greetings in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

I’m sure that everyone is excited to share in this Christmas season. Many will decide how they will celebrate, but as I prepare, I’m mindful of the miraculous birth of a Boy named Jesus. I’m sure at some point all have either read or heard the story of the birth of Jesus spoken. Jesus’ earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, were of the lineage of from Abraham to David, and all of which bear relation in some way and served as a prequel of events to the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Though Joseph was Jesus’ legal father in the earth, He bore no real blood relation to Joseph. Yet Mary conceived immaculately by the Holy Ghost, and she was chosen by God to birth into the earth the greatest being to ever live. If we looked at it from a natural perspective, Jesus had no birthright: He was not an heir of His father. The real truth of the matter is Jesus needed no earthly birthright, because that was not His purpose for coming to the earth.

Once Jesus was born, His earthly relation was not as important. Except you’re a bible scholar, few will hardly remember or know many people of which Jesus was related. When asked, most will only remember His earthly mother and father. Though a King and processor of all royalty and wealth, it was not for the purpose of esteem or prestige that Jesus would come to the earth, but to do the work of His Father: redeem mankind back to relationship with the Creator, God.

Jesus did not come into the earth to live the life of a NATURAL being—one who though has needs, finds themselves caught up in the luxuries of life. He simply resided in the earth to fulfill a SUPERNATURAL, kingdom assignment. Unlike Esau, Jesus didn’t sell out his kingdom birthright and authority for a temporal earthly pleasure (see Genesis 25:29-34). No one could barter with Jesus, there was no comprise, and He understood the severity and sacredness of His mission. Jesus says in John 10:17-18, “¹⁷The reason my Father loves me, is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. ¹⁸ No one takes it from me, but I lay it down on my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.” Because of His willful and selfless sacrifice to die for our sins and redemption, we are able to receive the immutable gift of salvation. According to Romans 8:16-17, “¹⁶The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. ¹⁷Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory.”

Children of God are members of a royal priesthood and we are partakers of all the blessings that come in being an heir of the Kingdom. As you celebrate this season of the birth of your Lord Jesus Christ, be mindful that His birth was a declaration of your new life/new-birth; His suffering on the cross was a declaration of your authority in the earth; His death was a declaration of your crucifixion and dying out to sin in your mortal bodies; and His resurrection was a declaration of victory over all things in the earth and the ultimate promise of eternal life.

Merry Christmas and blessings to you all!

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2011-12-12T11:41:00.001-05:00

TAKE INVENTORY, REJOICE AND GIVE THANKS

Hello Men and Women of God,

I pray that your past week was full of joys and even some teachable moments: we all need those. I’m in awe that there are only 19 days remaining in this year: WOW! I remember being in service, in what seems like only a few short months ago, celebrating the entry of this year. So much has transpired: my husband received promotion; we’ve moved to another state; our first son graduated high school and entered college in the fall. And though there were many moments like these of rejoicing and celebrating, there were certainly the times of testing; sorrow, heartache, disappointment—the not-so warm and fuzzy moments. It’s those moments that I pause to evaluate my state-of-mind, my focus, my centeredness, the state of my heart and more importantly, my attitude toward God and myself. From time-to-time, we should pause and do an inventory on our lives and the only way to do that is through the Word of God. Change, though painful at times, is good and necessary so that we are able to continue growing and maturing in our walk with Christ.

In the matter of self-inventorying, it’s okay to allow God to reveal to you the areas and places in your life in which you’ve grown, matured, got delivered and set free. These are moments in which to rejoice and give God glory for what He has done. Looking back at what you once were serves as a reminder for where you don’t want to return. If God delivered and set you free from an addiction; inventory it and rejoice. If God delivered you out of a bad relationship; inventory it and rejoice. If God brought you out of the curse of poverty; inventory it and rejoice. If God healed your body; inventory it and rejoice. If you received the gift of salvation this year; definitely, inventory it and don’t stop rejoicing. For every good gift that comes into your life, rejoice and for everything that comes into your life to challenge your faith, thank God when you pass the test!

