Embodying the Good News as Justice

The Starting Point

The setting or place that theology is found in determines what God is doing and how God is involved in the affairs of God’s people.  As liberation theologian James Cone says "Each theology is characterized by its struggle against the dominance of Europe and North America and by its creative attempt to fashion a perspective on the gospel that arises out of the people's struggle to liberate themselves from oppression."  In this time of unparalleled injustice throughout the globe that oppresses, subjugates, and appropriates human life, responses are required that speak life and seek justice in these matters are important for the well-being of human family.  This fact holds true for those who profess a particular religious faith and those who do not, because justice is a common human need for all—no matter if they believe in God or not.  Moreover, this fact is extremely important for those who reside in the urban centers of these United States who experience the injustice of excessive police brutality, food deserts, economic disenfranchisement, and violence on a daily bases.  These folk, who reside in these centers are predominately African American, Latino/Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islanders.  From New York to Chicago down to Atlanta and New Orleans and out to Los Angeles and Oakland folk from these communities are calling for a response.  A response that gives them the good news.

                  The Revelatory Relevant Good News

From a biblical perspective and from the teachings of Jesus, justice is the response of God for all of God's people who are victims of injustice (evil).  The proverbial writer says "When justice is done, it is a joy to the righteous, but dismay to evildoers" (Proverbs 21:15).  This is why African Americans exclaim that "Black Lives Matter," as a response to the unwarranted killing of Black men by law enforcement throughout the country.  God's justice tells us that God is aware of the injustices that cause death and distress to Black life.  And, more importantly, that God is ready to act on behalf of Black lives.  In this context, as Latin American liberation theologian Pablo Richard asserts "God's Word becomes a source of hope and life," as it always has been for African Americans since their involuntary arrival on eastern shores of the United States.  And, even though their evangelization was achieved by unjustifiable means, “the Word of God has been a source for survival and resistance for Black people, because it offered them "an inspiration for alternatives and utopias" that gave them hope.  A liberative evangelism or liberative sharing of God's good news tells Black men and women who face insurmountable brutality by law enforcement that Black Lives Matter because the good news," as Cone says "is also a prophetic word about the righteousness of God that must be spoke in clear, strong, and uncompromising language."  In that, the good news speaks the truth to power and proclaims justice wherever injustice shows its despicable face.  Moreover, the gospel "demands that I (we) take a side, and that side is always the side of the oppressed," as Dr. Keith A. Burton says.

                                                       God's justice tells us that God is with us. 

The Good News Addresses the Issue

As a prophetic word about God's justice for African Americans who face extreme police violence, Jesus says very cogently through his recitation of the Prophet Isaiah's words in the Lukan text "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor" (Luke 4: 18-19).  In these prophetic words, Jesus announces God's justice. As evangelistic servants and witnesses of God's word, we are (I am) called to do the same in this time of gross police brutality against Black men and women.  Dr. Mark Teasdale asserts "The Incarnation of Jesus is the promise of God to meet people in every time and place with the fullness of salvation."  Therefore, the evangelistic practices that would breathe life into this horrid matter are found in the model of practice called R.A.P.I.D. that was formulated by D.A. Horton.

Restore Dignity to Blacks in the United States who are impact by police brutality and all forms of injustice.

Affirm the ethnic identity of Black Christians.

Promote "All" Black Lives Matter.

Institute Ethnic Conciliation that build relationships with Christians of all ethnicities.

Develop Biblical Guardrails for Co-Belligerency with like-minded believers, believers who may differ, and nod-believers that embody stewardship and missiological motives that advocate for justice. 

Evangelism as justice opens the doors of the sanctuary to people who lives have been deemed to be killed.  Evangelism as justice embodies the missional work of Jesus, as the transformational work of God that identifies God's presence; and moreover that tells Black men and women, God is on your side.  In essence, sharing the good news is a matter of awareness, not only about scripture and Jesus, but also about being aware of the context.  Thus, being aware of the context (especially where injustice is the order of the day) gives us the ability to share God's good news to victims of injustice, and witness to God's intervention in human matters.

