In a country that is supposedly tolerant to one's religious beliefs we sure are making a big smoke about whether or not Obama is a Muslim. As a private citizen we have a right to say and believe what we want and I surely don't have a problem with that. But when use freedom of speech erroneously and deceptively we cast aspersion that creates a frenzy! When will the madness stop and when will we truly keep at the forefront the concerns of our Nation that are more pertinent i.e, a failing educational system, violence in America's cities, the health crisis, etc. As the guys on ESPN Sunday Night Live would say "C'mon man!"
That there is widening belief in erroneous information is deeply disheartening. It reveals a widespread willingness to take as sacrosanct that which is implied by celebrities even when it contradicts a personal memory of events. -Dylan Brody
One's religious beliefs should be their own personal business -Kenny Gamble of Gamble & Huff
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Timid Tuesday!
The things in life that cause us to be timid will eventually hinder us and prevent us from reaching the various goals we have set forth. When a person is lacking in self-assurance, courage, or bravery it opens the door to fear. Not the kind of fear we have of a parent or of God but the fear of hopelessness and helplessness. One of the ways some people address their fears is by "taking them head on." For example, let's say I have a fear of heights and I am terrified to fly on an airplane. The only way I can overcome this fear is by developing the courage to fly. Granted overcoming our timidness is not as simple or as easily obtained as described above. Some of our fears are much more deeply rooted than just being merely afraid of flying. In many cases, it takes years and years of personal and spiritual development, study, and acceptance for one to overcome their fears.
As spiritual beings we have a sure force in the universe who is the source of all courage and power to help us overcome our deepest fears. No matter what monotheistic religious faith one practices the central force behind all courage and power (grace) is God. Whether we believe he has sent prophets and His Son or prophets alone to represent Him, His power(grace) and authority remains the same throughout the universe. That's why he is described as Omnipresent! When we lean on Him the fears of this world such as physical death have no hold on over us (Prov 3:5-6 NIV).
Utilizing the examples of Jesus (PBUH) is a wonderful way for us to began to overcome our timidness of the adverse conditions that this world brings us. From a biblical perspective we know that God sent Jesus to die on the cross and was resurrected. In that act alone there is much power and courage for us to look at and apply to our own lives. Also, it reminds me of why my grandmother's loved the song "Blessed Assurance." When we utilize the ability that God has given us to overcome the fears of this world, it assures us about His protection over our lives because of His divine love and mercy for us. (Ep 2:4-5)
In closing, when we wholeheartedly implore the power and courage of Almighty God we no longer have the fears of this world. We overcome the fears that have hindered us and we become the master of our fears (fearless). Which leads us to becoming only fearful of Him who is Elohim (God Almighty) and lean totally on Him and Him alone! May God continue to protect and restore us daily with His unchanging authority and power forever and ever! Thank God, Amen!
Quotes on Fear:
“Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.” -Yoda
“Normal fear protects us; abnormal fear paralyzes us. Normal fear motivates us to improve our individual and collective welfare; abnormal fear constantly poisons and distorts our inner lives. Our problem is not to be rid of fear but, rather to harness and master it.” -Dr. MLK Jr.
Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.” -Dr. MLK Jr.
"The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost,
to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experiences."
-Unkown
Keep your fears to yourself but share your courage with others. -Robert Louis Stevenson
Many of our fears are tissue-paper-thin, and a single courageous step would carry us clear through them. -Brendan Francis
There is much in the world to make us afraid. There is much more in our faith to make us unafraid. -Frederick W. Cropp
"Men fear death as children fear to go in the dark."
-Francis Bacon
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
— Marianne Williamson (A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of a Course in Miracles)
“Always do what you are afraid to do.” “He who is not everyday conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life.”-Ralph Waldo Emerson
“FEAR is an acronym in the English language for "False Evidence Appearing Real"” -Neale Donald Wals...ch
“You block your dream when you allow your fear to grow bigger than your faith." -Mary Manin Morrissey
Scriptural Footnotes:
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (Prov 3:5-6)
What he trusts in is fragile; what he relies on is a spider's web. He leans on his web, but it gives way; he clings to it, but it does not hold.(Job 8:14-15 NIV)
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. (Heb 5:7 NIV)
but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. (2 Tim 1:10 NIV)
But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. (Ep 2:4-5)
Then you turned back after that; so were it not for the grace of Allah(God) and His mercy on you, you would certainly have been among the losers. (Surah 2:4)
Our Lord! make not our hearts to deviate after Thou hast guided us aright, and grant us from Thee mercy; surely Thou art the most liberal Giver. Our Lord! surely Thou art the Gatherer of men on a day about which there is no doubt; surely Allah (God) will not fail (His) promise. (Surah 3:8-9) He specially chooses for His mercy whom He pleases; and Allah is the Lord of mighty grace. (Surah 3:74) So they returned with favor from Allah (God) and (His) grace, no evil touched them and they followed the pleasure of Allah (God); and Allah (God) is the Lord of mighty grace. (Surah 3:174)
And when there comes to them news of security or fear they spread it abroad; and if they had referred it to the Apostle and to those in authority among them, those among them who can search out the knowledge of it would have known it, and were it not for the grace of Allah (God) upon you and His mercy, you would have certainly followed the Shaitan save a few (Surah 4:83)
As spiritual beings we have a sure force in the universe who is the source of all courage and power to help us overcome our deepest fears. No matter what monotheistic religious faith one practices the central force behind all courage and power (grace) is God. Whether we believe he has sent prophets and His Son or prophets alone to represent Him, His power(grace) and authority remains the same throughout the universe. That's why he is described as Omnipresent! When we lean on Him the fears of this world such as physical death have no hold on over us (Prov 3:5-6 NIV).