Know this Children of God, no matter where you are today; you are much better than you were yesterday. God’s mercies and compassions are new towards us each day (Lamentations 3:22-23). Our walk of faith is a DAILY regeneration (renewal) in the Word and a DAILY renewing of the mind. Salvation is a continuous journey and not a one-time confession. Salvation is matured by

a. planting the Word of God in the heart (Psalm 119:11)

b. watering the Word through obedience; and (Proverbs 7:1-2)

c. exercising the Word in faith—hearing the Word (Romans

10:17).

As you continue in our walk with Christ, know that this is A WORK IN PROGRESS. Christ died is past tense; HE IS RISEN is present/future tense. He is ever and always present to lead, guide and strengthen you in your commitment to live for Him. Never forget: “for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5b).

Keep progressing; keep inventorying; keep rejoicing; and keep “giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20).

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2011-12-05T12:42:00.003-05:00

NOW WHAT?

II Peter 3:17-18

Feeling like you need to be refueled and encouraged? There are times when we feel as though we can’t take another step, but be encouraged. As I sat in preparation for this week’s devotional, God reminded me that in receiving the gift of salvation, it is a process that is to be carried out daily. This week, be mindful of these things as you continue in your commitment to serving God.

1^st Reminder—RENEW YOUR MIND
In I Peter 2:1-3, Peter specifically instructs on nourishing the spirit and about the kind of attitudes we are to avoid in order to continue growing in Christ. He says to “lay aside all wickedness, deceit, hypocrisy, grudges, slander and evil speaking of every kind. Like newborn babies, you should crave the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may be nurtured and grow unto salvation.” For the believer, renew our minds daily to have the mind of Christ and always being mindful of our commitment to the righteousness of Christ. There’s no easy resolve and yes, discipleship comes with the price of self-denial and carrying our own cross, but Jesus paid the ultimate price for our salvation: We owe Him all and more.

2^nd Reminder—LIVE YOUR LIFE AS UNTO THE LORD
John 15:4a, Jesus said, “Abide in me, and I in you…” To live a life unto the Lord Jesus Christ is to obey His instructions; keep His commandments. The way we walkout our lives and live in the will of God is through studying the Word and obeying the Word. Consider this: If you invest in the purchase of a new car, sure you know how to drive it; you may even know how to operate some of the features, but everything to know about the proper operation of the vehicle requires that you either refer to the manual or consult with the manufacturer. It is vital and of extreme importance that we refer too, refers to our operation manual (the Bible) and/or consult with the manufacturer (God). Yes, we all know what it is to do the right thing, but there are specifics to the life of the believer and everything we need for our lives is in the Word of God.

3^rd Reminder—LOVE ONE ANOTHER
Jesus says in John 13:34, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” These instructions are so plain and simple, and yet, it is an act of obedience that even believer’s struggle to exercise. I will be the first to admit, the thought of loving people who are not the most friendly, can seem challenging, but Matthew 5:11-13 says that when we obey the Word and live our lives unto Jesus Christ, we shouldn’t worry when people persecute us, insult and mistreat us, because they also did it to Jesus. He says that if we remain in the Word and obey Him, our reward will be great in heaven. We should pray that God will help others come to the knowledge of His mercy and love for them and yet, we are instructed to continue in sincere love.

So, now what? We must put the Word in our heart daily. Continue to allow the Word of God to transform us and let our mind be renewed daily. Study the Word; meditate on the Word; exercise the Word and make disciples of others. As stated in II Peter 3:17-18, “Therefore, dear friends, since you already know this, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.”

Love and blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2011-11-28T03:49:00.007-05:00

Realign Your Influences

I John 2:15-17

I struggled to hear a word from God this week for the devotional. The more it seemed that God wasn’t hearing my prayer for a word, I became frustrated and even to the point of being somewhat irritated.

