Hangover II

I enjoyed  the movie "HangoverII'' but is was not as funny as the first one.

Focus, Focus, Focus

Do you know people who aren't focused on anything? In other words, when they need to concentrate on one thing, they drift off and begin procrastinating. Whenever you deal with someone who isn't focused, you're dealing with someone who isn't capable of being fully attentive. Can we be honest and say that we get annoyed at people who don't show us attention? Simply put - if you're investing your time and energy into something, you want someone to feel your cause and grab a hold of your passion. Dealing with focused people will give you the results you desire. On the other hand, dealing with those who aren't focused will leave you frustrated and aggravated. Why? Because you'll be doing all the work yourself and getting upset in the process. While many of us would get upset at those who don't have any focus, the question is, are we focused? 

In this life, I've discovered that many people have what is called 'limited focus.' What I mean by this is that they'll remain focused on something for a while until it becomes too difficult, too compromising, or too much of a sacrifice. I want you to get into your spirit a person must be focused on what God has called them to do, if they ever expect to receive what He has for them. Crying tired is not an excuse. The words 'can't' and 'impossible' should be removed from your vocabulary. Staying focused is a mentality you must adopt for yourself. People can help you focus on things but you have to do it yourself. God provides, but He expects you to do your part.

In this spiritual journey, you need to know that God expects you to be focused on what He's called you to do. If you don't mind, I'd like to offer you a few suggestions on staying focused. First, pray and ask God for guidance. Never start anything without seeking Divine help. Second, write down what you want to accomplish and the steps you're going to take to accomplish them. Third, post your goals where you can see them. Buy a pack of post-its and write your goals on them. After you do that, stick them on your refrigerator, in the bathroom, on the doors in your home, and on books, just to name a few. Here's a hint - you need to see your goals everyday in order to keep yourself focused on what you're called to do. And fourth, keep a journal of what you're doing well and what needs to be improved on. Through journal writing, you're able to see your progress. Try it for 21 days and see what happens. A focused mind gets results. An unfocused mind gets confusion.

The Right Man

I received this from one of my close friends and thought this was worth sharing.


The Right Man

Author: Unknown

First we must allow our Heavenly Father to do the picking. And second, the decision for a mate must be made on a spiritual and intellectual basis before it's made on an emotional one.




'What about love? Shouldn't that be the third? you ask. No, and I'll tell you why. 'The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? (Jeremiah 17:9).




The heart is willful and is driven by its own agenda. It does not consider things rationally and intelligently it just loves to love! Therefore you have to point it in the right direction: 'Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the well spring of life' (Proverbs 4:23)!

Whenever you meet a man, you need to get clearance from God, check out his attributes, and then allow your heart to engage.



Dating exists not for mating; it exists for collecting data. I believe that the biblical design would be friendship, courtship and then marriage.



Friendship is two people walking together in agreement and accountability, learning and growing together.



Courtship follows the mutual agreement to commit to one another exclusively - it is the decisive turning toward the agreed-upon goal of the marriage altar. It is a period of laying a foundation and preparing your life to gether after marriage.



But dating? Well, if you do date, use the time wisely to gather these facts.





1. Check out the fabric. Is the person mate material? Does this man have an intimate relationship with the Father through Jesus Christ? Does he care what God thinks about his behavior? Is he accountable to God as well as another co-laborer in the faith? Accountability is an important factor. It is imperative to maintaining a committed relationship. Is your potential spouse a member of the same family - the family of God?



You need to have common interests and values and agree on the essentials of living day to day. You have a similar spiritual walk. You eat the same spiritual diet. You enjoy a lot of similar things. You have like interests, like goals in life, like opinions on basic life issues.



You have had like experiences in your background. Though there is some truth to the idiom that opposites attract, like-minded folks fare better together.



Furthermore, does he want to get married? If you want to be married and your dreamboat isn't interested, don't waste your time.



Remember, women fall in love and get married. Men decide to get married and then look for a wife. Note the difference in order. So if a guy says he's not looking for anything serious, take his words seriously. If he's not going in your direction, get off the bus and wait for the right one.



2. Does this man want you? Is he pursuing you? The man who is right for you will pursue you, and God's hand in the relationship will be clear. No guessing, no fleeces, no dead ends.



Scripture says: 'He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord' (Proverbs 18:22).



Note -who finds whom? THE MAN FINDS THE WIFE. From the beginning of time, God has transported men and women across the world in order to put them together.



At the RIGHT TIME, He will bring that man on the scene and he will find you. In God's perfect design, the man is the one who recognizes his mate. Adam has no problem recognizing that Eve was his missing rib. You do not need to strategically place yourself anywhere. You don't have to help a guy out because he's shy!



Men will do whatever they have to do to get what they truly want. The man in your life should recognize you as the pearl of great price in his life and be willing to do whatever he must in order to gain your hand. If he is passive about gaining your affections, take it as a sign that he is not interested.



Many a woman's mother has suggested that it is a good idea to marry a man who loves you more than you love him. As cold as that sounds, it actually might be scriptural if you stop to think about it: 'We love him because he first loved us' (1 John 4:19). Until then, take the ultimate chill pill. You don't need a bunch of men in your life to make you feel all right about yourself.