Utilizing the examples of Jesus (PBUH) is a wonderful way for us to began to overcome our timidness of the adverse conditions that this world brings us. From a biblical perspective we know that God sent Jesus to die on the cross and was resurrected. In that act alone there is much power and courage for us to look at and apply to our own lives. Also, it reminds me of why my grandmother's loved the song "Blessed Assurance." When we utilize the ability that God has given us to overcome the fears of this world, it assures us about His protection over our lives because of His divine love and mercy for us. (Ep 2:4-5)
In closing, when we wholeheartedly implore the power and courage of Almighty God we no longer have the fears of this world. We overcome the fears that have hindered us and we become the master of our fears (fearless). Which leads us to becoming only fearful of Him who is Elohim (God Almighty) and lean totally on Him and Him alone! May God continue to protect and restore us daily with His unchanging authority and power forever and ever! Thank God, Amen!
Quotes on Fear:
“Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.” -Yoda
“Normal fear protects us; abnormal fear paralyzes us. Normal fear motivates us to improve our individual and collective welfare; abnormal fear constantly poisons and distorts our inner lives. Our problem is not to be rid of fear but, rather to harness and master it.” -Dr. MLK Jr.
Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.” -Dr. MLK Jr.
"The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost,
to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experiences."
-Unkown
Keep your fears to yourself but share your courage with others. -Robert Louis Stevenson
Many of our fears are tissue-paper-thin, and a single courageous step would carry us clear through them. -Brendan Francis
There is much in the world to make us afraid. There is much more in our faith to make us unafraid. -Frederick W. Cropp
"Men fear death as children fear to go in the dark."
-Francis Bacon
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
— Marianne Williamson (A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of a Course in Miracles)
“Always do what you are afraid to do.” “He who is not everyday conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life.”-Ralph Waldo Emerson
“FEAR is an acronym in the English language for "False Evidence Appearing Real"” -Neale Donald Wals...ch
“You block your dream when you allow your fear to grow bigger than your faith." -Mary Manin Morrissey
Scriptural Footnotes:
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (Prov 3:5-6)
What he trusts in is fragile; what he relies on is a spider's web. He leans on his web, but it gives way; he clings to it, but it does not hold.(Job 8:14-15 NIV)
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. (Heb 5:7 NIV)
but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. (2 Tim 1:10 NIV)
But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. (Ep 2:4-5)
Then you turned back after that; so were it not for the grace of Allah(God) and His mercy on you, you would certainly have been among the losers. (Surah 2:4)
Our Lord! make not our hearts to deviate after Thou hast guided us aright, and grant us from Thee mercy; surely Thou art the most liberal Giver. Our Lord! surely Thou art the Gatherer of men on a day about which there is no doubt; surely Allah (God) will not fail (His) promise. (Surah 3:8-9) He specially chooses for His mercy whom He pleases; and Allah is the Lord of mighty grace. (Surah 3:74) So they returned with favor from Allah (God) and (His) grace, no evil touched them and they followed the pleasure of Allah (God); and Allah (God) is the Lord of mighty grace. (Surah 3:174)
And when there comes to them news of security or fear they spread it abroad; and if they had referred it to the Apostle and to those in authority among them, those among them who can search out the knowledge of it would have known it, and were it not for the grace of Allah (God) upon you and His mercy, you would have certainly followed the Shaitan save a few (Surah 4:83)
Monday, August 30, 2010
Mercurial Monday!
Mercurial Monday! More often than not Monday's are one of the most somber and unpredictable days of the week for most people. The mindset of many people on Monday is "back to the grind," "back to the slave," or "back to that damn job!" But, I liken Monday's to meeting new people for the first time--you need to break the ice! Our Monday's and any day for that matter can be more marvelous if we break the ice when we are feeling down. Starting one's day with prayer is a great way to break the ice of a mercurial outlook. When we acknowledge the One who is the author of life--we begin to see a rapid change in our demeanor that is very consistent when align ourselves with The Creator. When we look at Jesus and all the prophets (PBUT) we see them not relying on the ice breakers of this world. They never missed a beat when it came to acknowledging The Master Creator. So, don't let the low valleys of this world get you down just remember that there is an ice breaker who is marvelous all day every day 24/7/365 and his name is God!