After having sat at my kitchen table for hours; praying, nodding, praying more and nodding even more, it was not until 1:17 a.m. that God began to speak to me about why I couldn’t hear him speak. God began addressing me about how I’d spent my week. As I began to recall the things that I'd actually done, I realized that I’d spent a lot of hours watching television (something I rarely do); I’d busied myself with surfing the internet—most times I was simply browsing and looking for nothing specific; and I allowed my attention to be drawn to an arcade game on my iPad. And even though I was still praying and studying the Bible, my attention was divided and my heart became distracted.

In I John 2:15-17, John instructs the Believer to be mindful of the deceptions that are in the world. He admonishes how these things can distract us and cause a falling away from the truth of God’s word. With all the advancements in technology, the gadgets alone are so engaging and can easily cause one to become distracted and deceived. In versus 15-17, John instructs the Believer in three ways on how not get caught up in the world’s influence.

a) Do NOT love the world—these instructions are explicit to meaning, that Christians are not supposed to be followers of the world; doing what the worldly society does. For example, why would a Christian visit the night club to find entertainment and pleasure?

b) Do NOT love the things in the world—John described this as it relates to sensual desires, superficiality and materialism. All are things that cause one to become physically and emotionally desirous.

a. Lust of the flesh—sexual desires; food and drink in excess, etc.

b. Lust of the eyes—greed; desiring more and more “stuff” especially when it’s not needed

c. Pride of life—arrogance; boasting and/or becoming stirred by showing off

c) DO the will of God—God has not forbidden us from having and enjoying the good things in the Earth. Yet, we must obey His words and prioritize our relationship with Him (Matthew 6:33; Psalm 37:4).

However, it is sin that taints and twists what was created with good intent. Sin operates in opposition to the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Like everything we use, communication devices, such as social networks, when in the hands of a person with evil intent, can be harmful and destructive (mind, body, soul, and spirit). Again, when a good product is created with good intent, it the sinful, divisive and evil heart that makes it spoil. Exercise the Word of God that is in you to reach the lost and the hurting; spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

I encourage you, my Brothers and Sisters, to accept everything in life as a temporary gift. Noting compares to the reward that we receive in serving Jesus Christ; let your most precious and greatest asset be the gift of salvation. No matter how much you attain or achieve in this life, it’s worthless if you lose your soul; and always abide in the will of God. To know Him is to live in peace, love, joy, happiness, abundance and eternal life

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2011-11-21T12:09:00.003-05:00

DECLARING YOUR HEALING!

John 9:1-11

What is keeping you from being healed? Are you still accepting the negative things that others have said about you? Are you still living the guilt of your past mistakes and failures?

Being healed of the hurts and wounds that we’ve experienced in our life is important in our daily walk with Christ. It is impossible to pursue a relationship with God, when we hold on to the past. When we consider healing, we think of it as a declaration of wellness from a physical birth defect or abnormality, sickness, disease or illness in the body, but it is as much a spiritual, mental and emotional declaration of deliverance from everything that controls us and keeps us from living a life of freedom and guiltlessness.

All bible readers know the story of Jesus healing the blind man. Nonetheless, there were some key elements during this process. As we began to seek God for healing,

1) KNOW THE FACTS: TRUTHFULLY DEAL WITH THE SOURCE OF THE MATTER

As Jesus encountered the man, he did not address him from a place of sin, but he dealt with him concerning the desire to be healed. Initially, Jesus did not speak a word to the man, but he simply spat on the ground to make clay out of the dirt and then he covered the man’s eyes with the clay. The disciples inquired of Jesus the reason for the man’s blindness, suggesting that his birth defect was a result of either the man’s own sins or his parent’s sins. As Jesus clarified, the truth of the matter, it was neither; however, Jesus would use this as an opportunity to reveal the glory of God in the earth. If you go to the doctor with the complaint of a sore throat, why would you allow him to prescribe marriage counseling? That would be pointless. In some cases, we can tell the doctor what our issues are, in other cases, we have to wait for the diagnoses. Whichever the case may be, we have to be honest with ourselves and become unashamed to confess what we need from God. God knows all about who we are; he's just waiting for us to ask for His help.