You need only one man - your man, the one God has selected to select you. And trust me, the right man at the wrong time can be just as awful as the wrong man at any time. So trust God's timing in this. He is the ultimate matchmaker. Relax, sit pretty and allow yourself to be found.. Again - WAIT until the man voices his intentions. He should take the lead in establishing the relationship. You may have an inkling that he is the one, but God will use the man to set the tone of t he relationship. Allow him the opportunity to woo you - this is your first act of submission. Jesus set the standard for all men to follow. They should love us first. And they should lead the relationship .



3. The man in your life should not desire to move into your house, only into your heart . A man who prepares for your future has made his intentions clear. A man who is husband material has the means to take care of a wife. He is a responsible human being who understands he needs to have something to offer. In short, a man should have the means to be a suitable lover for you .



4. Check out his buddies. Everyone knows birds of the same feather flock together, yet most women fail to see the connection between a man and his friends. A man's pals tell you a lot about the person that you haven't seen yet. They reveal things about the guy's character that might be hidden when he is on good behavior. Everyone knows how to put his best foot forward. Don't stay focused on the foot, check out the rest of the body!



5. Check out his relationship with his mother. How does he treat her? This is your preview of how he will treat you. There are lots of men who, because of a negative relationship with their mothers, really don't like women, yet say they do. Unresolved issues between mother and son continue between husband and wife.



6. Remember that a man's family reveals the cloth from which he's cut. Take note and decide whether you want your future with the man in your life to look like his present family situation.



7. Check out the patterns of his life. Do you see repeated cycles of drama in his personal kingdom? Broken relationships? Problems in making commitments --including the job market? Mood swings? Is a problem always someone else's fault? Does he embrace responsibility or shirk it? Does he keep his promises? Is he a man of good reputation? Remember all garments look wonderful hanging in the store, but with wear, some begin to unravel. Give yourself time and space to check out the man in your life. Time will always reveal whether or not he is made of the right stuff.



8. Does this man have a vision for his life? Is he running with that vision? Remember, God decided Adam needed help once Adam got busy DOING his assignment. As we saw Adam, a man doesn't need help until he is busy doing what he was created and called to do. I s the man in your life guided by sense of destiny and purpose, or does he just allow life to happen around him? A man who is not certain of his mission can be a most miserable person - and you'll be miserable too if you know where YOU want to go in life.



A man who has vision is not intimidated by a woman whose mission statement is clear. He will be your best ally, cheerleader and assistant because he wants you both to make it! A man who cannot be supportive of your achievements because he is floundering in a sea of uncertainty over his own life is not a healthy partner to have and to hold forever.



Creating dependencies or feelings of obligation is not the way to get the best out of your man. Somewhere along the way, he will resent you and flee from the smothering burden of obligation he associates you with. You want a man who is firmly anchored in his identity in Christ. Remember, we are looking for a man who will be priest and leader of his home. His first instinct should be to want to cover you, redeem you, and provide for you. Your job is to decide if this is the man God has ordained for you to complement.



9. Complimentary.

Do your talents and gifts complement his? Does his gifts, compliment yours? What about your temperaments? Do you see the two of you as an effective team capable of bringing blessing to the lives of those around you? Do your futures mesh? Can you coordinate your gifts in an attractive and effective way?



This is why knowing your purpose is so important. Make sure your hearts beat for mutual causes. When I go shopping I always consider the fabric, the fit and what I already have in my closet. Will my next purchase be a complimentary addition to what I already have? If I find that I am going to have to buy shoes and matching accessories to go with a new outfit, I leave it right on the rack. It is too expensive a proposition. If the man you meet makes you feel that you need to completely reinvent yourself, something is wr ong.



This is where I ask you to consider the relationship in terms of cost. Is this relationship expensive spiritually, emotional or physically? Does your longing for a mate make you willing to forfeit who you are in the process? Or does he see you as the gift that you are? The man in your life should consider you a rare find, a priceless jewel-because of you he is getting ready to get blessed big-time! Any relationship that causes you to feel unworthy, unlovely, unacceptable, undesirable or that you have to work for love, is too expensive!



God has called the man to cover, protect and provide not only materially for a woman, but emotionally and spiritually as well. You should be richer in mind, body and spirit for your union with the man of your dreams. The man in your life should make rich deposits into your heart and spirit, not withdrawals



10. Does he have a healthy love and acceptance of himself? Make sure the man in your life has taken time to heal from past relationships and has made peace with himself. How he cares for himself is how he will care for you. A man's relationship with God is crucial here. His love for himself will only be as strong as his love for God. This is not something that you can impart. You cannot be his savior or teacher. That is out of spiritual order. I n his rightful place as your personal priest, he should be leading you to a richer relationship with Christ.



If he is causing you to compromise your faith and destabilize your walk, if he is leading you into sexual sin or causing you to be distracted from your commitment to God, the relationship is too expensive. Offending the Lover of your soul, who promises you eternal love, is too high a fare to pay for a ride that has a limited run. If you and your man can't soar in the Spirit, when the force of your love for another is tested by the pull or gravity of the world, your union will not be able to survive.



