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

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

A Woman's Dress is Her Virtuousness: What Do You Have On?

Lady in Tight Dress

Nation of Islam Women

Many of us stare at Muslim sisters or Catholic nuns whom wear head coverings known as a (veil, hijab, jilbab, khimar, or habits) especially when it's 90 degrees out side like "Why? Sister, Why?," not realizing that women wearing head coverings on their heads or clothing that does not reveal all their goods was practiced by ancient African and other Eastern civilizations.  The way a woman dressed back in the day was seen as scared and virtuous, and it reflected her divine nature.  She wasn't rockin' booty shorts and painted on dresses (know don't take me for being holier than thou because I like most men enjoy seeing an attractive woman walking down the street), but the way some women and in particular my sisters dress has gone too damn far, you might as well be naked!  Ladies, I am not try to tell you how to dress or even suggesting that you be a nun or MGT, but what I am doing is giving you a picture of an expression of virtuousness that suggests your Godly worth.  My thing is, aren't you sexually objectified enough in this world?  

Fellas: I say no matter if a sister refers to herself as a "Bad Bitch," or doesn't have a clue of her value, we as men must still respect her.  Now, I know your saying "Bruh, how can I if she's puttin' herself out there like that," and how could she say we're being misogynistic?"  My answer is simple: See the Goddess in her.

As I digress... I had a "Soap Box" moment :-)

Here's where I was going...

Kenyan Nuns

Provocatively Tasteful or Not?

Most Christians do not know that women covering their hair at service was also a common practice within Christianity.  Today, it is more commonly known for being practiced by Muslim women (though not a requirement for women to wear "hijab" in the Qur'an per se; the practiced is upheld based on doctrinal belief from the Hadith of Sahih Bukhari), Catholic nuns, and some Orthodox Jewish traditions.  However, hair covering in the early church was the standard at one time for women, and still is today by some Judeo-Christian traditions.  Women were expected to cover their hair with a large scarf (or shash) while in church, according to (1 Cor 11:2-16).  Note: The narrative given by Paul on women covering their hair is viewed by some as a part of his later diatribe in (1 Cor 14:34) that cogently suggests that women are to remain silent in the church, as form of submissiveness, which I do not particular agree with.  The idea of women covering up here, I contend was and is symbolic of their divine virtuousness that should be honored, cherished,
and respected by men.

"Nuff Said!"

Moreover, in Orthodox synagogues, especially in the Ethiopian church men and women sat separately, with men on the left and women on the right (when facing the altar)--very similar to what you have seen for instance, if you've ever visited Mosque Maryam in Chicago.  Sisters covering their hair and sitting separately from the Brothers in the sanctuary is common among some Oriental Orthodox, Eastern Orthodox, (prior to the 60's) with Catholics, and with many conservative Protestants (i.e. Adventist churches).  This is an interesting interwoven parallel between the three Abrahamic faith traditions.  So, next time you see a sister covered don't stare in astonishment, but acknowledge that she is upholding her faith and conviction not because she is restricted or weak, but because she is striving to exemplify virtuousness through her expression of her Godly worth.  ~Peace Be With You, Bro. Lamon

Scriptural Study:

Paul speaking On Covering the Head in Worship (1 Cor 11:2-16 NIV)

Gabrielle Union  with Style  & Class

I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the traditions just as I passed them on to you. But I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man,a and the head of Christ is God. Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved. For if a woman does not cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut off; but if it is a disgrace for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, then she should cover her head.

A man ought not to cover his head,b since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. For man did not come from woman, but woman from man; neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. It is for this reason that a woman ought to have authority over her own head, because of the angels. Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God.

Judge for yourselves: Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? Does not the very nature of things teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, but that if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering. If anyone wants to be contentious about this, we have no other practice—nor do the churches of God.

O children of Adam, We haveindeed sent down to you clothing tocover your shame, and (clothing) forbeauty; and clothing that guardsagainst evil — that is the best. This is of the messages of Allah (God) that theymay be mindful. ~Surah 7:26 (Maulana Muhammad Ali Translation)

O Prophet, tell thy wives and thydaughters and the women of believersto let down upon them their over-garments. This is more proper, so thatthey may be known, and not be giventrouble. And Allah (God) is ever Forgiving, Merciful. ~Surah 33:59 (Maulana Muhammad Ali Translation)