2) RECEIVE INSTRUCTIONS: HEAR AND OBEY THE WORD OF GOD

In vs. 7, when Jesus anointed the man’s eyes with the clay, he instructed the man to “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam.” HEARING and OBEYING the instructions of Jesus were very key elements in the man's healing process. Jesus told the man to wash; how specifically, the bible is not that descriptive, but we all know that there is a difference in WIPING vs. WASHING the face. Wiping implies that you may use a handkerchief or cloth to remove debris from the face, versus, washing the face requires that one exerts a more extraneous effort for cleaning. For example, one may use make-up remover, or exfoliate for deep cleansing, or a soapy towel. When we hear the word—whether doing our own meditation of the word, or when attending worship services—like the blind man, we should be quick to receive instructions, and obey. James 1:22 states, "Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."

Finally,

3) BE A WITNESS

Remain steadfast in your conviction for healing. Healing is a process and it will not always come instantly. While we wait on the healing to manifest, we must remain in the word—hearing and obeying. In order to know what to say concerning every situation in our lives that we will face, we must know what the word says. Job 22:28 states, “Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy way." The blind man’s healing was a testament for others to witness. In his witness, he did not have to speak a word, but others were able to see the transformation; the healing. When God heals and delivers, we won't have to say a word; others will see the change. Your witness is as affective through living the example of Word of God. Ephesians 5:1-2 states, “Therefore be imitators of God dear children. And WALK, in live, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.”

Now is the time for your healing! It is time that we live victoriously in the blessings of God and not look back. Yesterday is past and we can declare today that we will

1) WALK IN THE TRUTH

2) RECEIVE INSTRUCTIONS AND OBEY THE WORD OF GOD

3) BE A WITNESS

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2011-11-14T12:33:00.006-05:00

STAY FOCUSED!

Matthew 14:29-31

Be careful to pay attention to the warning signs of “GETTING OFF TRACK.” Satan can take advantage of something that starts with genuine intent and poison it with distractions that cause us to lose focus. When we lose focus; we abandon the real purpose of the mission.

At 30 years old, I got my first tattoo. I knew this was not the right thing to do, but emotionally, I was in a very unstable place. Having grown up in the church, and having the Word of God planted in my heart, my conscious was seared. Nonetheless, I committed to the tattoo under the conviction that it needed to be something with a religious implication—my way of smoothing over my own guilty conscious.

When Peter walked out of the boat onto the sea towards Jesus, he became afraid. He took his focus off Jesus and began to sink. When we are in error of the Word of God, one sin leads to another. My 1^st tattoo led to another and another… I lost my focus. Many experiences from 2005-2010 transpired, before coming back to a place where I was completely reconciled back into a relationship with Christ. My tattoos are an outward reflection of the master that once controlled me. The reason behind getting the tattoos reflects where I was at that moment and time in my life; however, the story has been re-written and I've been given a clean start.

Tattoo #1-the need for strength
Tattoo #2-the need for salvation
Tattoo #3-the need for deliverance
Tattoo #4-the need for forgiveness
Tattoo #5-the need for reconciliation
Tattoo #6-the need for redemption

I am no longer ashamed and my character has been redefined (II Corinthians 5:17). When others see the ink on my skin they may label it as radical, extreme and somewhat rebellious but those are great words to describe where I now am in my relationship with Christ.

RADICAL: because I'm not ashamed to proclaim the gospel
EXTREME (PASSIONATE): because no matter how weird or strange the instructions may seem, that come to me, from God I'm willing to obey: and
REBELLIOUS: Yes! I REFUSE to go back to living under the control of satan.

Know that your walk with Christ is a journey; seek more of Him. No matter the scars or the graffiti that you're covered with, when you become inwardly converted, it will outwardly reflect the beautiful change that is within you. Be encouraged not to lose your zeal. Move past your past and see your destiny-working towards eternal life!

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2011-11-07T09:12:00.005-05:00

DON'T QUIT

Hebrews 12:1-2

My youngest son and the football team he plays for played their playoff game for the finals on Saturday. In the first quarter of the game, the other team retained complete possession of the ball, only allowing my son and his teammates to gain possession once during the entire first quarter. By the end of the 2^nd quarter, the opposing team had scored three touchdowns, leaving him and his teammates with zero points.