Scriptural Footnotes:
Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the LORD is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other. (Duet 4:39 NIV)
"Be still, and know that I am God;I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalt...ed in the earth." The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah (Ps 146: 10-11 NIV)
Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth." (Hosea 6:3 NIV)
but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. (1 John 4:3 NIV)
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24 NIV)
Allah (God) amplifies and straightens the means of subsistence for whom He pleases; and they rejoice in this world's life, and this world's life is nothing compared with the hereafter but a temporary enjoyment. (Holy Qu'ran 13:26)
Our Lord! make not our hearts to deviate after Thou hast guided us aright, and grant us from Thee mercy; surely Thou art the most liberal Giver. Our Lord! surely Thou art the Gatherer of men on a day about which there is no doubt; surely Allah (God) will not fail (His) promise. (Holy Qu'ran 3:8-9)
Thesaurus:
Scriptural Footnotes:
Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the LORD is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other. (Duet 4:39 NIV)
"Be still, and know that I am God;I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalt...ed in the earth." The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah (Ps 146: 10-11 NIV)
Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth." (Hosea 6:3 NIV)
but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. (1 John 4:3 NIV)
This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118:24 NIV)
Allah (God) amplifies and straightens the means of subsistence for whom He pleases; and they rejoice in this world's life, and this world's life is nothing compared with the hereafter but a temporary enjoyment. (Holy Qu'ran 13:26)
Our Lord! make not our hearts to deviate after Thou hast guided us aright, and grant us from Thee mercy; surely Thou art the most liberal Giver. Our Lord! surely Thou art the Gatherer of men on a day about which there is no doubt; surely Allah (God) will not fail (His) promise. (Holy Qu'ran 3:8-9)
Thesaurus:
| Adj. | 1. | mercurial - liable to sudden unpredictable change; "erratic behavior"; "fickle weather"; "mercurial twists of temperament"; "a quicksilver character, cool and willful at one moment, utterly fragile the next" |
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Spirit Sunday!
Spirit Sunday! How is spirit defined: The vital principle or animating force within living beings. The essential nature of a person or group. A person as characterized by a stated quality. One's spirit plays a vital role in the way one goes about how they live their lives. The spirit of a man/woman is what ultimately substains them in times of comfort or chaos. However, if the spirit of a man is not properly developed it won't sustain him in times of comfort or choas. That's why we learn in the Word of Yahweh (God) that he and he alone is our Help...help in that He sustains us if we put our total trust in Him and submit to do His will our spirit-man will be at peace and exude joy at all times. Jesus was described as having a perfect peace (Is 26:3-4 NIV) because his mind was steadfast on the Father. Our souls will only find perfect peace in Him who is peace, we must continue to trust in the Lord throughout all of our days on this planet because He truly is our only salvation!
The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. -Martin Luther King Jr., Strength to Love, 1963
If you keep in tune with Christ, you can sing even in the dark. -RBC Ministries
Scriptural Footnotes:
Truly my soul silently waits for God; From Him comes my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved (Ps 62:1-2 NKJV).
Do NOT put your trust in princes, nor in a son of man, in whom THERE IS NO HELP...Happy is he who has the GOD of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his GOD." (Ps. 146:3-5 NKJV).
Thee do we serve and Thee do we beseech for help. (Holy Qu'ran 1:5)
The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. -Martin Luther King Jr., Strength to Love, 1963
If you keep in tune with Christ, you can sing even in the dark. -RBC Ministries
Scriptural Footnotes:
Truly my soul silently waits for God; From Him comes my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved (Ps 62:1-2 NKJV).
Do NOT put your trust in princes, nor in a son of man, in whom THERE IS NO HELP...Happy is he who has the GOD of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his GOD." (Ps. 146:3-5 NKJV).
Thee do we serve and Thee do we beseech for help. (Holy Qu'ran 1:5)
Friday, August 27, 2010
Focus Friday!
It's Focus Friday! Do you we truly have order in our lives or do we allow the things that aren't so important take our focus away? When we look at the lives of those who are successful and have an objective to obtain their focus is razor sharp! When we look at it through the eyes of Jesus we see just of how razor sharp he was in spite of the many trials that came his way. We must never shrink in the face of hard trails because no matter what they are going to come. If we are able to focus on God then we can endure the test. (James 1:12 NIV) and truly understand that God is not the author of confusion! We can never disrespect God's presence and authority over our daily lives. We must be vigilant believers in the sense that obtaining God's mind is our main objective while on this earth. Pride and self-serving attitudes must never cloud our spirit but if they do--that's when we have to call on that razor sharp focus that Christ had. He never left his Father's light even though there was darkness all around him (John 12:35, Matt 6:23 NIV). Our service to The Father must be mature and complete not lacking anything which produces the patience required for us to be stayed on Him (James 1:2-4 NIV) so that we will never be far from Him. The moment our focus shifts it can spell disaster for even the most seasoned believer . But God truly is not the author of confusion but of peace. (1 Cor 14:33, Jer 29:11 NKJV)
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Why Suffer?