So you decide. How much is your life worth? How much is your love worth? You will be able to accept on ly what you believe you deserve. God himself calculated the worth of your love and decided it was worth His life. He now pledges you His love for eternity. Yes, Jesus sets the example for all others to follow when He paid a ransom for His bride. Should you expect less f rom a mortal man? Throughout the Biblical age, men were willing to pay the cost for what they truly desired. The truth of the matter is everyone knows that anything worth having, costs and no one gets a ride in this life for free.



Our prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father God,

I confess that I have not always been as careful as I should've been with my heart. From time to time, my desire for love has caused me to leave my heart in the wrong hands. I now commit my heart into Your hands for safekeeping. Please help me to stop being so impulsive with what you deem so precious. As I learn to celebrate Your love for me, let me learn from Your example what a bridegroom should really be like. Help me to never settle for less than what you desire for me. As I embrace You as the Lover of my soul, keep my affections in the haven of Your own heart. As I rest in Your love, make me more discriminating of those who approach me.



I ask that You take over this area of my life. Keep me from those You know would hurt my heart. I invite You to set a hedge around me and keep me from all who would draw me into unfruitful relationships until the day you present me to the mate that You have selected for me. Grant me the discernment to recognize him as he recognizes me. Cleanse me from the temptation to typecast the men I meet according to what I see. Help me to trust in Your knowledge and lean not on my own understanding. I know that You know what is best for me; therefore I yield to Your choice.

In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Relationship Prosperity

Relationships based on the physical and neglecting the spiritual will have difficulty. Let me say it this way. Unless God is the foundation from which any relationship is built, there will be problems, issues, and challenges. Don't get me wrong, having your relationship with God as your foundation doesn't absolve you from having stuff happening to you, however, your spiritual foundation helps to provide you with a blueprint to get back on track. Can you do me a favor and think about any relationship you've been in that didn't have God as the center? Did it last? Did you find yourself always miserable, upset, frustrated, and aggravated? As my mentor dropped in my spirit many years ago, 'if your significant other doesn't put God first in their life, you're bound to have trouble.' Here's the Sinclair remix. Without God leading and guiding you and your relationship, you'll  make foolish choices.

In this life, I've discovered through many counseling sessions that it's difficult moving forward in any relationship when two people aren't speaking the same spiritual language. Simply put - if you're speaking about seeking the will of God and your significant other is speaking about 'me, myself, and I,' you're not progressing but digressing. I know this message is making someone feel uncomfortable but it's alright because God is able to resolve and rectify anything. All you have to do is trust and believe in the power of God. In addition to this, learn the lessons provided and you will keep yourself from being messed up from the floor up.

In this spiritual journey, I want to share with you how you can make any relationship prosperous. The first thing you need to do is make sure you know who you are and whose you are. In a real sense, if you don't know you're a child of the living God, then you will allow others to define you and confine you. Make up your mind to serve God with your whole mind, body, and soul and your standard will be set. The second thing you need to do in making any relationship prosperous is ask your significant other where they see themselves in five to ten years. Get past the standard answers and look for the answer - doing the will of God and seeking His divine will. I know this may sound unconventional, but you want to understand where the mindset of your significant other is.

In writing to the people of Corinth, the apostle Paul penned the words, "Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?" Please don't miss this last lesson. You can't compromise your faith in order to please someone. If you begin to compromise your faith, then you'll compromise other things. If you're married, I urge you to work together in serving God, making Him your top priority. If you're single, don't rush getting married - just do the will of God and He'll take care of your needs according to His riches in glory. As I close this message, keep God first in everything. Don't get so sidetracked with looks, personality, and all that's happening around you that you forget to make God your center.

Rev. Grey

Control Your Thoughts

Do you have a habit of thinking crazy thoughts? In other words, some of the thoughts that run through your mind may leave you freaked out, annoyed, paranoid, or down right confused as to how something so strange can occupy your mind. I don't care who you are, all of us have something going through our mind at one time or another that shouldn't be there. Let me ask you this question. Were you thinking something crazy this morning, last night, or last week? Without learning to control your thoughts, you'll end up messed up from the floor up. One of my minister friends told me, 'unless you learn to control you, you'll act on stuff that has no bearing on your growth.' Simply put - don't allow the enemy to gain control over your mind because once he controls your mind, he'll control your actions.

In this life, I've discovered that everything around us must be monitored. From the television, radio, and even the internet, we must be cautious. What you may think is insignificant will eventually turn into something major. The enemy is trying to plant seeds of insecurity, doubt, confusion, rebellion, and anger in your spirit. That's right; with so much hell going on around us, it's easy to get caught up and lose control. While you need to know what's happening around you, you must be prayed up, anointed, and have a solid foundation on which to stand. Wherever you go and whatever you do, stay connected to God Almighty.

In this spiritual journey, I would like to offer you a few ways in which you can control your thoughts. The first thing you need to do is remove negative and crippling words from your vocabulary. Once you remove condemning words and replace them with uplifting and empowering words, you'll find yourself projecting a better image from the inside out and from the outside in. The second thing you need to do in controlling your thoughts is to socialize with people who are positive. Always remember, the more you associate with negative people, the more likely they'll influence your thinking. Either they'll feed off your energy or you'll feed off theirs. I want you to get into your spirit that God doesn't want you to think thoughts that are harmful to your growth. In a real sense, God's Spirit in you provides you with the strength to overcome anything that's trying to bring you down. Just ask God to help you and have faith that all things are possible.

