Rest...But Don't Quit!

Rest!

Rest if You Must…But Don’t Quit!

Mark 6:30-31

30 Then the apostles gathered to Jesus and told Him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught. 31 And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.

Am I the only parent that does the most  in an attempt to keep their child awake in the afternoon or creates tiring activities so that the child will sleep through the night or sleep in the next morning?

Don’t judge me! LOL

My son seems to have a back up battery for energy. Right when I think he is going down for the count, he gets a surge of seemingly endless energy. Yet, when he is absolutely done, he falls into a deep sleep. He becomes a heavy limp noodle that only God himself can wake up.  But when that sleep is over, he is on level 12 – ready to rock!

I believe that as we get older we avoid naps like the plague and charge our bodies with enough caffeine to run a multi-ton steam engine. Then, when our bodies are craving rest, we fight it. We either believe we are missing out or we have put off necessary items so long that we have no choice but to stay up.

For some, the worries of life keep them up at night thwarting any efforts to get rest.

God wants you to rest. He made night and day for a reason. Even after all of His efforts to establish this world and its inhabitants, the bible says God rested.

Jesus sent his apostles out to do the work of the kingdom and when they returned they were excited about their accomplishments but worn from their efforts. Jesus tells them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.”  He basically said, "Let's take a nap!" But, it wasn’t long after that nap that He fed the multitude.

Your rest is not retreat – your rest is recovery so that you can recharge and roll on!

You don’t have to be the fastest, strongest, or wisest. You need to be the most prepared.

Stop being disobedient – and go to bed.

If you are attempting sleep but cannot get it. Here are a few suggestions and scriptures I say before bed that help me sleep. The bible says that God’s word does not return to Him void (Isaiah 55:11). That means if He says it – it has to happen! So speak His words over your much needed rest.

Exercising, stretching, or reading are great activities that can relax the mind and body to aid in getting rest.

Scriptures on Rest

Psalm 4:8

In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.

Psalms 37:7

Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices!

Exodus 33:14

And He said, "My presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest."

Matthew 11:28-30

"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. "Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. "For My yoke is easy, and My load is light."

Psalm 127:2

It is vain for you to rise up early,
To sit up late,
To eat the bread of sorrows;
For so He gives His beloved sleep.

Say My Name!!!!!!!

Say my name

In the nineties there was a popular singing group called Destiny’s Child. One of their more trendy songs was called “Say My Name”. At first glance, the title alludes that the song has promiscuous intent.

Actually, the song speaks about a gentleman who would not mention his girlfriend’s name over the phone. Although it was easy for him to do it previously, now something has changed. He is hesitant to just say a name…

But what is the big deal about saying a name?

Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (Romans 8:26 NKJV)

Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11 NKJV)

There is a child in our youth department that has somewhat of a speech impediment. When he talks it is difficult to make out what he is saying and many of his words are garbled beyond recognition.

Every Sunday we pick a child to either open our service with prayer or a scripture reading. This particular Sunday, the little boy wanted to say the prayer. I was nervous! How would the other youth react? Would they laugh? Would he get embarrassed? I believe in encouraging children and not limiting them with of our own expectations. We let him lead the prayer. Honestly, 95% of his prayer was difficult to comprehend.

Just as he was about to conclude his open communication with Christ, he closes his prayer with, “In Jesus name, Amen!”

I could have hit the floor! He mumbled every word of his prayer and triumphantly closed clearly and audibly with the name of Jesus!

I don’t know what the little boy said but God does! Placing the name of Jesus in your prayer is a stamp, seal, and signet mark of who is really in control.

It is when we mention the name of JESUS that confusion is clarified and struggling tongues make sense! So, instead of claiming and calling everything else, say the name that carries the power to fix, heal, mend, break, and bind.

It is a name above all names that commands respect, brings items into submission and should be said everywhere. Don’t hide behind opinions – say the name! Don’t wallow in depression – say the name! Don’t claim defeat – say the name! Don’t take all the credit – say the name! I dare you to do it right now – SAY THE NAME!

One final thought...

Have you ever had a document notarized? The point of the notary mark is to verify the authenticity of the document. In ancient Egypt and for many years afterwards a signet ring was dipped in wax and placed on documents to convey personal identity.

If you saw the notary mark today or the wax seal, embossed with the family crest of a signet ring, back then – there was no need to verify – it was properly sealed.
A document can stand by itself, but when you add the seal - that gives the document strength and credibility! Say your prayers and properly seal them.