Why suffer? the student asks his teacher?" Yeshua (Jesus) taught that the world seen from God's viewpoint is tilted in favor of the oppressed." The student asks "but why would God single out the oppressed for special attention?" The teacher responds by saying suffering helps us to deny self as Jesus taught--suffering helps us to totally rely on God, suffering helps us to distinguish between our needs and wants, and suffering helps us to bear witness to God's word and surrender ourselves totally to his beneficence, mercy, and grace.
Scriptural/Literary Support:
"That in our darkest hour, an hour when you think you should give up because the forces arrayed against you are so mighty; so powerful; and they look as though they have totally overwhelmed you, it is in that hour that your greatest opportunity for triumph is in you." "And it is in that hour that most people give up the struggle and they never come to victory over the forces that are now apparently overwhelming them." -(Hon. Min. Louis Farrakhan, excerpt from Closing the Gap)
"The hardships we experience, the trials we face, will teach us that we're strongest when we're trusting in God's grace. -Sper
"Hard trials are necessary..."-Hon. Min. Louis Farrakhan
In bringing many sons to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the author of their salvation perfect through suffering. -Heb 2:10 NIV
-To be continued next time God Willing...
Copyright June 2010 Bro. Lamon Caldwell II
The Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings is an organization of Believers of the Universal Divine Creator/One God of the Universe whom are students of Divine scriptural teachings who cross generational, religious, and cultural gaps to promote healing and to reveal the linkages between all Believers of the Universal Divine Creator/One God of the Universe... by whatever name you call Him, He is the same Universal Divine Creator/One God of the entire Universe.
A Place...
A place where there are no more questions about your existence and presence in the earth. The sight of grandeur and majesty comb the landscape of this vast region. The purity and organic essence of life itself is the order of the day here. A place where all is still and all is well. To be in the grasp of such beauty is an honor as if I've tasted sweet honey. This is the voice of freedom in its authentic state. This experience is like heaven on earth--a place to call forever and ever. To describe it is like flipping the number eight on its side. My eyes have seen and dreamed of a place like this--this place is the source of civilization...
Copyright March 2006
The Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings
The Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings is an organization of believers of The Universal Divine Creator/One God of the Universe whom are students of Divine scriptural teachings who cross generational, religious, and cultural gaps to promote healing and to reveal the linkages between all believers of the Universal Divine Creator/One God of the Universe... by whatever name you call Him, He is the same Universal Divine Creator/One God of the entire Universe. God is the universal governing force and power of all humanity.
We believe in Liberation Theology which construes the teachings of all Holy scripture in terms of a liberation platform for unjust economic, political, or social conditions. We respect and believe in the peace, freedom, justice, and equality of all people regardless of race, creed, color, social, economic, or political affiliation(s).
We respect the work of all God-fearing people whether of traditional or non-traditional faiths.
We believe in The One God, Maker, Owner and Master Creator of the entire Universe regardless of the many Holy names we call Him. In having acknowledged so; let us unite on that principle so that we can stop allowing our differences in morals, culture, faith tradition(s) and dogma keep us from the true essence of The One God. We contend that we can learn something of value and benefit from all Holy scriptures that have come to the planet Earth.
We believe in working for the upliftment of the whole of humanity towards a higher understanding of The Universal Divine Creator/One God and the moral greater good of all mankind. We are soldiers in the fight against injustice and evil where ever it may exist in the Universe.
We believe in sound moral character which allows us to respect and obey the laws of the land in which we reside. Therefore, we contend that The Universal Divine Creator/One God is the Creator of all living things and that we fear none but Him who is the source of our existence.
We are willing to work with any group, organization, or person(s) regardless of race, creed, color, social, economic, or political affiliation(s). On the bases that The Universal Divine Creator is One and that He is the Maker and Master of all.
"BIBLE & QUR'AN, TO ME THEY'RE BOTH VITAL." -COMMON
What good are the divine scriptures if you don't read and study them?
LIKE COMMON SAID "YOU GOTTA READ THEM BOYS."
If Abraham/Ibrahim, Moshe/Moses, Yeshua/Jesus, and Muhmmad Ibn Abdullah (PBUT).... If these great men were on this stage today not one of would be at variance with the other--they all belonged to the same school..." -HMLF
We believe in Liberation Theology which construes the teachings of all Holy scripture in terms of a liberation platform for unjust economic, political, or social conditions. We respect and believe in the peace, freedom, justice, and equality of all people regardless of race, creed, color, social, economic, or political affiliation(s).
We respect the work of all God-fearing people whether of traditional or non-traditional faiths.
We believe in The One God, Maker, Owner and Master Creator of the entire Universe regardless of the many Holy names we call Him. In having acknowledged so; let us unite on that principle so that we can stop allowing our differences in morals, culture, faith tradition(s) and dogma keep us from the true essence of The One God. We contend that we can learn something of value and benefit from all Holy scriptures that have come to the planet Earth.
We believe in working for the upliftment of the whole of humanity towards a higher understanding of The Universal Divine Creator/One God and the moral greater good of all mankind. We are soldiers in the fight against injustice and evil where ever it may exist in the Universe.
We believe in sound moral character which allows us to respect and obey the laws of the land in which we reside. Therefore, we contend that The Universal Divine Creator/One God is the Creator of all living things and that we fear none but Him who is the source of our existence.