The writer of Proverbs tells us to "Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established." Please don't miss this last lesson. Stay busy in doing the will of God for your life and you won't have time to entertain crazy, ridiculous, and mischievous thoughts. The mind is a powerful weapon when it's used for good. Here's an assignment for you. Everyday for at least 15 times a day, tell yourself that it's going to be a positive day. No matter what's happening on the outside, continue to speak words of encouragement. That's my word for you. If you want to get ahead in life, change your thought pattern which will in turn change your behavior which will lead to a better attitude. You have the power to do it. Start doing it today.

Controlling Your Emotions

Life would be so much easier for people, if they learn not to panic. Let me say that again. Whenever people start tripping over people and things, they lose all rationale and begin acting out of character. Becoming too emotional will cause you to make the wrong decision. When emotions take over logic, you'll wonder why you're in the mess you're in and lose sight of what makes sense. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with being emotional about things, but the key to being emotional is to keep it under control and to never allow your emotions make you leave your faith at the door. Let me ask you this - do you know people who lose control over their emotions? In other words, before they start reasoning, they start tripping.

In this life, I've discovered that you have to remain in control so that you won't lose control. Losing control isn't cool and when you lose control or should I say, start tripping, you've added unnecessary stress to your life. As one who deals with people everyday, I can't tell you how important it is for you not to trip out, freak out, and lose your mind. If you stop to think about it for a moment - what's the advantage and/or disadvantage of tripping? Well, in case you don't know, the more you trip, the less likely you're able to hear from God. Understand that the enemy wants you in a state of tripping because tripping takes your eyes off God and places it on the person and/or situation. Remember, you're better than anything that's trying to interfere with your relationship with God.

In this spiritual journey, you need to know that God has everything under control. That's right; when you feel out of control, always know that God's in control of the situation. One of the reasons why people lose control is because they're trying to do things by themselves instead of having their steps ordered by God. Here's a hint - when your steps are ordered by God, you'll rise above the natural and focus on the spiritual. Yes, it may seem hard in the beginning, but when you make up your mind to not have people and things cause you to trip out, then you're taking the first step to staying in control. I want you to get into your spirit, God can take away your tripping behavior and teach you how to be patient, calm, and at ease with people and things.

The writer of Proverbs tells us, "Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls." Please don't miss this. Failure to control your emotions will cause you to be messed up from the floor up. In a real sense, when you start tripping on people and things, you're inviting chaos, disaster, and foolishness into your life. As any parent would say, 'you don't want that to happen.' Your life is too important to give people and things control. Simply put - when people and things make you trip, they play on you and will do you great harm. As the youth say, 'don't fall for the okie doke.' That's my word for you. Tripping ain't cool nor is allowing people and things affect who you are, whose you, and where you're going. Stay connected with God and allow Him to direct your path.  

Rev. Grey

Looking at Life

There comes a time in life when you just need to sit back, chill, focus on all the good and positive things in your life & put all the bad and negative behind you.

Never Give Up

I know hope ends when you stop believing, friendship ends when you stop sharing, love ends when you stop caring, and life ends when you stop dreaming.

Do Good No Matter What happen

Have you ever been taken advantage of? When you helped someone get out of a jam because of the goodness of your heart, you found yourself played, used, and abused. Anytime you get stabbed in the back and taken for granted, it's very difficult treating others with unconditional love. In other words, the mistakes of a few have made it bad for all others. Even though people make mistakes, it's imperative that forgiveness occurs and the love of God continues to shine in you and through you.

In this life, I've discovered that the saying of 'nice people finish last' is dead wrong. Let me say it this way. Whoever came up with the idea of saying being nice doesn't work obviously doesn't know God. Whenever you're hooked up with God, you can't help but be nice. Wait a minute! I need to go a bit deeper. With God in your life, you can't help but display love because God is love. That's right; if we want to be more like God, than we need to show our fellow brothers and sisters more love. If this sounds difficult to you, it doesn't have to be when you allow God to order your steps. As we say in the church, 'let go and let God.' If you try to do it yourself, you'll stumble and fall. On the other hand, when God takes over, it becomes easier.

In this spiritual journey, you need to know God loves you so much that He's able to overlook your transgression(s). When you try to play God for a blessing, you're attempting to take advantage of His grace and mercy. You know the story - let me give more in order to gain more financially. This is treating God like a slot machine. Here's my favorite. If I go to church and read the Bible, then God will hook me up with a better job, a new mate, or a 'phat' crib. People try to take advantage of God daily and yet, He's able to forgive them and bless them anyhow. What a mighty God we serve. With that said, I need to warn you: don't play God because you won't get away with it and more importantly, you'll play yourself into a hole.

In writing to the people of Galatia, the apostle Paul penned these words, "Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." Please don't miss this. Whenever you do good from your heart, God will reward you in His own way. Doing good means blessing others as God has blessed you. Doing good means forgiving those who've hurt you and taken advantage of your kindness. And doing good means serving God and allowing His goodness to radiate through you. As I close this message, I want you to get into your spirit that life has many ups and downs and how you react to them will determine how much you've matured in your walk with God.  