“O Prophet! Tell thy wives and thy daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks close around them. that will be better, so that they may be recognized and not annoyed. Allah is ever forgiving, merciful…” (Surah 33:59 from A. Yusef Ali’s translation of the Qur’an; other versions translate the original Arabic as “veils” where Ali uses “cloaks”).  ~Source: http://postcolonialstudies.emory.edu/women-islam-and-hijab/

Hadiths 

“My Lord agreed with me (‘Umar) in three things … (2) And as regards the veiling of women, I said ‘O Allah’s Apostle! I wish you ordered your wives to cover themselves from the men because good and bad ones talk to them.’ So the verse of the veiling of the women was revealed” (Bukhari, v1, bk 8, sunnah 395). ~Source: http://postcolonialstudies.emory.edu/women-islam-and-hijab/

"Ayesha (rad.i-Allahu `anha) reported that Asma’ the daughter of Abu Bakr (rad.i-Allahu `anhu) came to the Messenger of Allah  while wearing thin clothing. He approached her and said: 'O Asma’! When a girl reaches the menstrual age, it is not proper that anything should remain exposed except this and this. He pointed to the face and hands." [Abu Dawud]

Ibn Qudama in al-Mughni (1:349) explained that showing the face and hands are a specific dispensation within the general meaning of the hadith "All of the woman’s body is considered her nakedness [to those outside the mahram relationship or her husband]." (al-mar'atu `awra)

`Ayesha (rad.i-Allahu `anha) said: "I used to enter the room where the Messenger of Allah  and my father (Abu Bakr) were later buried in without having my garment on me, saying it is only my husband and my father. But when 'Umar ibn Al-Khattab (rad.i-Allahu `anh) was later buried in (the same place), I did not enter the room except that I had my garment on being shy from 'Umar."

Do You Have Focused Eyes?

"When you keep your eyes on God and His Christ,

everything will come into focus." -The Brotha

Focused Eyes

 If we focus on God and His Christ, we will plow a straight path and accomplish God's purpose in our lives. When you keep your eyes on God and His Christ, everything will come into focus. In the life of the Believer, we focus on Christ because he was the best example and when we do so, it allows us to be true disciples (followers) of Jesus Christ.  When we do this we become more like the Master.  In fact Christ never taught us to worship him but he did teach us to follow him.  Of course he is worthy of praise and honor because of what he did for us while he was on the scene and when he left us to be with The Father.  However praise and honor does not denote worship, an act of error in which many of us fall into because we have not been properly taught.  We have been primarily taught to worship Jesus versus solely praise and honor him.  By worshiping him, it prevents us from completely focusing on God as the source and sort of down plays God's role in the entire process.   Furthermore it represses us to some degree from being able to completely witness to Jesus' ultimate power and purpose--which came by God's permission.  We focus and anguish over the circumstances he faced and experienced thus the reasons and lessons of those circumstances. 

Follow The Leader

 Furthermore, as true followers of God and His Christ we understand that there is no such thing as chance or accidental circumstances whether challenging or positive.  "All your circumstances are in the hand of God, and therefore you don’t ever have to think they are unnatural or unique."   If God brings you to it, it is for a reason(s) and lesson(s).   Moreover it is our duty to be witnesses to what God is doing in our lives combined with learning to praise and give thanks to Him "In The Middle of It," and not agonize over what we are up against.  We must realize and understand that it is only a test or trail that we are facing and experiencing.   We must then keep our eyes focused on the source which is God.  By doing such, we recognize that the trial(s) and test(s) are necessary for our spiritual growth and development.  It develops our complete trust and frees us from stress and worry because we allow the Spirit of God to bear our burdens.  Through this process we develop a deeper spiritual discernment and we learn to get our of the way and let go and let God, do what he does.  I'm reminded of the old gospel tune "Jesus Can Work It Out," the reason Jesus can work it out is because he understood and practiced the art of focus within its proper context and purpose.  He focused on The Father like none other which allowed him to completely trust God and be free!  This is why he had and has a great effect on the world for over 2000 years.  Might I respectfully assert and suggest, If we understand The Christ in this light, we will began to erase the half trues we have been taught about him and his time among us over 2000 years ago.  We will become true and proper followers of The Christ, then and only then, will we become true fishermen of men, free the captives from oppression, care for the orphan, the widow, and the stranger, advocate for and feed the poor, heal the sick, speak truth to the powerful and change the world.  