We are willing to work with any group, organization, or person(s) regardless of race, creed, color, social, economic, or political affiliation(s). On the bases that The Universal Divine Creator is One and that He is the Maker and Master of all.
"BIBLE & QUR'AN, TO ME THEY'RE BOTH VITAL." -COMMON
What good are the divine scriptures if you don't read and study them?
LIKE COMMON SAID "YOU GOTTA READ THEM BOYS."
If Abraham/Ibrahim, Moshe/Moses, Yeshua/Jesus, and Muhmmad Ibn Abdullah (PBUT).... If these great men were on this stage today not one of would be at variance with the other--they all belonged to the same school..." -HMLF
The worst paying jobs: Is it all about the $$$
Original Post from 8/12/2010:
It's a shame that educators and social/human services personnel aren't some of the highest paid...no wonder the ills that are present in our society today exist! And no wonder we are in an American education crisis... Is it all about the doe or is it about making America better? "The education of this world is a failure because it has not produced the man that God desires." Min. Farrakhan
The jobs that are the highest paid may make one financially secure but are they helping make our Nation a leader among the world's nation's. And of our careers like teaching, social work, culinary arts, etc that are some of the worst paying jobs that those with exceptional talent and ability tend to stay away from those fields because "there's no money in it." Could this be the cause of a rapidly declining America in areas of moral and social responsibility, health, and education. I remember back in the day when being a teacher was a thing of nobility to sort of speak or being able take a "home ec" or auto mechanics class in high school were sought as skills of high value. Today those who may have the passion and gift for teaching and careers that call for some sort of service to the public seem to opt out for a more rewarding and less stresful career as mentioned above. The education and jobs that produced the skills and values that were cherished yesterday are nothing more than mere titles today. How can we increase the value of education and become a better society?
http://finance.yahoo.com/college-education/article/110196/20-worst-paying-college-degrees-in-2010?mod=edu-continuing_education
It's a shame that educators and social/human services personnel aren't some of the highest paid...no wonder the ills that are present in our society today exist! And no wonder we are in an American education crisis... Is it all about the doe or is it about making America better? "The education of this world is a failure because it has not produced the man that God desires." Min. Farrakhan
The jobs that are the highest paid may make one financially secure but are they helping make our Nation a leader among the world's nation's. And of our careers like teaching, social work, culinary arts, etc that are some of the worst paying jobs that those with exceptional talent and ability tend to stay away from those fields because "there's no money in it." Could this be the cause of a rapidly declining America in areas of moral and social responsibility, health, and education. I remember back in the day when being a teacher was a thing of nobility to sort of speak or being able take a "home ec" or auto mechanics class in high school were sought as skills of high value. Today those who may have the passion and gift for teaching and careers that call for some sort of service to the public seem to opt out for a more rewarding and less stresful career as mentioned above. The education and jobs that produced the skills and values that were cherished yesterday are nothing more than mere titles today. How can we increase the value of education and become a better society?
http://finance.yahoo.com/college-education/article/110196/20-worst-paying-college-degrees-in-2010?mod=edu-continuing_education
Thoughtful Thursday!
Thoughtful Thursday! Who do you think about and help besides yourself? There's a saying that goes "If you help enough people get what they want then you'll get what you want." Thinking back and looking at the lives of those who serve other's--there is a certain and special joy that seems to permeate throughout their disposition. Although the first law of nature may be self preservation...there comes a certain and special joy when we are selfless as the Master was. The call to serve other's is not an easy undertaking and requires one to die of self daily and put on the new man! Regardless of whether you serve or not we as followers of Almighty God must be renewed daily. Being thoughtful of the examples of Christ allows us to see just what it means to be transformed in our spirit-man. It takes us farther and farther away from this world which is enmity with God (James 4:4 NKJV) (Eph 2:14-18 NKJV). It allows us to take off the old man and put on the man. (Eph 4:17-24 NKJV) We become less concerned about the outward appearances of this world that are fair-seeming and we draw near to the things that are long lasting. So, in essence the certain and special joy that seems to permeate throughout one's disposition who serves is Love. And there is no doubt about it that God is Love!
*Some SScriptural Footnotes:
Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. (2 Cor 4:16 NKJV)
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. (Col 3:2 NKJV)
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. (Rom 8:7 NKJV)
That you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. (Eph 4:22-24)
The love of desires, of women and sons and hoarded treasures of gold and silver and well bred horses and cattle and tilth, is made to seem fair to men; this is the provision of the life of this world; and Allah (God) is He with Whom is the good goal (of life). (Holy Quran 3:14)
*Some SScriptural Footnotes:
Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. (2 Cor 4:16 NKJV)
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. (Col 3:2 NKJV)
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. (Rom 8:7 NKJV)
That you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. (Eph 4:22-24)
The love of desires, of women and sons and hoarded treasures of gold and silver and well bred horses and cattle and tilth, is made to seem fair to men; this is the provision of the life of this world; and Allah (God) is He with Whom is the good goal (of life). (Holy Quran 3:14)
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
The 9/11 Mosque... To be or not to be?