Rev. Grey

Change is Possible

Have you ever been told you'll never change? No matter what you said or did, people will hold things against you and remind you of your past. Contradictory to what others may believe, I'm confident that change is always possible. As long as you have breath in your body, there's always hope. Please don't miss this- it may be hard to understand, but change is possible because we serve a God who can take something out of nothing and create a masterpiece. In other words, God can take what seems insignificant to some and make it a blessing to others.

Many people walk around having a pity party because they've been taught change isn't feasible. With all of the mistakes of the past, change seems out of the question. However, I'm here to let you know that God can change you; if you're willing. Once you make up your mind that you want better, God will step in and cause you to do better. 

In this spiritual journey, you must never get in your mind that change can't happen. With God, all things are possible. In a real sense, if you're struggling with alcohol, drugs, and/or illicit sex, God can change your life. Perhaps, you may not have been down that road, and you're dealing with emotional baggage, low self-esteem, loneliness, fear, or feelings of inadequacy; I want you to know that God can step in and change it. Coming into contact with the Creator of the cosmos will produce a lasting change. You have the opportunity to make a 180 degree turn. Through turning away from sin and towards Christ, change begins to happen. Don't get caught up with what your family or friends might say. Get more concerned with what God can do.

In the Bible, we're told of the Apostle Paul's conversion on the Damascus road. Paul went from persecuting the church to building churches. Here was a man who went from locking people up for their belief to strengthening them up in their faith. In describing his conversion (change), Paul wrote of Jesus telling him, "Rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you." Through his change, Paul touched the lives of many people. If God did it for Paul, you're next in line. Whatever you're going through, God can fix it. Whatever illness affects your body, you can be healed. Change is possible, if you believe. In fact, if you want your change now, lift up your hands and give God some praise. When praises go up, blessings come down. The more you praise, the greater your blessing.

Rev. Grey

Can You Handle The Truth

Do you know people who always want to hear the truth, no matter how painful it is? In other words, they want to do away with the lying, sugarcoating, and sucking up. Anyone who wants to hear the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, is a person who chooses to be direct in many things. However, there are many people who don't want to hear the truth because the truth will get into their business, hurt their feelings, and cause them to change their ways. The truth is a hard reality for many people to face because the truth pulls the cover off that which is hidden. How many times have you heard the truth about something you were doing and it messed you up?

In this life, I've discovered that many people want to hide from the truth. That's right; hiding from the truth makes it easier for people to run away from their responsibilities. Think about it for a moment. Hiding from the truth has a way of causing you to lay awake many nights tossing and turning wondering what's going to happen. Anytime you have God on the inside, you'll realize the importance of telling the truth, listening to the truth, and living truthfully. I want you to get into your spirit whenever someone tells you the truth about something, it's not to destroy you, but to build you up into the person God wants you to be.

In this spiritual journey, you need to understand that the enemy is the 'father of lies.' Simply put - the enemy will lie so much to you that you'll begin to think that a lie is the truth. The enemy wants you to justify and defend anything that's not pleasing to God. Let me say it this way. The more you displease God and try to justify it, the more you're falling into the enemy's trap. Living by the truth through your words and actions will cause people to scandalize your name, distance themselves from you, and question your calling in life. But you need to know that God's got your back and will handle your haters. I don't care what happens to you, the truth will break you free from the shackles of deception. I must warn you that the truth may be painful in the beginning, but in the end, it brings deliverance.

While Jesus was having a teachable moment with a crowd gathered around Him, He deposited these words into their spirit, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Please don't miss this. When you know God for yourself, you can't help but speak the truth and live according to the truth. The question is, can you handle the truth? It will cause you to look at yourself differently. As a friend of mine told me, 'the truth will reveal your true character.' That's my word for you. Don't neglect the truth because the truth will deliver you in every area of your life.

Rev. Grey

   

Repentance Leads to Deliverance

Do you know people who often say they're sorry for something but later end up doing the same thing repeatedly? In other words, their apology didn't mean anything because they had no intention of ever changing who they were or what they did. Too many times, people walk around apologizing for this and apologizing for that, but deep down, it's full of junk. Whenever you take in junk, all you give out is junk. Let me say it this way. Whenever you put junk words and junk meaning into your spirit, you'll speak junk in return. For many people who go around using the phrase 'I'm sorry' without meaning it, perhaps, they're sorry themselves. Whatever you do, make sure that your apology is sincere and heartfelt.

In this life, I've discovered that the word 'repent' is foreign to many people. It's foreign because it requires a person to look within himself or herself to correct what's wrong. You need to know repentance is more than talking about what you're going to do; it's actually doing it. Repentance is the act of turning away from your sins (wicked ways) and turning toward God. Repentance means turning away from being unproductive to becoming productive. It means distancing yourself from certain things and certain people who are harming you and bringing you down. Repentance is a choice you have to make in order to live right and be all that God has called you to be. Repentance opens the door to possibilities that are beyond your control.