As the God of Justice, God is calling the evangelistic community to practice a mode of evangelism that embodies the good news.  As witnesses of what God does in the life of Jesus and movement of the Holy Spirit, the church has been called to evangelize God's people not solely for conversion or church membership, "but also for the undertaking of action to release and to liberate" Black victims of police brutality and all forms of injustice.  And, when followers of Christ undertake liberative action, evangelism becomes a practice of restoration, in that, we become "repairers of the breach," sharing the the good news that proclaims Black Lives Matter because God is the God of Justice.  

CLICK THE LINK TO HEAR Pastor's Speak on why Black Lives Matter 

Your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt;

you shall raise up the foundations of many generations;

you shall be called the repairer of the breach,

the restorer of streets to live in. ~Isaiah 58:12

Bibliography 

Cone, James H. “Evangelization and Politics: A Black Perspective.” Black Theology: A

Documentary History, volume two: 1980-1992. eds. James H. Cone and Gayraud

S. Wilmore. Maryknoll: Orbis, 1993. ISBN 0-883344-773-8.

Evangelism Online, Twitter Feed. https://twitter.com/EvangelismOnlin

Horton, D.A. Viewing Black Lives Matter, Part 4: D.A. Hortin looks at Black Lives Matter missiologically.  http://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2016/february/viewing-black-lives-matter-part-4-da-horton.html

New Revised Standard Version.

Richard, Pablo. Reading the Apocalypse: Resistance, Hope, and Liberation in Central America in David Rhoads. From Every People and Nation. Kindle Edition, 2010.

Thompson, Christopher C. Black Lives Matter: SDA Pastors and leaders speak and explain why #BlackLivesMatter and what the church can do to continue to affirm and protect our young black males.  http://www.pastorsleadership.org/videos/black-lives-matter/

It's Only a Test

If you are in a difficult time in your life please trust and believe that The Creator "got chu." Don't fear what comes to test or try you, God knew it would come. Your and my duty under trial is to trust and believe without fear and cowardice. The Scripture says to us:

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you…” (1 Peter 4.12). Chambers says "If we do think the things we encounter are strange, it is because we are fearful and cowardly." The prophet Isaiah said, God said, "So, do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious (righteous) right hand" (41:10).

There's an oft repeated prayer by the Muslims that goes: "I seek refuge in Allah (God) from anxiety and grief, from the lack of strength and laziness, from cowardice and niggardliness. From being overpowered by debt and the oppression of men. Suffice me with what is lawful and keep me away from what is prohibited. And with your grace make me free from want of what is beside you." In times of trial or distress remember that it is only a test; and that God has given you and put inside you all you need to pass it. -Peace, Amen, Ameen, Ase

The Normalization of Sexual Orientation

The onslaught of media attention over one's sexual preference has hit a level of polarization that makes me wonder.  Why is the choice of one's sexual orientation a big to do?  Is there an agenda behind it?  Of course, I have some understanding of why, and we can run the issue from end zone to end zone.  That is not my undertaking here.   I believe it is one's right to have a preference, and I'm not opposed to that. But, to presuppose that being gay is the new Black, is extreme.  Notably, the LGBTQ community has experienced suppression in various forms, but not to the level of the Black community.  As one of my colleagues said, "There is no comparison."

African American Men wearing "Gay is the new Black" T-Shirt

If I decide to come out like radio host Rickey Smiley as "heterosexual."  Will that make the news or be written off as mere comedy?  When one decides to "come out" such as former pro athlete Michael Sam it truly is their decision, and everyone doesn't need to know.  It's the individual's business and responsibility to be comfortable with the skin their in--not mine, or anyone else's.  I am not an advocate of homophobia, and anyone who chooses to harbor ill feelings against those in the LGBTQ community must stand down.  Constructive honest dialog is the order of the day, and this is the approach I choose to take.

Theologically speaking, transgression is transgression, and the human family shares a common bond when it comes to wrong doing.  The question was raised in my theology class last night: Is being gay the sin or is the sexual act the sin?  There are strong arguments on both sides.  I don't believe being gay in "name" or "title" is a sin because gay, lesbian, etc. is one's sexual preference or orientation--not the sexual act.  According to the standard that the scriptures set biblically and quranically--the "sex act" is the sin.  Therefore, one cannot judge or condemn the LGBTQ community based on a "title."  Many hear the name or title, and automatically think sin.  At the end of the day, we all will have to present ourselves before God as one approved, and give account of our record.