The harsh dialog that has been taking place for weeks on this subject has made me wonder the same thing "We really don't know each other well enough." And "We really don't pay full attention to what is going on due to our rampant emotions that smother the painful realities that the truth of the matter presents before us because of our American zeal and false sense of entitlement." I respect those who have lost loved ones and I still grieve over the tragedy of 9/11 as it was a dark day in our Nation's history. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/shahnaz-taplinchinoy/post_713_b_690113.html
Past Daily Devotionals...... In no particular order
8/24/2010
Task Tuesday! 1. A piece of work assigned or done as part of one's duties. 2. A difficult or tedious undertaking. 3. A function to be performed; an objective. The Creator requires of us an assignment, a function to be performed that is very tedious. Question is are we up to the task?
8/23/2010
Productive Monday! Thanking God for allowing positive productivity to take place on this day!
8/22/2010
Superfluous Sunday! God's love is so superfluous because it extends his mercy and grace to us because in reality with all of the wickedness we see and do today he could crush this world at anytime. Which is why we have to be in total submission to Him and His Christ at all times. And the only way we can do that is by humbling ourselves before his Majesty!
For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 1 Peter 4:17
Evil is that for which they have sold their souls -- that they should deny what Allah has revealed, out of envy that Allah should send down of His grace on whomsoever of His servants He pleases; so they have made themselves deserving of wrath upon wrath, and there is a disgraceful punishment for the unbelievers. Surah 2:90
"We're afraid to walk with Jesus because we're afraid to go through what he had to go through..." "We can't get to perfection until we get to correction." -Farrakhan
8/21/2010
Super Saturday! The brotha is standing on the promises of God patiently. Never forgetting that the Almighty has the brothas' back no matter the situation! No worries God's gatcha!
Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God. —Carter
All of God’s promises are backed by His wisdom, love, and power. -RBC Ministries
8/20/2010
It's Fulfilling Friday! Fulfilling: Making someone satisfied or happy because of fully developing their character or abilities. Nuff said! That's what God and His word does for us! TGIF!
8/19/2010
Titanic Thursday! Today's a big day for you and me to Live life to the fullest, "Carpe diem quam minime credula postero." Be Blessed Family...
8/18/2010
Wonderful Wednesday! Another opportunity to get better and grow as a man! As a work in progress I keep striving to do what I am suppose to do on this day and I realize it's a wonderful day to be alive even in this time of peril and crisis that we live in. Because the Almighty God is still in control!
Scriptural Footnotes:
Cause me to hear Your loving kindness in the morning,
For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You. Deliver me, O LORD, from my enemies In You I take shelter. Teach me to do Your will, For You are my God. Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness. (Ps 143:8-10 NIV)
8/17/2010
Thunderous Tuesday! Know that God is in charge and be sure that you have the Power & Victory in His name no matter the circumstances! God is the Greatest! Let's get it!
Scriptural Footnotes:
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13 NIV)
And every one has a direction to which he should turn, therefore hasten to (do) good works; wherever you are, Allah (God) will bring you all together; surely Allah (God) has power over all things. (Holy Quran Chap 2:148)
8/16/2010
Meticulous Monday! God's love and will in our lives is very detailed and precise when we totally trust and lean on Him. Thinking about the example that Christ showed us it's obvious that this is so! Happy Monday FB fam!
8/15/2010
Stupendous Sunday! The astounding and marvelous force of The Almighty truly leaves me in complete awe! Try and trust God in all that you do... sell out for Him and he won't leave ya hangin'! That's "real talk" as the young ppl say!
8/14/2010
Stupendous Saturday! On my way to practice... the kids are still funny! Thinkin' back to some of the stuff I use to pull to get out of practice when I was a FRESHMAN!!! :-) The Creator is doing His thing over my life! Whatever the situation just know that "this to shall pass" and allow the Creator to help u See It Through and Never, Never Give Up!
8/13/2010
Fabulous Friday! The brotha is up in thought and prayer! Headed to dialysis at the crack of dawn! Then off to coach football with the youngin's! A full day indeed...brotha is glad he is good n busy!!! TGIF!!!
Ps 112 NIV
8/12/2010
Tremendous Thursday! The power of the Almighty is very present in the brothas' life... I'm on the move! Ex 15:2, Ps 27:1, Isaiah 41:10
8/11/2010
Wonderful Wednesday! Peace and success to all who will be fasting during the month of Ramadan! Regardless if your a Jew, Christian, or Muslim fasting is a beautiful way to be come one with self and The Creator. To God be the Glory!
Scriptural Footnotes:
“Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. -Matt 6:16-18 NKJV
"O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may guard against evil." Holy Qur'an 2:183
Abraham/Ibrahim, Moshe/Moses, Yeshua/Isa/Jesus, and Muhmmad Ibn Abdullah (PBUT).... If these great men were on this stage today not one of would be at variance with the other--they all belonged to the same school..." -HMLF
8/10/2010
Tremendous Tuesday! The brotha is keepin' it movin' in a positive n productive direction. The brotha is really embracing this servant leadership concept. But dealing with the people is more than full time job! :-) God is Great!