Coming back from half-time, the team was so determined. Before walking onto the field, they chanted loud; encouraging each other to play hard. The same fire they started the game with, they exerted the same and more energy throughout the final two quarters of the game. As the game continued, it was amazing to watch the team continue to work back from a three touchdown deficit to ultimately winning the game by two points.

On the way home from the game, my son said, “Mom, when I’m running for a touchdown, I don’t ever hear the crowd cheering until I’m almost in the end zone!” At that very moment, God spoke a word to me and I took advantage of the opportunity to teach him a lesson.

In our walk with Christ, especially as a new convert, we start out with much anticipation, excitement about our newly found faith in Christ—ready to walk the straight and narrow path, while convicted to go and win souls for the Kingdom of God. However, so often, as we begin to look around, many of those same converts and even some of the consistent “church-goers” have fallen off.

Like my son, for that football player, the ultimate goal is to score enough points in order to win the game. Scoring requires that the athlete continues running until he reaches the goal. If the football player stops running, even to touch the line, failing to cross over into the end zone, he is not awarded the points. Many touchdowns have been called back after the review, because the player either stepped outside or on the line before scoring; or, the player caught the ball in the end zone, but his feet touched the line, therefore rendering the points no good.

The importance of it all is that we can’t give up! We must continue running until the points are scored—reach the final goal. Hebrews 12:1-2 states, “¹Therefore, we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ²looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

There is a crowd cheering us on into the end zone, urging us all to the finished line, but we must remain focused. As I ministered the word to my son, expressing to him that it is not always so important to hear the crowd, but to remain focused on the goal. It doesn’t matter that you started a task, but it’s in your faithful finish that others are ministered to and God is honored.

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

STARTING YOUR WEEK

2011-11-05T00:00:00.003-04:00

Hello Followers,

Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ (I Corinthians 1:3). I want to offer a huge THANKS to each of you as you have taken part in this blog. I want to express my deepest and sincerest gratitude for being able to share God's Word and I pray that you are being enlightened and encouraged by what God is speaking. I hope that you will continue following the page, as I will begin posting the devotional's every Monday for a great "START YOUR WEEK."

Again, thank you for your support and may the Word of God take you from faith to faith (Romans 1:17); and from glory to glory.

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

Winning

2011-11-04T06:46:00.001-04:00

Winning

II Corinthians 2:14

It's the championship game. The team is in the bottom of the 4th quarter. The home team has possession of the ball and can tie the game with a field goal. The head coach must decide to either go all the way to score the full seven points or to simply play it safe and kick the field goal? Whatever the outcome of the game, the decision is one to live with. Either decision changes the dynamics of the game.

At some point in life, we’ve been a player on the devil's team. He controlled the pieces of the game by calling the shots in every aspect of our lives. As I observe the body language of a team who is fighting to win a game, I’ve noticed one of two things will happen: the team will either display a lack of confidence by not committing fully to win the game—often seen in the body language and/or inability to perform the plays, or the team will cohesively work together, put forth all their energy and determination in order to be victorious.

This analogy is very parallel to the Christian journey. Once we confess Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, the dynamics completely change. Where we once lacked confidence, the word of God equips us to effectively handle ourselves daily. Obedience in the word enables us to boldly and courageously commit to finishing the game.

Often times, if not most times, the devil knows what buttons to push. He observes our response to particular matters or situations and even how we respond and react to certain people. He is mindful to study how we respond non-verbally; therefore, he strategically plans what, how and who to send to try and throw us off track.

So, for those who have already given their lives to Christ, you’re on the winning team; your Coach (Jesus Christ) never changes the plays of the game, but He’s undefeated. For those who are seeking Christ and are making up your mind to surrender your life to Jesus; the dynamics of the game are about to change. You’ve declared to Satan that he’s in the final seconds of the control that he’s had over your life. You’ve determined within yourself that you’re tired of losing and on this day, you claim victory and you will begin to walk in your deliverance. You’ve determined to go all the way and there’s no turning back. Even though obstacles may come, keep pushing; keep pressing---don’t give up.