Follow his Footsteps

May God continue to grow and develop us and give us deeper spiritual discernment and understanding.  Peace be unto you! Many Blessings! Thank God! Amen! -Selah 

-The Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings

"I am His beloved child, comforted in sad times and wise and strong in times of change.  There is nothing to fear from the events of my life, no outer condition is forever." -Joel Hicks

Scriptural and Literary Support:

and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills... -Exodus 3:31

Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you.  -Job 22:21

Teach me your way, LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors.  -Psalm 27:11

  

As the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, until he has mercy upon us.  -Psalm 123:2

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and He will make your paths straight. -Proverbs 3:5,6

Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding. -Jeremiah 3:15

Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. -Luke 2:47

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.  -Romans 8:26

We know that all things work together for good to those who love God . . . -Romans 8:28

And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. -Romans 13:11

So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding. -1 Corinthians 14:15 

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. -James 1:2-8

We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.  -1 John 5:20

Nay! were you witnesses when death visited Yaqoub (Jacob), when he said to his sons: What will you serve after me? They said: We will serve your God and the God of your fathers, Ibrahim (Abraham) and Ismail (Ishmael) and Ishaq (Isaac), one God only, and to Him do we submit.  -Surah 2:221

He it is Who has revealed the Book to you; some of its verses are decisive, they are the basis of the Book, and others are allegorical; then as for those in whose hearts there is perversity they follow the part of it which is allegorical, seeking to mislead and seeking to give it (their own) interpretation. but none knows its interpretation except Allah, and those who are firmly rooted in knowledge say: We believe in it, it is all from our Lord; and none do mind except those having understanding. -Surah 3:7

When Allah will say: O Isa (Jesus) son of Marium (Mary)! Remember My favor on you and on your mother, when I strengthened you I with the holy Spirit, you spoke to the people in the cradle and I when of old age, and when I taught you the Book and the wisdom and the Taurat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel); and when you determined out of clay a thing like the form of a bird by My permission, then you breathed into it and it became a bird by My permission, and you healed the blind and the leprous by My permission; and when you brought forth the dead by My permission; and when I withheld the children of Israel from you when you came to them with clear arguments, but those who disbelieved among them said: This is nothing but clear enchantment. -Surah 5:110

And when I revealed to the disciples, saying, Believe in Me and My apostle, they said: We believe and bear witness that we submit (ourselves). -Surah 5:111

When the disciples said: O Isa son of Marium! will your Lord consent to send down to us food from heaven? He said: Be careful of (your duty to) Allah if you are believers. -Surah 5:112

They said: We desire that we should eat of it and that our hearts should be at rest, and that we may know that you have indeed spoken the truth to us and that we may be of the witnesses to it. -Surah 5:113

O you who believe! do not take My enemy and your enemy for friends: would you offer them love while they deny what has come to you of the truth, driving out the Apostle and yourselves because you believe in Allah (God), your Lord? If you go forth struggling hard in My path and seeking My pleasure, would you manifest love to them? And I know what you conceal and what you manifest; and whoever of you does this, he indeed has gone astray from the straight path. -Surah 60:1

Notes from MLK Jr. "Letter from Birmingham Jail" by Dr. Charles Ess, Philosophy and Religion, Drury University

The Letter consciously appeals to both prophetic  religious impulses (that part of the Judeo-Christian tradition stressing liberation of the oppressed, as exemplified in the Exodus event and the subsequent ethos of care for "the widow, the orphan, and the stranger") and the rationalist/revolutionary  arguments for democratic rights and freedoms developed especially in the Enlightenment, and familiar to us from Locke and Jefferson. Dr. King makes this conjunction explicit towards the end of the Letter when he says

One day the South will know that when these disinherited children of God sat down at lunch counters, they were in reality standing up for what is best in the American dream and for the most sacred values in our Judaeo-Christian heritage, thereby bringing our nation back to those great wells of democracy which were dug deep by the founding fathers in their formulation of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.

"Somebody has to follow the Messiah, it is not just talking about him, it's not just about praising him, it's about walking behind him as true disciple..."  -Excerpt from Bro. HMin. Farrakhan remarks at Congwm Juila Carson's funeral service

Hard trails are necessary to establish truth. -Farrakhan

Truth & Widsdom : The Shock of the Hour, Katrina & Rita

"I don't serve some milquetoast God... He is a God of ultimate power." -Farrakhan

Cogitate this... Peeps all over the country brace as we get ready for another hurricane to hit... This time it's Rita (another sista)!!! But seriously, peeps have different opinions about why this devastation is happening--some say it's to get rid of evil, some say God is not happy w/ America, Kayne says "Bush don't like Black people." There are a number of factors that play a role in the reasoning of why but we as people have to be wise and seek truth when in doubt. In order to do this, we must carefully examine from an unadulterated historical, factual, and spiritual perspective in order to get answers. This is just a thought... What do you feel???