8/9/2010
Mindful Monday... Woke up feel'n good knowing that I am not perfect and that I make mistakes but I strive to be like and follow Yeshua/Isa/Jesus knowing that I must deny self daily and pick up my own cross! That's the goodness of Yah/Yahweh/Allah/Jah/Jehovah/God's Word, Mercy, and Grace which ultimately equals his Love for us! Check it I'm not some holier than thou type of dude but I recognize when the spirit is moving and all I can do is fall under submission and keep it 100 (as the kids say) with God's movement in my life! Study Ps 34:1 NKJV
That's why we strive here on earth regardless of our heavenly reward that is awaiting us up above. There is still work to do on this earth that we as believers must not neglect!
Let me add on more... so here's the beauty of Mary ska Our Lady of Mt. Carmel aka Mary/Marium the Holy Mother (PBUH) and the prayer of Hail Mary and why at the end of the prayer we ask her to pray for us that I didn't realize while in theology class at MC--something that I thought was just a learned tradition in Catholicism. "Any woman who goes through the unpleasant pain of child birth in God's eyes is regarded as the most sacred of all his creations." Why? Because through the womb of a woman the prayers of the righteous for deliverance are answered. Which is why Jesus' birth was most important and any birth that answers the cry of the righteous for deliverance from the ills and wiles of this world is important. This is why souls like MLK Jr., Malcolm X, Ghandi, Mother Teresa, etc. have come on the scene because they all were and continue to be great examples of deliverance. Whether the world fully agreed with their stance or not they all are in the line of Jesus because the rulers of his day didn't fully agree with him either. They were spiritual warriors! Some of us may not want to admit it but we have some among us now who we know are anointed by the Almighty but because they buck the system and don't follow tradition we tend to shy away from them out of fear. Ok! I won't go any further! I'm off the soapbox for now! :-)-Bro. Lamon
Task Tuesday! 1. A piece of work assigned or done as part of one's duties. 2. A difficult or tedious undertaking. 3. A function to be performed; an objective. The Creator requires of us an assignment, a function to be performed that is very tedious. Question is are we up to the task?
8/23/2010
Productive Monday! Thanking God for allowing positive productivity to take place on this day!
8/22/2010
Superfluous Sunday! God's love is so superfluous because it extends his mercy and grace to us because in reality with all of the wickedness we see and do today he could crush this world at anytime. Which is why we have to be in total submission to Him and His Christ at all times. And the only way we can do that is by humbling ourselves before his Majesty!
For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 1 Peter 4:17
Evil is that for which they have sold their souls -- that they should deny what Allah has revealed, out of envy that Allah should send down of His grace on whomsoever of His servants He pleases; so they have made themselves deserving of wrath upon wrath, and there is a disgraceful punishment for the unbelievers. Surah 2:90
"We're afraid to walk with Jesus because we're afraid to go through what he had to go through..." "We can't get to perfection until we get to correction." -Farrakhan
8/21/2010
Super Saturday! The brotha is standing on the promises of God patiently. Never forgetting that the Almighty has the brothas' back no matter the situation! No worries God's gatcha!
Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God. —Carter
All of God’s promises are backed by His wisdom, love, and power. -RBC Ministries
8/20/2010
It's Fulfilling Friday! Fulfilling: Making someone satisfied or happy because of fully developing their character or abilities. Nuff said! That's what God and His word does for us! TGIF!
8/19/2010
Titanic Thursday! Today's a big day for you and me to Live life to the fullest, "Carpe diem quam minime credula postero." Be Blessed Family...
8/18/2010
Wonderful Wednesday! Another opportunity to get better and grow as a man! As a work in progress I keep striving to do what I am suppose to do on this day and I realize it's a wonderful day to be alive even in this time of peril and crisis that we live in. Because the Almighty God is still in control!
Scriptural Footnotes:
Cause me to hear Your loving kindness in the morning,
For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You. Deliver me, O LORD, from my enemies In You I take shelter. Teach me to do Your will, For You are my God. Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness. (Ps 143:8-10 NIV)
8/17/2010
Thunderous Tuesday! Know that God is in charge and be sure that you have the Power & Victory in His name no matter the circumstances! God is the Greatest! Let's get it!
Scriptural Footnotes:
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13 NIV)
And every one has a direction to which he should turn, therefore hasten to (do) good works; wherever you are, Allah (God) will bring you all together; surely Allah (God) has power over all things. (Holy Quran Chap 2:148)
8/16/2010
Meticulous Monday! God's love and will in our lives is very detailed and precise when we totally trust and lean on Him. Thinking about the example that Christ showed us it's obvious that this is so! Happy Monday FB fam!
8/15/2010
Stupendous Sunday! The astounding and marvelous force of The Almighty truly leaves me in complete awe! Try and trust God in all that you do... sell out for Him and he won't leave ya hangin'! That's "real talk" as the young ppl say!