Know this, on the journey of salvation you will have to fight to win. The coach and players of the other team (Satan and his angels) are not going to easily allow you to win the game. On this journey with Christ, it’s natural to feel a little intimidated, nervous or even afraid at times, but you have been declared a winner: VICTORIOUS (I Corinthians 15:57).

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

Repeat after me:

1) You is *FREE!

(John 8:36)

2) You is an *OVERCOMER!

(I John 5:4)

3) You is A *WINNER!—

(Romans 8:37)

(a quote paraphrased from New York Times Best Selling book, “The Help”—Kathryn Stockett)

Being Mindful to Bring Him Glory

2011-11-03T01:42:00.003-04:00

John 8:1-11 is the story of the familiar story of the woman who committed adultery. The story is such that, she was caught in the act of adultery and brought to the Scribes and Pharisees so that she could be judged. The religious leaders then brought the woman to Jesus saying, “This woman has been caught in the act of adultery and according to the Laws of Moses, she is to be put to death. What do you say we should do?” As oppose to making an even bigger scene, Jesus did not comment; he simply wrote on the ground as if to not hear them. Nonetheless, when the religious leaders insisted that Jesus respond, he stood up and said to them “Whichever of you can truthfully say that they have never sinned, it is you who have to right to kill her.” Since none could say that they were guiltless, the all walked away.

Now, the accusations brought against the woman wasn’t solely for the purpose of exposing her sins, but the scribes and Pharisees wanted to use this as an opportunity to discredit and disqualify Jesus and who He claimed to be. This is a very teachable moment.

Take a moment to think of a time when accusations were brought against you. Maybe it was something as small as failing to pick up a piece of paper you dropped on the floor, or something as damaging as lying; whatever the case, the accusations that were brought against you, affected someone else. If you chose not to pick up the paper you dropped on the floor, someone else would feel the responsibility to pick it up. As for lying, that has the potential to affect more than one party, if serious enough. The point of the matter is, a person’s choice to do right or wrong has some type of impact on someone else.

When the woman was accused of adultery, the religious leaders immediately looked at Jesus. They wanted to use it as an opportunity to expose Jesus for who they thought he really was, or should I say, who he wasn’t. They wanted to defame the character and credibility of Jesus, by giving him the authority to have the final say in the woman’s fate. Needless to say, Jesus would certainly have the final say in the woman’s fate…a situation that they tried to make for bad; Jesus used it for glory.

The final point is, when we exercise our right and freedom to choose, we should be mindful of how adversely that decision will impact others. Above all, we should always consider in our words and actions how is Jesus being presented. As a child of God, we should seek to observe and obey His laws. A child who sincerely loves their parent will not want to do anything to defame their reputation. Nonetheless, a good father, even when His child goes astray, he lovingly forgives them and embraces them with open arms. Know that God loves you where you are and His grace and mercy is towards us all to forgive us of our sins.

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

Keep On; Keeping On

2011-11-02T03:19:00.006-04:00

As I began to study Philippians 3:12-16, I asked God to give me a deeper and even more compelling explanation for what Paul was stating. As I studied, the above decree this is the explanation and revelation that I received as to Paul’s expression of his relationship to Jesus Christ and the Word of God.

I do not consider myself to fully understand this great gospel, but I can assure you of this, whatever once hindered me, both past and present, that has kept me from receiving this great gospel, I have put to rest. Everything concerning who I once was has changed, because I’m forgiven and washed in the blood of Jesus Christ; therefore, I pursue this great gospel.

I am determined and chasing after the goal that I have before me and that is to have a deeper understanding of the Gospel, to obey it and to live it out. I recognize that my obedience to God and to be able to live as an effective witness of the Word, I must consider myself nothing and become dead to my own, selfish desires.