In the matchless name of Jesus – Amen!

My Easter Speech

Left Behind

Will II in his Resurrection Day outfit 

John 20 (NKJV)

The Empty Tomb

3 Peter therefore went out, and the other disciple, and were going to the tomb. 4 So they both ran together, and the other disciple outran Peter and came to the tomb first. 5 And he, stooping down and looking in, saw the linen cloths lying there; yet he did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; and he saw the linen cloths lying there, 7 and the handkerchief that had been around His head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself.

While ministering in a local women’s prison with my mother, I was intrigued by the jumpsuits that the women had to wear. Every woman wore an overly baggy all white jump suit. The significance of the color and size of the suits was not only to identify them as prisoners but to also restrict easy movement. As a mater of fact, we were told not to wear the same color as the inmates so that we could be identified as different.

The bible says that the next morning when Mary Magadalene returned to the tomb where Jesus was placed – it was empty!

When Peter and the other disciple went to the same tomb, they also discovered that Jesus was missing. However, His burial cloth and the handkerchief that covered His head remained.

Here We Go!

The burial shroud was typically white or off-white linen used to wrap the body. I believe the handkerchief that was neatly folded acted as a veil. Some theologians believe the reason the handkerchief covering His face was folded was to represent the relationship of master to servant. When the master left his dinner napkin folded it meant he was coming back. As in Jesus is coming back again some day. The grave could not hold Him. If he tossed it on the table it meant I am finished. Other theologians counter that theory by saying the reason it was folded was to say that no one stole the body of Jesus. He leisurely left the tomb and had time to fold his handkerchief.

Either way, I believe HE GOT UP and left his unnecessary linens behind.

Just as Jesus left his white burial linens that served to restrict him while in the grave and the veil that masked his face – we too must remove those items that have been holding us in the grave and the masks we are hiding behind. Granted, the clothing did not hold Jesus, it represented bondage and death. Lazarus got up still wearing his burial garments. Jesus got up and left them all behind.

When those women leave prison, it is my prayer that they leave their white robes of bondage behind never to see them again. I also pray that you take off your grave clothes and burial mask. I also charge you to walk out of your death like situation living a resurrected life!

The Lord's Lullaby! Have you heard it?????

Zephaniah 3:17 (NKJV)

The Lord your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.”

8:30PM my son is asleep in his crib. I am elated! It was only he and I for the night and a sleeping child means dad can get stuff done.

I rushed to my computer and excitedly looked over what I planned to accomplish that evening. It didn’t take long for me to get engrossed in work.

Around midnight, I heard a faint cry from will’s room. Assuming my son was only fussing while adjusting, I ignored it and kept working. Soon the feeble cry turn into a boisterous roar.

I darted up the stairs then walked into his pitch-black room trying to avoid his toys. Although I could not see him, the sound of his voice led me to his crib where he was standing and leaning over the rail.

His face was wet with tears. I lifted him up and held him while trying to console him. It didn’t take long to recognize that he also had a stinky surprise for me in his diaper.

On the changing table he tossed and turned while still crying uncontrollably – my every effort to soothe him and remove the diaper was being thwarted. Then, I got the crazy idea to sing to him. I’m not Brian Courtney Wilson, John Legend, or Ron Isley but I gave it my best effort with “Jesus Loves Me”.

Immediately, his demeanor changed. Like laying in a hammock on a breezy afternoon, Will placed his hands behind his head and relaxed.

I believe that many of us get overly annoyed at the mess that we are in and we cry out for assistance. Once assistance arrives, we are so upset at our circumstance that we cannot accept help. Assistance is available but you have to unplug your ears and listen to the song that God is singing over you.

How cool is that?! God makes time to sing you a lullaby!

According to Zephaniah, God is in your midst and His love can and will quiet you. Listen for the sound of His singing. Relax in His presence and allow him to remove that mess that causes things to STINK in your life.

Security of THE WORLD, Craig!

Watch the throne

In 2002, the third installment of the popular Friday movie series was released. The main character, Craig, played by Ice Cube has been robbed and must get a job to pay his rent. He along with his cousin Day Day, played be Mike Epps become security guards at a shopping center.

Craig is uninterested in doing anything above sitting around and just watching the day pass. Day Day is eager for action and is ready to jump at the slightest infraction.