Former Pro Football Player Michael Sam

The reality is, we are in a media age that puts the public into dissemination overload.  The attempt to "normalize" sexual preference and orientation makes me question the agenda.  

Do those in the LGBTQ community deserve the universal and inalienable human rights given to others?  Absolutely!  But, to normalize the obstacles the community endures as having something in common to the plight of the Black struggle is far from the crux of the matter.  Gay, being deemed as the new Black has become the new slogan... But, that is very offensive, misleading, and problematic on many levels, as being gay is not a badge of racial pride, especially when one thoroughly examines what it means to be Black and gay.  In fact, in many cases Black folk who are a part of the LGBTQ community have been alienated and marginalized because of their race, and not their sexuality.  *Originally written Feb 2014, Updated Feb 2016.

Further reading to consider:

‘No Blacks’ Is Not a Sexual Preference. It’s Racism http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/09/09/no-blacks-is-not-a-sexual-preference-it-s-racism.html

The People’s District: 5 Reasons Gay is Not the New Black

http://forthdistrict.com/5-reasons-gay-is-not-the-new-black/

Are Gay Men More Racist Than Straight Men?

http://new.www.huffingtonpost.com/mike-alvear/are-gay-men-more-racist-t_b_6984072.html

RACISM IN THE GAY COMMUNITY AND HOMOPHOBIA IN THE BLACK

COMMUNITY: NEGOTIATING THE GAY BLACK MALE EXPERIENCE

https://theses.lib.vt.edu/theses/available/etd-05222008-112356/unrestricted/ClarenceEBrownIII2008Thesis.pdf

‘You’re Really Nice, but I Don’t Date Black Guys’: Racism or Preference? (VIDEO)

http://new.www.huffingtonpost.com/nathan-manske/youre-really-sweet-im-just-not-into-black-guys-racism-or-preference_b_6401436.html

Unity Among...

The reason I believe in unity among the various faith traditions especially those of the three Abrahamic Faiths is because Satan, the Devil, Shaitan, Beelzebub, the Evil One, etc. has the whole world of religion blinded like the Sons of God in the book of Job (who didn't even know Satan had come with them). This is all because of fervent arguments over doctrines and dogmas that keep our attention off of him (our common and open enemy) that prevent us from uniting to destroy this world of evil along with the Satanic mind that purveys in it. So, if you are person who loves truth that stands against the wiles of Satan (the Evil One), then it shouldn't matter what you call yourself or (I call myself) in terms of a religious title. ~Bro. Lamon

Unity Pendant created by Dr. Steven McSwain

What would America have been like if Dr. King and Elijah Muhammad, if the Civil Rights Movement and the Nationalist Movement saw the common ground and each of us worked together for the common cause, which is the TOTAL LIBERATION of our people? -Hon. Min. Louis Farrakhan #TheTime pt. 23 http://youtu.be/6Z2M6o18_UM

Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad & Reverend Dr. Martin L. King Jr.

What Would America and The World look like if religions & people of Good will saw the common enemy of us alike, and each of us work(ed) together for a common cause, which is to destroy Satan's world and establish God's Kingdom on Earth? -The Brotha #Peace #Unity #Interfaith

Reverend Dr. Martin L. King Jr. and Minister Malcolm X (El Hajj Malik Shabazz )

Sowing A Seed: Tithing, Giving, & Charity

Check out how the Torah, Gospel, & Qur'an are bearing witness to one another in regards to Tithing, Giving, & Charity... These scriptures fell on my heart this morning thought I'd share... *Many people look at Sowing A Seed solely as a monetary thing. God knew that not only should we spend in His way monetarily, but spend in His way with integrity and honesty--by pouring into and serving others. God desires that we give generously of ourselves also (our time and service)--not just our money! God desires that we don't withhold what He has poured, is pouring, and will pour into us, for our service to Him and His people. We have been chosen to be Servant Leaders, not "Chump Leaders" or "Lip-Servers," but to be "Drum Majors," for justice, peace, & righteousness. This is why we are out front not for our sake, but for God's salvation, mercy, and grace working in and through us for the benefit of not only ourselves but more importantly others! In my humble estimation, that is the greatest example of a "Cheerful Giver," Jesus The Messiah was that kind of giver; He asked us "Will you lay down your life for the sheep, or will you run when the wolf comes?" Sow you seeds in good work, and surely you will "Super-Abound!" -Peace Be With You, Bro. Lamon

*Original written 2/9/2013
*Updated 6/8/2013

A friend asked me a question do we tithe from our gross pay or net pay?