I recognize that my obedience to Christ through the Word of God, is maturing me and my end results are measurable with a great reward. In order to reap my reward, I must remain Christ-like minded, which is the Word. However, when I need clarity and a deeper understanding for what to do, I can look to Jesus Christ; the infallible Word of God that once lived on earth in the flesh. I’m grateful for what I’ve learned and what I now understand concerning this great gospel. Since I've encountered Jesus Christ, I passion and purpose to know more about Him. I study the Word; I'm not ashamed to teach the word to others; I live my life as an example of Christ daily; and if there’s anything that I consider more important than this; God help me.—The Apostle Paul (Philippians 3:12-16-NKJV)

I’ve often read and quoted this passage of scripture, but I’ve never taken a real moment to study the amazing declaration that Paul was making. In Philippians 3:12-16, he was teaching and instructing the Saints at Philippi, and precisely states that he’s renounced everything in order to walk in the excellence of Christ Jesus. Most bible readers remember the Apostle Paul for initially being the greatest prosecutor of the church, and it was his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus that changed his life. He would then become the most prolific writer of the New Testament.

One writer labeled the Apostle Paul’s conversion as “The Seven Step Decent into Self-Emptying.”

The Seven Step Decent into Self-Emptying

1) Gain Christ

2) Be found in Him

3) Have no righteousness of your own

4) Know him

5) Know His resurrection power

6) Fellowship in His suffering

7) Conform to His death

Each day of our lives, we should remember that a life surrendered to Christ is a daily commitment to serve and obey Him. If we ENDURE with Him, we will REIGN with Him (2 Timothy 2:12-NKJV).

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

Reference:

The New King James Version: The Woman’s Study Bible, Second Edition

(1995, 2006). Thomas Nelson, Inc.

Following Instructions

2011-11-01T01:24:00.004-04:00

Please allow me a moment to reflect:

On February 14, 2003, my husband was called to deploy for Kuwait. He served for 18 months on a deployed status. The following year we were coming up on celebrating our 10^th year Wedding Anniversary. On one occasion, while in conversation with him, he stated that he wanted to renew our wedding vows. He talked about going all-out with a fully orchestrated ceremony and bridal party. Being that he was only months from coming home, I didn’t think I would have enough time to prepare, but I wanted to fulfill his wishes to make it happen; approaching our first major milestone anniversary was worth that type of celebration.

The preparation time and effort that was put into making this day an occasion to cherish, was altogether indescribable. I can remember the details; from collecting color swatches for deciding on bridesmaid dresses, to the insurmountable number of phone calls made to wedding party associates, caterers, photographers, clothiers, bakers, decorators, musicians, the bridal salon, etc.; while still having the responsibilities of home, work and church. Needless to say, I had some people who helped out, but it was my assignment to complete.

Preparing for this wedding had become an overwhelmingly demanding, full-time assignment. After having mailed invitations to our prospective guests, and securing locations and vendors, the responsibility lied upon me to make sure that everything was finalized. If I had failed to prepare well, many people would have been affected both financially and personally: there would be no return on any of the deposits that were made and every person that had personally invested in participating would have suffered a loss. The responsibility solely relied upon me to be sure that the wedding was prepared.

Matthew 26:19 states, “So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them; and they prepared the Passover.” As Jesus began to prepare himself for the death of the cross, it was important that the disciples were obedient to follow His directions. In Matthew, Chapter 26, Jesus knew the time had come for Him to fulfill His purpose in the earth. The disciples were given these instructions:

1) Eat of My body: completely surrender in order to be able to share in the suffering He experience on the cross

2) Drink of My blood: receive of it for the cleansing and washing of sin

3) Watch: remain alert so not to become caught up into deception; even to the point of saving your live

4) Pray: it is how to stay connected to the Father

We can’t faithfully and consistently follow God if we’re not prepared. Being well prepared can directly and indirectly have a great impact on the mission. For example, when you’re going for a long walk or hike, you need water. Being unprepared for that type of activity could result in an extremely dangerous case of dehydration. As with the disciples, if they weren't willing to follow Jesus' instructions for carrying out the mission of preparing the world to meet Him again one day, the blood would rest upon their hands. Jesus instructed the disciples to eat of His body, drink of His blood, to watch and pray. These acts of obedience were imperative in being well-equipped to follow Him and ultimately carrying on the mission of the Kingdom.