-L aka The Brotha

Chew on this spiritual perspective... I thought this was interesting!!!

***The element of surprise comes upon us when we are not prepared to deal with truth! Truth is the foundation of life as discipline has been said to be the foundation of wisdom. When we seek The Creator as we should without hesitance we will receive all that he has for us!!! The Creator has many attributes and we as believers whether of traditional or non-traditional faiths tend to focus on The Creator's non-threatening attributes (in which we should rightfully so), i.e., mercy, grace, or love... And forget about his attributes of wrath, anger, & destruction. Let us be wise and ponder what has been shared w/ us through scripture...

Then the LORD said, "My Spirit will not contend with man forever, for he is mortal; his days will be a hundred and twenty years."
Genesis 6:3 NIV

The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities his eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:18-20 NIV

Those who disbelieve -- it being alike to them whether thou warn them or warn them not -- they will not believe.
Surah (Chap) 2:6 Holy Quran

Comments on the blog:

T writes:

I've been tripping off all of the devastation that is going on in our own backyard for weeks now.. And the question does present itself- Why is this happening here??? On our soil?? The problem is we as Americans are so immune to things happening to us because we always see them when they occur halfway around the world.. I think that's why so many people felt either connected because they do have half a heart or they have people down there or they felt disconnected because they don't understand the magnitude of these occurrences and the effect they have on our country emotionally and fiscally for years to come..I think some people treated it like it was happening in another country. I had someone tell me "Why do you care about something that happened in some other state?" I had to brush it off because it was a young white male who obviously has no sense of the world around him and I can only blame his parents for his stupidity.

As I watched the situation unfold Down South, and I saw all of the things that occurred after the hurricane @ the Superdome and the Convention Center.. I was sick, frustrated, and down right pissed. I can't even tell you how many angry emails went out to these new stations for calling citizens "refugees" like they've never payed taxes in this country. But those responsible for things that could have been controlled will be dealt with in due time- on this planet or in the afterlife. And then you're left with the questions- many questions that we'll never know the true answer to because people are so clever and strategic at the blame game. At times like this, the only thing you can lean on is Faith.

As far as the spiritual aspect of the situation, I don't think that the "Powers that Be" would place anything on our doorsteps that we can't handle. I think every few years or decades, there has to be a spiritual shock-wave sent through our society so that people don't forget that no matter what your religious beliefs are, we do have a Creator and this time on earth will soon come to an end.. Be kind to your fellow man and take nothing for granted.


- Copyright Sept 2005 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 who 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.

"We are at WAR"

 The richest people on earth are those who invest their lives in God's way. -The Brotha

"Thee Lion of Judah will not sleep forever." -Unknown

 

We as Believers of the Abrahamic faiths and those of us that are righteous and moral people of the planet regardless of religious title, creed, color, race, sex, or gender have allowed this current system of things to overtake our "moral courage" and "moral aptitude," to say the least and have conceded with the trends and fads of our time.  We are too busy trying to be politically correct or not to offend versus having the moral grit to say "Thus said the Lord or simply say "That just ain't right!."  We must get rooted in God's Kingdom, we must get rooted back in moral righteousness and moral human decency, which is not of this current system of things. "We must get rid of the plague of the spirit of this religious age in which we live."  Also, we must get rid of the plague of the spirit of this age that allows us to tolerate behaviors and ways that are immoral and indecent in all of it's forms--things that we know that just do not sit well with The Creator or universal order of things.  The fiery biblical writer James said it best "don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God?  Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God."

The masses of the worlds peoples are crying out and the time has come--for we are truly at war to save ourselves and help usher in God's New World Order.  A New World Order of moral righteousness and moral human decency that all people can enjoy and thrive under.  Yes, as individual communities of race, creed, gender, sex and color we have similarities, differences and issues that are unique to our individual groups.  For example the mass incarceration of the proverbial Black male, aka "Predator," or as Michelle Alexander puts it being labeled with a "stigma of criminality," which means "young + black + male" has torn the African American community apart almost
single-handedly over the past twenty years.  If we as Black people do not realize the ills of society that plague us individually then we will never understand collectively how these things affect and effect the entire planet and universe as a whole.  Of course there are problems that we can only solve among ourselves but we must never loose site that we also share this planet and universe because there is a universal order of things.  So we must respect and obey its order.  Our role as the original and future standard bearers of this planet and universe must not come to fruition like those among us whom have ruled, controlled, dominated, and destroyed the planet and its peoples.  We must never repeat the shameful offensive history and invoke the same disgraceful, deceptive, and degrading tactics of control and domination.  In order to achieve the standard of living that is due we must take off the old man and put on the new man and be made new in the attitude of our minds which will change our condition overnight!