My response was growth, but more importantly tithe from your heart. It's not about a % with God.

Note: Scripture makes a case for both, but it depends on how one interprets it in Deuteronomy. Dave Ramsey of Financial Peace University says it this way "It (Deuteronomy) says to tithe on your net increase. If you think about an agrarian culture where that was written, if you had a flock of sheep and one was killed by a wolf but you had 11 new lambs, then you had an increase of 10. You would tithe on that. You can make a really good case for it biblically either way. I'm not going to argue about it. It doesn't matter. Just give and be a giver. It's about changing your spirit anyway."

Scriptural Study:

Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to. -Duet15:10 NIV

I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity. All these things have I given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you. -1 Chr 29:17 NIV

A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.-Proverbs 11:25 NIV

But this, “Whoever sows frugally also reaps frugally, and whoever sows with bounty shall reap with bounty”; Every man according to what he is in his mind and not according to grief or of compulsion, for God loves the joyful giver. But God is able to multiply every favor toward you that you may always have whatever is sufficient for you in all things and that you may super abound in every good work, According to what is written: “He has dispersed and he has given to the poor, and his righteousness stands for eternity.” But he who gives seed to the sower and bread for food, he shall give and multiply your seed and increase the fruit of your righteousness, That you may be enriched in all things with the entire right of an heir- that which perfects thanksgiving to God by us. -2 Cor 9:6-10 Aramaic Bible in Plain English

And spend in the way of Allah (God) and cast not yourselves to perdition with your own hands, and do good (to others); surely Allah (God) loves the doers of good. -Holy Qur'an 2:195

They ask you as to what they should spend. Say: Whatever wealth you spend, it is for the parents and the near of kin and the orphans and the needy and the wayfarer, and whatever good you do, Allah (God) surely knows it. -2:215

The parable of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah (God) is as the parable of a grain growing seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. And Allah (God) multiplies (further) for whom He pleases. And Allah (God) is Ample-giving, Knowing. (As for) those who spend their property in the way of Allah (God), then do not follow up what they have spent with reproach or injury, they shall have their reward from their Lord, and they shall have no fear nor shall they grieve. -2:261-262

Your faith is... Do We really understand what faith is?

Your Faith is...

In all of the monotheistic religions, faith is the source of all belief in God's word and promise to those whom believe in Him. From a Biblical perspective we understand that faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things, which are seen, were not made of things, which are visible. (Heb 11:1-3 NKJV). Most of us live our lives based on the above scripture; it is the substance of our trust (hope) in what faith truly means to us. One's faith can be the lone catalyst that produces understanding, courage, knowledge and vision, which are the core components of faith that keep us on the straight path towards victory!

Japanese Symbol for "Faith" Kanji

However, faith that does not have definitive understanding, courage, knowledge and vision is forever fading and has no backbone. For example, the required core components of faith are explained throughout scripture. First off, we need an “understanding” of our faith. Having an “understanding” of our faith allows us to stand on the word of God in that we believe that He will do everything that He said He'd do for us! Furthermore, our “understanding” of our faith produces “hope” and the definition of “hope” is a belief in a positive outcome related to events and circumstances in one's life. Hope is a feeling that something desired might happen, when the outlook may or may not warrant it. (Farlex Free Dictionary)

"Pistis” root word is the Greek is faith, which also means to come to trust or believe. For man to move forward he must believe and trust that the vision he has comes from God, thus allowing him to move forward it complete faith without hesitation. “Faith that moves mountains is first of all focused on God. The objective of your faith is God. 