8/14/2010
Stupendous Saturday! On my way to practice... the kids are still funny! Thinkin' back to some of the stuff I use to pull to get out of practice when I was a FRESHMAN!!! :-) The Creator is doing His thing over my life! Whatever the situation just know that "this to shall pass" and allow the Creator to help u See It Through and Never, Never Give Up!
8/13/2010
Fabulous Friday! The brotha is up in thought and prayer! Headed to dialysis at the crack of dawn! Then off to coach football with the youngin's! A full day indeed...brotha is glad he is good n busy!!! TGIF!!!
Ps 112 NIV
8/12/2010
Tremendous Thursday! The power of the Almighty is very present in the brothas' life... I'm on the move! Ex 15:2, Ps 27:1, Isaiah 41:10
8/11/2010
Wonderful Wednesday! Peace and success to all who will be fasting during the month of Ramadan! Regardless if your a Jew, Christian, or Muslim fasting is a beautiful way to be come one with self and The Creator. To God be the Glory!
Scriptural Footnotes:
“Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. -Matt 6:16-18 NKJV
"O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may guard against evil." Holy Qur'an 2:183
Abraham/Ibrahim, Moshe/Moses, Yeshua/Isa/Jesus, and Muhmmad Ibn Abdullah (PBUT).... If these great men were on this stage today not one of would be at variance with the other--they all belonged to the same school..." -HMLF
8/10/2010
Tremendous Tuesday! The brotha is keepin' it movin' in a positive n productive direction. The brotha is really embracing this servant leadership concept. But dealing with the people is more than full time job! :-) God is Great!
8/9/2010
Mindful Monday... Woke up feel'n good knowing that I am not perfect and that I make mistakes but I strive to be like and follow Yeshua/Isa/Jesus knowing that I must deny self daily and pick up my own cross! That's the goodness of Yah/Yahweh/Allah/Jah/Jehovah/God's Word, Mercy, and Grace which ultimately equals his Love for us! Check it I'm not some holier than thou type of dude but I recognize when the spirit is moving and all I can do is fall under submission and keep it 100 (as the kids say) with God's movement in my life! Study Ps 34:1 NKJV
That's why we strive here on earth regardless of our heavenly reward that is awaiting us up above. There is still work to do on this earth that we as believers must not neglect!
Let me add on more... so here's the beauty of Mary ska Our Lady of Mt. Carmel aka Mary/Marium the Holy Mother (PBUH) and the prayer of Hail Mary and why at the end of the prayer we ask her to pray for us that I didn't realize while in theology class at MC--something that I thought was just a learned tradition in Catholicism. "Any woman who goes through the unpleasant pain of child birth in God's eyes is regarded as the most sacred of all his creations." Why? Because through the womb of a woman the prayers of the righteous for deliverance are answered. Which is why Jesus' birth was most important and any birth that answers the cry of the righteous for deliverance from the ills and wiles of this world is important. This is why souls like MLK Jr., Malcolm X, Ghandi, Mother Teresa, etc. have come on the scene because they all were and continue to be great examples of deliverance. Whether the world fully agreed with their stance or not they all are in the line of Jesus because the rulers of his day didn't fully agree with him either. They were spiritual warriors! Some of us may not want to admit it but we have some among us now who we know are anointed by the Almighty but because they buck the system and don't follow tradition we tend to shy away from them out of fear. Ok! I won't go any further! I'm off the soapbox for now! :-)-Bro. Lamon
Don't Believe the Hype!!!
I have been an observer and admirer of the Hon. Minister Louis Farrakhan and the Nation of Islam for over 20 years now. Although, I am not a registered member of the Nation, I have great regard for what the Nation has meant to the Black community. Regardless of whether one agrees totally with the Nation's programmatic methods they have a seat at the table of Black and American life in general. And they should not be left out of the equation when it comes to examining various societal issues in America and abroad. Chuck D of Public Enemy said it best "Don't tell me that you understand until you hear the man..."
"The education of this world is a failure because it has not produced the man that God desires." -Min. Farrakhan (Excerpt from lecture The New Man Aug 2010)
"We talk Christ like the grocery store talks apples...you can't make mockery of Him..." "We're afraid to walk with Jesus because we're afraid to go through what he had to go through." -HMLF
The moment we accept praise for what God has done we start losing the power and the effect from what was done..." -HMLF
The only way to steadily march upward is to keep arrogance out of the process... Prayer sets the attitude & state of mind that's needed for advancement. Your SELF is great but did you create your SELF? -HMLF
"If the life force is resurrected and cleared of debris--then the people can focus on what is right..." -HMLF
"All men have sinned...so all men and women are in a state of death..." -HMLF
Wonderful Wednesday!
It's a wonderful day to be alive and be in the land of the living! What is a friend? A person you know well and regard with affection and trust; A person with whom one is allied in a struggle or cause; a comrade. That's the type of friendship Abraham and Jesus shared with our Father. They laid down their life for God! That's powerful! Will you lay down your life for your friend like these servants of our Father did? They were in total submission to God. No wonder my grandmother's use to say What a friend we have in Jesus! Study John 15:12-17 NIV, Ps 40:8 NIV, James 2:23-24, Holy Quran 3:67
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