Reaping What You Sow

In this spiritual journey, you need to sow goodness, happiness, wisdom, and empowerment into the lives of people you know and meet. I can't stop there. You need to sow money into businesses/organizations that value you as a person and are willing to give back to your community. In addition to all of this, you need to sow time into your relationship with God. Here's a hint - the more you sow into God, the more you'll be able to reap from the fruits of your labor. I like this because when you sow into God, you learn how to deal with people and situations that won't bring you down, but lift you up. Making excuses as to why you can't sow will only keep you getting thorns while those around you are blowing up. It's up to you. What are you going to do? Will you sow goodness or corruption? Remember, you reap what you sow.

Finding Good In A Bad Predicament

Do you ever wonder why people are happy and blessed and you're struggling to make things right? Do you feel as though you've dug yourself a hole that no one can get you out of? Often times, people experience drama and trauma in their lives when things aren't going well. One of the first things people do is fall into a depressive mood. Depressed because things didn't turn out the way they wanted. Depressed because they feel like a failure. And depressed because they can't see the light at the end of the tunnel. For people who feel like this, it's hard for them to find any good in a bad predicament. If I'm speaking to you, read on and get ready for your shout.

A few years ago, I had the opportunity of ministering to a person finding all kinds of good in a 'hellish' situation. While we were talking, I learned that physical illness had resulted in multiple surgeries and constant rehabilitation struggles. To the average person, they would feel as though life isn't worth living. However, for this elderly man who was crippled physically, he refused to be crippled emotionally and spiritually. Can we be honest for a moment and say that situations and circumstances have a way of making you enjoy life or complain about the life you have. How you feel about yourself will prevent anyone or anything from stealing your joy. Remember, true joy comes from the inside and isn't dictated by what's happening on the outside. When you understand who you are and whose you are, you'll start finding good in bad predicaments. 

In this spiritual journey, we can learn a few lessons about finding good in a bad predicament. The first lesson learned is you can't prevent problems from happening, but you can control how you deal with them. As I was ministering to this elderly man, he told me, 'the discomforts of life should never define your self-worth.' Let me say it this way. If you rely on things to make you happy, you'll always be confined by people and things. The second lesson learned is that the good that has happened in your life definitely outweighs the bad. When you look back over your life, you'll have to conclude that God has blessed you with so much. In fact, there's still some blessings you've yet to receive; but it's on the way. Anytime you allow God to order your steps, you'll find the good in life. Some situations will appear unpleasant, but if you allow God to be in control, you'll utter the slang, 'it's all good.'

The Psalmist declared these words, "Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears." Please don't miss this last lesson. Praising God for what He's done for you will elevate you from that which is bad to that which is good. When I finished talking to the elderly man, he left me with the words, 'I refuse to complain because the more I complain, the less I appear grateful to the life that God has given me.' I want you to get into your spirit everyday can be a good one - if you choose. That's my word for you. When you feel attacked, in pain, and/or uncertain, start praising God and think about His love, grace, and mercy poured into your life. 

Rev. Grey

Remove Your Stone

Do you ever feel like something's holding you back whenever you decide to move ahead? No matter what you're trying to accomplish, there's something in your past that reminds you of what you can't do and what you can't achieve. In this life, we've all experienced something dramatic. Whether it was losing a loved one, failing a grade, ending a relationship, or walking out when you were most needed, the truth of the matter is that life continues. I know it may be difficult hearing this, but life waits for no one. You either live or die. The choice is yours. You can make the decision to live in victory or wallow in defeat.

Every year, we hear stories of people who've crossed the shores of danger and enter the United States to become successful in business and school. Their story inspires people of all ethnicities to do the impossible. In fact, their commitment to achieving what others deemed complicated helps to add a spark of hope to the bucket of possibility that lies within us. That's right; if you want to blow up, you need to remove the stone(s) of can't and impossible. Stones of negativity can destroy hopes and dreams. Stones of insecurity can cripple self-confidence and self-worth. These stone(s) need to be removed in order to break free.

In this spiritual journey, we can learn a few things about stone(s) in your life. The first lesson is that stones block you from being all the you that God has called you to be. The stone of regret and disappointment. The stone of feeling rejected and dejected by others. Whenever the stone is removed, you'll be able to see what lies ahead of you. The second lesson is that your stone is Satan's way of blocking your blessing. Anytime you blame the enemy for what you can't accomplish, you're giving unnecessary credit to an adversary that wants to kill and destroy you. Instead of blaming others for what you can't do, look in the mirror at what you can do. God's Word tells us, "For with God, nothing will be impossible."

The story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead is very familiar to us. However, what's often overlooked is that Lazarus' sisters (Mary and Martha) wanted to keep him in the tomb because of his death odor. Jesus came to raise a dead (sleeping) man, but they (his sisters) were concerned about the stench. The stone covering the grave kept Lazarus in death and stench. But the good news is that Jesus commanded the people to remove the stone. The next thing Jesus did was that He called Lazarus by name. I like this because God is able to remove your stone and call you out by name so that you can walk out free. The Bible says, "And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with grave clothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Loose him, and let him go." That's my word for you. The same God who was able to remove Lazarus' stone is able to remove your stone. Not only will He cause your stone to be removed, but He'll cause you to be loosed in the process. I want you to know God's ready to do it in your life, - all you have to do is turn it over to Him.