Larry Poncho Brown "Window of Faith"

The objective of your faith is whatever mountain you are dealing with. However, without faith it is impossible to please God." (Salas, T June 2010).  This is “such a powerful description of what 'courage' looks like. With it we lay hold to eternal life, we overcome, we become more Christ like. Faith is the catalyst for apprehending the intangible. I always like a man with vision. A man or woman with vision means that they are not limited to what they see in the natural but they reach for what is in the eternal realm of the Spirit and pull it into NOW! I trust God and I know something about Him, He is faithful. Having faith in the originator of faith can only produce a positive result..." (Seaton, J June 2010)

As we journey along the path of life it is wise that we surround ourselves with people that have a spiritual backbone. Because those are type of Believers that will never leave you on the side of the road like the traveler whom was hit on his head while on the pathway from Jerusalem to Jericho. Those are type of Believers you will want with you in a dark alley. This is the kind of faith that Yeshua (Jesus) displayed during his time among people of his day. The reason why we honor and love him so today is because he was the greatest example of what “faith,” truly is. Simply put one can say Christ’s “faith” was very courageous and exemplary especially when we study the scripture and learn of the trials and tribulations that tested his “faith” daily.

Most of us have heard the saying "Without vision there is no progress,” however many of us tend to forget that the above saying was coined from Biblical text. In the book of Hosea 4:6, it says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for me; because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children” and Proverbs 29:18, it says, "Where there is no vision the people perish; but he who keeps the law blessed is he." When one has a vision they are able to proceed forward in making progress of being a good steward of faith.

The above paragraph makes a great segue into another component required on the faith journey and that is "knowledge." What is "knowledge" according to the Farlex free dictionary; knowledge is the state or fact of knowing. Paraphrasing Min. Louis Farrakhan "Knowledge compliments faith... In other words what good is faith if one doesn't have the knowledge to back it up." Moreover, faith can therefore be gained through reflection and the acquisition of knowledge, and not by blind and irrational commitment.

The Holy Qur’an lines up with the Biblical teachings of faith as it states true faith is that which is based on knowledge and supported by argument. Any belief that is not based and supported is considered by the Qur'an to be mere caprice and whim, which a thinking person must avoid. (Sheikh Idris, J,). Jesus taught: “If the blind lead the blind both fall in the ditch." When our faith is definitive in understanding, courage, knowledge and vision in it will never allow us to be impulsive and cowardly followers of Almighty God! When we stand on the truth of His word--we are unapologetic and unwavering in our stance against the wiles of opposition towards His word! So, the knowledge and understanding that we have in God supports our faith, which builds our courage and grows our vision in what has been promised. 

Your faith is the protector of your destiny this is how we are able to truly acknowledge God's word when it says, " For we walk by faith and not by sight." (2Cor 5:7 KJV). “And but my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him." (Heb 10: 38 NIV). "Faith is deeply and firmly implanted in human nature in that, it is not like a plant which has sprouted from dung which has no root and a slight calamity can uproot it like the word of disbelief about which can be uprooted from the very surface of the earth; it has no stability” (Sheikh Idris, J, Pillars of Faith, www.islamm.com, Holy Qur’an 14:26).

"A person with a good experience is never at the mercy of a person with a good argument. You have an experience that is building a foundation that cannot be moved. And it will also be a place for others to build on--I know you can't have faith unless you're being challenged. So the courage you're exhibiting let's me know that it is only matter of time." (Seaton, J June 2010). Although we may not have the physical sight to see what is in store for us God gives us the knowledge and understanding, which produces the hope that builds our courage that provides us with a vision for us to truly see the spiritual realm of His word and promise. Furthermore, this is why we are able to bear witness to the Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) and all the prophets that have come from Abraham to Muhammad. Because their faith ultimately was the protector of there destines!

Life is challenging and seemingly impossible in itself and without faith it is even more perplexing. We cannot expect to proceed forward with any certainty unless definitive understanding, courage, knowledge and vision are at the forefront, which are the tools given to us by our faith that causes us to move forward. It is our faith that allows us to soar high and run towards our personal pursuits when we may have our doubts and others deem us unwise. Furthermore, we are never in total chaos or loss when we have faith to move us forth during our dark moments. It is our straight path to victory!

More next time God Willing...

Peace & Blessings,


Bro. Lamon -Chairman Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings


Scriptural and Literary support:

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 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,[a] against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ep 6:10-20 NKJV)

There is no compulsion in religion — the right way is indeed clearly distinct from error. So whoever disbelieves in the devil and believes in Allah (God), he indeed lays hold on the firmest handle which shall never break. And Allah (God) is Hearing, Knowing. (Surah 2:256 MMA)

Copyright June 2010 The Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings-Revised August 2011

Are You Strong Enough? If so, then Sing aloud...