The part of this story that I want to draw focus on is that although they were assigned to secure just one shopping center – Day Day took their job personally. His famous line, “Top Flight Security of the world!” is a challenge and a charge. However his partner mirrors our common response. Craig rebuttals by saying “We are just Craig and Day Day.”

Many Christians apply this concept with the kingdom – they believe that as long as they take care of themselves – the rest will take care of itself.

The bible says in Matthew 28:19, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” Then in 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul writes “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”

Being a Christian is more than a badge pinned to your life, it is a push to not only live your life as an example but also encourage others to live accordingly. After you accept Jesus Christ in your life don’t rest on your decision – you must GO, SERVE, and SAVE!

Similarly, there is an album out called Watch The Throne. In one of the songs on the album, the artist says, “You are now watching the throne – don’t let me get in my zone.” In any sport, the zone is the sweet spot of your playing. When you are in the zone, you are seemingly unstoppable! We can no longer relegate our lives to just watching the game from the bench – we have to play! In the zone, lives are changed, purpose is set in motion, and miracles happen.

God has given you the uniform of authority and access to His resources. There are enough people sitting on the clock taking up time. You represent THE KINGDOM and as an ambassador you must go to work - start in your home and spread the good news of Jesus to the WORLD! 

Expiration Date

This morning I woke up to the awesome aroma of bacon, toast, and eggs. I salivated at the thought of biting into what I knew was going be a great beginning to my day. After swiftly dressing and barreling down the stairs, the vision was everything the fragrance predicted! The homemade breakfast sandwich was delicious!!

After the last bite, I walked to the kitchen and cleaned my plate. There was an open bread bag on the counter. Understanding that we don't consume bread in large quantities, I decided to take a glance at the expiration date.

It was 8 days beyond the date on the bag!!! I immediately felt sick. Ebony gave me that "get it together look" and said, "That is just the sell by date".

You see many of us put our own expiration dates on our lives. We expect things to be accomplished by a specific time or else it is over for that dream or expectation. But we serve a God who tells us that although we make our own plans it is ultimately his purpose that will prevail.

Set goals, write your vision, build a plan - but also know that your plan is just a plan unless you place it before God. Your plan and His purpose will make things happen. If you are one day or several days past your planned day of completion don't give up and don't get sick - He is going to come through. Just as food has preservatives to maintain its life you have the Holy Spirit living in you that is preserving you and maintaining your life. You cannot expire until your creator says it's time. Keep living and keep persevering!

AHHH!!!! I Scream You Scream

Get Ready!

Luke 1:57-58 (NKJV)

57 Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. 58 When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.

Romans 12:15 (NKJV)

15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.

On a hot summer day, the most exciting sounds a child or child like person can hear are the musical chimes of the ice cream truck. Like a bright light to a moth, the music stops children in mid path and beckons them with extreme force. Despite the fun of their current activity, the echo of “ring around the rosie” bouncing through the neighborhood is like brakes on a semi-truck.

You didn’t have to see the truck to get excited. All you had to hear or know was that the truck was coming.

The old saying, “You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream” is true! Everybody is screaming because everybody is getting something.

I argue that we need to start rejoicing when we recognize God blessing our friends and family. There is no victory in pouting, complaining, or worrying about when will you get what you believe you deserve.  The fact that God is blessing your family is proof positive that He is on your pew, your block, your street, or in your house. Your turn is coming!

In Romans, Paul charges the Roman church to move with compassion. Rejoice and weep with others. As much as misery loves company, so does joy. Stop being a fair-weather friend – be there through it all. Joy is contagious – pass it on! Your turn is coming!

While Elizabeth was pregnant with John the Baptist, I am confident people had their opinions.  After all it was baby John that leaped in Elizabeth’s womb when she met with the then pregnant Mary, the mother of Jesus. In verse 58 of Luke chapter 1 it says that God showed her great mercy. I can only assume that the pregnancy was difficult based on that statement. The moment Elizabeth’s baby was born, it wasn’t just her family that got happy. Family is supposed to smile when good things happen to relatives, but do you see that her neighbors got happy also? It's ok, you can cheer for people you aren’t related to!

Your turn is coming! I hear the sound of blessings and all I can tell you to do is get ready. God is on His way to meet you and He is carrying exactly what you have been looking forward to. Rejoice with others and they will rejoice with you.