Rev. Grey

Addressing Matters from a Spiritual Perspective

Working with people isn't easy. I don't care who you are or what you do, the truth of the matter is that people can get on your nerves and cause you to lose your mind. I've come to discover there are some people in this world whose job is to cause you to act up and act out contrary to who God called you to be. Falling into their trap allows you to play their game and next thing you know, you're messed up, cracked up, and tripping on the dumbest things. Why? Because you've allowed the negative energy of a few people dictate as well as determine your behavior toward others. As my mentor would say, 'don't give people control over who you are and whose you are.'
  
 In this life, I want you to know how you react to people will determine how far you'll go in life. Let me say that again. When people can influence you to act a fool, you need to check who's in control of your emotional well-being. The more you allow others to determine your happiness and/or worth, the more power they have over you. On the other hand, when you learn how to react to people, you'll have the upper hand in the situation. Simply put - when you remain in control, you'll keep yourself focused and committed to doing what God has called you to do. 
  
 In this spiritual journey, you need to know that God expects all of His children to love one another. That's right; you've got to exhibit love to those who can't stand you and are jealous of you. In a real sense, you've got to have the Spirit of God that's on the inside continuously manifesting itself on the outside. Failure to do so will you keep you from experiencing all that God has for you. With God on the inside, you can handle anything on the outside. Just remember, you have the victory and no demon in hell can mess you up. The enemy can try to destroy you with people, but he's already defeated. When you understand the battle, you'll know how to fight it.
  
 In writing to the people of Ephesus, the apostle Paul penned these words, "Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." Please don't miss this. When people are tripping on you, understand it's not the person, but the spirit in the person. (Oops, I said something) To deal with a spiritual problem, you need a spiritual solution. You can't address a spiritual issue with a fleshly solution. It won't work. That's my word for you. The next time you have to deal with someone who's trying to get on your nerves, look at it from a spiritual perspective and address it from that arena. Allow God to order your steps and everything will work out fine.

Rev. Grey

Turn Can't into Can

Do you know people who are stuck on the word, 'can't?' In other words, their mind has been trained to think of the limited instead of the unlimited. Whenever people go through life operating in can't, they will never experience the can. Let me say that again. Unless you believe in you and the One who created you, how do you expect to receive anything? That may sound somewhat harsh, but it's my task to push you and stretch you to become all the you that God has called you to become. Can't people aren't destined to go far in life.

For the next few moments, I want you to reflect on the many times people told you that you couldn't do something, but you did it anyway. Think back to the times you doubted yourself and later found out you had more strength than you imagined. Transitioning from can't to can starts in your mind. Here's a hint -whatever you feed your mind will manifest itself through your actions. As my formed seminary professor dropped in my spirit years ago, 'you have power within you, but it's up to you to see beyond the natural and grab hold of the spiritual.' Here's the Sinclair remix - 'greater is He that's within you than he that's in the world.' If you begin your transition today, you'll have to leave some people behind and you'll have to shut your eyes and ears to the drama at your door. I must warn you - people will get upset with you, and to that I say, let them get upset because you're destined to go places.

In this spiritual journey, you need to know that God didn't create you with can't in mind. Simply put - you were created in the image of God and because of your created nature and your divine purpose, you should never limit yourself. Too many times people allow past hurts and failures to determine as well as dictate their present. The time to snap out of the funk is now. The time to tap into your inner strength is today. The time to trust that God can do anything and everything in your life is here. Remember, doubtful people produce doubtful results. Here's a question for you - are you sure of yourself or are you doubtful? You're the only person that can answer the question.

In the birth story of John, the Baptist, we're told that Elizabeth, the mother of John, the Baptist was old and barren. In a real sense, it wasn't possible for her to become pregnant, but God in His own supernatural divine purpose caused that which was impossible to become possible. In describing the omnipotence of God, the Bible says, 'With God all things are possible." Please don't miss this. The same God who performed miracles throughout the Bible is the same God who can transition you from can't to can. Do you believe it? Do you want to see God move in your life in greater fashion? Can you say, 'no weapon formed against me shall prosper? Will you declare, 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me?' If you can say yes to all of this, you're ready for your transition. Don't let people or things stop what God has for you.

Rev. Grey

Without Love

Without Love, what would we have? Without Love, who would we be? Without Love, what would know? Without Love, what would be?

Amanada Emily Reed

A Battle You Can Win

"Excuses are tools of incompetence which builds monuments of nothingness and those who specialize in using them, seldom amount to anything." Food for Thought

Paying Homage

 I  would like to say THANK YOU to all of our African-American pioneers that made a stand and fought for our rights. I am truly thankful for your dedication and hard work as well as giving up your lives to make it better for my generation and the generations to come.

Don't Lose Faith

 When God calls you, His deposits courage, boldness, and victory inside of you. That's shouting material because God placed His Spirit in you from the very beginning and the enemy can't steal it. That's my word for you. When you remain faithful in what appears to be a hopeless and helpless situation, God steps in and does something awesome. Remember, God is bigger than your problem and He's your Great Comforter. Lean on Him; He won't let you go.