Strength Sunday!  Most of us throughout our lives have heard the sayings "there's nothing new up under the sun" and "God doesn't put more on you than you can handle."  But how many of us know that those quotes are paraphrased from biblical scriptures (Ecc 1:9, 1 Cor 10:13).  I know for myself that I don't always associate those quotes with the Bible.  But nonetheless, what those two quotes represent for me is; as human beings life will always present us with "positives and negatives," "hi's and low's," "up's and down's" or "peaks and valleys," question is "how do we respond those circumstances when life presents them to us.

Today, we know we live in a world that has many facets to it and that it encompasses a multitude of elements. Nonetheless, when we think about how one survives in a world like this we automatically think of "strength." In life, when we see those among us with great physical and mental strength like the Incredibile Hulk or motivational guru Tony Robbins.  We see that person as extraordinary and in many cases they are!  However, we don't always see the circumstances that may have gotten them there and how they responded to those circumstances. Therefore, life's "up's and down's" and how we respond to them ultimately will shape the direction of our lives. Furthermore, there is a direct correlation between life and its circumstances and one's reaction to those circumstances.  In other words, you can't live life with out going through something! And as my mother use to say "just keep livin" and "everybody's got a turn."  WOW!  I truly understand what she was saying now!

Possessing great physical and mental strength is an extraordinary asset for one to have no doubt.  Moreover, it is not easily obtained, it is usually gained through much experience that brings about both joy and pain.  Hence the R&B soul classic "Joy and Pain," by Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. In life truth is, we must expect to go through something in order to get to where we are going to.  Which means we must be thoroughly prepared to face the circumstances of life so that we can be successful.  Now, you and I both know that this is easier said than done for most of us. But in my humble opinion this is where we as human beings have to step out of the physical and mental realm of "strength" and into the spiritual realm of "strength, or as some would say the "Supernatural.".

Having said that let me just say, possessing great physical and mental strength coupled with God's strength becomes are our ultimate ally (To place in a friendly association, as by treaty; To unite or connect in a personal relationship, as in friendship or marriage) against the adversaries of this world.  When truly understanding what Daivd the Psalmist wrote that "Ye are gods, and all of you are children of the Most High" (Psalm 82:6).  We learn that God has declared that we are "little gods" and that we have extradordinary "strength" over the "hi's and low's" of this world when we are thoroughly prepared (James 1:2-4,12) and united with Him!

God will not allow a Believer to be tempted beyond what he or she can bear or handle and it does not suggest that He is the source of the temptation or trial either.  (James 1:13) says, "Don't blame God when you are tempted! God cannot be tempted by evil, and he doesn't use evil to tempt others." So God does not bring problems on us.  He is not the source of the trials we may face, but He does allow us to be tried, and as the scriptures explain, "He will help us, if we rely on Him."

So with that let us remember to "Sing aloud unto God our strength; make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob." (Psalm 81:1 21KJV)

Scriptural Support

Sing aloud unto God our strength; make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob. -Psalm 81:1 21KJV

I have said, "Ye are gods, and all of you are children of the Most High." -Psalm 82:6 21KJV

Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in your law, `I said "Ye are gods"'? -John 10:34 21KJV

What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. -Ecc 1:9 NIV

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. -1 Cor 10:13

What then shall we say of these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay anything to the charge against God's elect? It is God who justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ who died, yea rather, who is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword. As it is written: "For Thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter." Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. -Romans 8:31-39 21KJV

Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world. -1 John 4:4 21KJV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. -James 1:2-4 NIV

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. -James 1:12-14 NIV

Allah does not impose upon any soul a duty but to the extent of its ability; for it is (the benefit of) what it has earned and upon it (the evil of) what it has wrought: Our Lord! do not punish us if we forget or make a mistake; Our Lord! do not lay on us a burden as Thou didst lay on those before us, Our Lord do not impose upon us that which we have not the strength to bear; and pardon us and grant us protection and have mercy on us, Thou art our Patron, so help us against the unbelieving people. -Holy Quran 2:286

The Lord of Mighty Power has taught him, The Lord of Strength; so he attained completion, -Holy Quran 53:5-6

Blessed is He in Whose hand is the kingdom, and He has power over all things, Who created death and life that He may try you -- which of you is best in deeds; and He is the Mighty, the Forgiving, -Holy Quran 67:1-2

Therefore endure with a goodly patience. -Holy Quran 70:5