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

Doing Your Share of the Work

2011-10-31T23:51:00.001-04:00

In Matthew 25:14-27, Jesus gives the Parable of the Talents. Verse 14 states, “[for the Kingdom of heaven is like] a man going off on an extended trip. He called his servants together and delegated responsibilities” (The Message Bible). To the 1^st servant was given five talents, the 2^nd servant two talents and the 3^rd servant one talent. Each servant was assigned a task to the degree of their level of capabilities. Each servant had this one responsibility: to work. The 1^st and 2^nd servants added more to what the master had given them, and for the 3^rd servant, he excused his inability to improve upon what he was given to being afraid.

The 1^st servant doubled his talents. I find it interesting when people use the term, “I wish I could…” How many times have I stated it, and not really considering the depth of my inward desires? On one hand, it’s nice to be admirable of others gifts and talents. On another note, we should be careful to not covertly desire what someone else has been gifted with to the point of no return. Like the good master, God has distributed to us all according to the degree of what he knows we’re able to handle. If I’m challenged with handling the one gift and/or talent He’s placed upon me, certainly, he’s wise enough to not burden me with being wasteful of five talents.

In the parable, Jesus says that when servant number three presented to the good master the same talent that he’d been given, he described him as “wicked and lazy”—in other words, worthless. The one talent this servant was given, he kept it hidden, and therefore, it was useless and unprofitable. What employer awards the employee who has simply performed to standard? In most cases, the employee who goes above and beyond the expectation receives the bonus and/or promotion.

Don’t waste your talents. Whatever God has deposited into your life—gift, ministry, finances, businesses, creative ideas, etc.—work faithfully to increase upon it, so that when the “Good Master” returns, he will declare your life to be good and faithful. Everything about who we were created to be is about bringing glory and honor to God, the Father.

At times, life can seem to be a rat-race to nowhere. There are those who have families, work full-time jobs, and/or attend school, while faithfully serving in the church and the community. The “Good Master” sees you and He has a reward prepared just for you! Jesus testified in Revelation 22:12 saying, “[B]ehold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give every one according to his work” (NKJV). Keep working!

Love & blessings,

Kinwana

"The Invitation"

2011-10-30T01:08:00.000-04:00

In Matthew 22:1-14, Jesus illustrated the parable of the Wedding Feast. He spoke about a king who was preparing a feast for his son's wedding. In order to completely finalize the occasion, the King sent forth his servants to gather the invited guests. Interestingly, the guest refused the King's invitation and carried on with their own affairs. In such an outrage over the invitation, some of the King's messengers were killed by the guests.

When the King received word of what happened, he took revenge and destroyed the guests and everything they owned. As the King continued preparing for the wedding feast, he needed the most important element: guests. What is a feast with no one to eat? The King sent his servants back out to gather new guests; this time instructing them to invite whoever would come.

There is a great and final Wedding Supper of the Lamb that will take place. Jesus Christ has already guaranteed our entrance into this great celebration, by the shedding of His blood. For everyone who receives "The Invitation," they can rejoice. This invitation has been issued by God through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ has come to the earth; died for the sins of the world and purchased our redemption through His resurrection. Just as the invited guests in the parable, many have refused "The Invitation" (salvation). However, it is not His desire that anyone misses out on this great celebration.

Your "Invitation" has already been purchased and all you have to do is receive. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you’ve been or what you’ve done; God loves you right where you are. Jesus stated in John 6:35 & 37, "I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me will never be hungry. He who puts his trust in Me will never be thirsty. I said to you that you have seen Me and yet you do not put your trust in Me. All whom My Father has given to Me will come to Me. I will never turn away anyone who comes to Me." He’s inviting you to COME!

This is “THE WEDDING INVITATION.”