Never Give Up

Life ends when you  stop dreaming, hope ends when you stop believing & love ends when you  stop caring. So dream hope & love...

Have a bless and wonderful day.

Detoxify Your Mind

If you want to blow up from your thoughts, remove negative words and negative phrases from your mind. Words and phrases such as 'I can't, it's impossible, I don't know if it can be done, and I'll never be able to do that' are crippling. Once you remove the harmful, all that's left is the helpful. That's my word for you. Detoxify your mind so that you can hear from God. If you're not hearing from God, check out what's going on in your head and once you fix what's happening in your head, you'll be able to hear from the Lord of Lords and King of Kings. When you detoxify your body, please don't forget to detoxify your mind.

Rev. Grey

Food For Thought

"It takes a minute to have a crush on someone, a hour to like someone, and a day to fall in love with someone, but it takes a lifetime to forget some1

Jill Scott "Whatever"

One of my favorite songs. Enjoy

Erykah Badu - Bag Lady

Let go and live. I love this song.

Jill Scott "A Long Walk"

The Roots - Break You Off (BET Version) ft. Musiq

Vivian Green - Emotional Rollercoaster

What Are You Doing To Better Yourself

You can't change what happened in the past, but you can affect your future by what you do today. In a real sense, you've been given the opportunity to elevate your standings and it's up to you to take advantage of it. Don't wait on others to give you permission, because God has spoken improvement into your life. That's my word for you. Reach for your goals and never ever get frustrated because God has your back. Do something with your life and be a mighty blessing to others. Your efforts will not go unnoticed.

Rev. Grey

I  may not be the most beautiful or sexiest woman, nor do I have the perfect body. I may not be everybody's first choice, but I'm a great choice.....  I'm a keeper!!!!

I don't pretend to be someone I'm not, because I'm good at being me. I may not be proud of some of my past choices in my life, but I am proud of who I am, of what I have learned .

So take me as I am, or watch me as I walk away. I am proud of being ME!!!!

Real women ROCK!!!!

Patricia Reyes

African American Hair Care Tip

Winter is the season that wrecks the most havoc on curly tresses. From the seemingly instant change in climate to the daily assault of dry, brittle wind and frizz-producing rain -- a curly girl just doesn't have a chance! However, you can counter the evils of winter by incorporating a good hair regime and use quality products for your curly angel's hair. Product choice is paramount. Look for moisturizing cleansers and conditioners and hydrating stylers and leave in products for her curls. Remember curly hair is as delicate as it is beautiful; therefore it is imperative that you treat her hair like you would a fine silk blouse - with extra care. Regular conditioning, daily moisturizing and quality hair care products are a must!

Mahisha Dellinger

Giving Honor

I want to  give thanks for Dr.King and many of our ancestors  that died for our civil rigths and freedom. If it was not for him and many before him,  we as a people will not have some of things that we have today. We as a people need to WORK together and STOP fighting against each other. Just food for thought.

Self Worth

When you love & respect yourself, when you have a strong sense of self, when you feel good about who you are it no longer matters anymore what other people think or say about you. The only thing that matters is your own opinion.

...Always trust the instinct of your heart, it will lead you to truth.

Patricia Reyes

This is Your Year

As we begin this New Year, it's important for you to know that 2011 is the year of renewal, revival, restoration, and reconciliation. A renewal and revival starts with having the right attitude. With the right attitude, you'll begin to achieve all that God has for you. Whatever God has called you to do, it's up to you to make it happen. If it means sacrificing and comprising what you love doing, then so be it. I want you to get into your spirit this important lesson - whenever you set your mind on bigger and better things, you must prepare yourself spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally to do the work. Failure isn't an option. Giving up shouldn't be entertained. Creating success should be envisioned in your spirit and embraced through your actions.

Rev Grey

Sacred Space

Whenever you take your sacred space for granted, you give others permission as well. Sometimes you have to tell people 'no' when it comes to valuing your time and space. If you don't value you, don't expect others to. Love yourself to want the best for yourself in every area of your life.

Rev Grey

For Colored Girls

I would have to say "For Colored Girls" was a very good movie. The issues that these women face does not only happen to women of color but all women. Alot us can relate to some of the characters in this movie. I think Tyler Perry did a excellent job in turning the play into a movie. If you have not seen the movie it is worth watching.

Being Drama Free

There comes a time in life, when you walk away from all the drama and people who create it. You surround yourself with people who make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good. So, love the people who treat you right. Forget about the ones who don't. Life's too short to be anything but happy. Falling down is part of life. Getting back up is LIVING ~ Success is falling down 7 times, and getting up 8 times.

Douglus Colon

Inspirational Vitamin - "Hearing From God"

When God provides you with your answer, it's not your time to analyze, criticize, or ponder. That's it. God has what you stand in need of, all you need to do is listen and act upon it.

Rev. Grey

New Year - New Beginning

Well it's a new year and new slate for everyone. Let's leave the past in the past and look forward to the new you and the new accomplishments that you will obtain in the new year. Stay positive and believe in yourself and remember no one can stop you from reaching your goals that you have set for yourself, but yourself.