As the great apostle and Scriptural writer Paul said to the Romans "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."  We can sleep no longer as the time has come for us as a people to awaken because the current context of this world is out of order and we are the chosen one's whom can set it back on its proper course.  We must separate the ways of God and righteous morals and decent behaviors from the evil and corrupt ways of this world.  However we seem to get fearful of separation because it means we have to give up the things and ways we are accustom to.  We have gotten accustomed to or have integrated into the evil and corrupt ways of this world, not on the bases of making something whole or unified but under the guise of rule, control, and domination by those whom have been in power.  And although we as Black people are out of the bondage of chattel slavery and have made great strides as a people--the slavery of our minds, reigns today.  The time for integration through separation has come "Black people are the only group in America trying to force themselves on others.  Other ethnicities such as the Chinese, the Irish, the Mexicans, the Greeks, the Italians, the Koreans and the Jewish people all have enclaves where they live together and provide goods and services to one another and outsiders."  All of these groups are segregated among themselves but have integrated with the universe on the bases of brotherhood, sisterhood, family-hood and nationhood which has promoted a high standard of living and ensures their survival as a people.  They have earned and gained the respect, business acumen, and moral compass that all people should have and it is not looked upon as a bad or divisive, that they "Do for self," "Accept their Own" and "Be themselves!"

“We have got to do it ourselves and if we don't have the mind and the spirit to bring ourselves out of the condition that we are in, then we deserve whatever chastisement Allah (God) will bring upon us for our refusal to accept our responsibility.” -H.M. Farrakhan

"No One Has a Monopoly on God..."

In the universal realm of life the thought that God is one honors the beauty of His creation. It doesn't matter if you're from 119th St in Chicago or Avenue de France in France, whether you call Him Allah, Yahweh, Father, Abba, Jehovah, or Ishvar --God is the universal governing force and power of all mankind.  -Me

1. God

a. A being conceived as the perfect, omnipotent, omniscient originator and ruler of the universe, the principal object of faith and worship in monotheistic religions.

b. The force, effect, or a manifestation or aspect of this being.

2. A being of supernatural powers or attributes, believed in and worshiped by a people, especially a male deity thought to control some part of nature or reality.

3. An image of a supernatural being; an idol.

4. One that is worshiped, idealized, or followed: Money was their god.

5. A very handsome man.

6. A powerful ruler or despot.

Still segregated 57 years later but worst... Huh?

"Today is the 57th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, the landmark Supreme Court decision that declared racial segregation in U.S. public schools unconstitutional. Also today, American schools are more segregated than they were four decades ago."

Yes, there are more African Americans with positions of power and money today but what about the masses of our people who are still behind. We've been fighting for the same programs for years... we're still talking about jobs, justice, and education.  We have no real power even though we vote and pay our taxes and might I add have a Black man in the head office today.  This is a very painful topic to discuss because people died for us to have equal rights and justice but I feel like their spirits will never RIP until we learn to truly do for self.  They were fighting for what they thought was right at the time but like Dr. King knew in the end we were on a tight rope.  Which is why the recollections of those close to him during that time described why he was in a melancholy mood the days before his death--he knew we were integrating into a burning house!

Took look up 57 years later and say that we are more segregated than before especially with all of the advancement we have seen is appalling!  Which is why we must candidly and respectfully ask the question(s) Did the Civil Rights Movement really help or hurt us in the long run?  And, do we really have a future in America?  Because based on this article, historical data, and other charges for social-justice and equal rights we have fought for--lets off the feeling that we haven't really overcome.  This is not a gloom and doom argument or critique but one of transparency that addresses some serious issues and concerns.  If we are truly going to deal with this and other issues that continue to hunt us, we are going to have to figure this thing out soon!  Because time is of the essence and we don't have anymore of it to waste.  Our children's children will feel an even worst effect in the next 10 to 20 years, if this is not truthfully addressed! 

We can't continue to wait on or blame our problems on the government or a racist society.  We need to solve our own issues because the responsibility is on us at this point in the game.  We have more teens not graduating from high school like never before as all the latest statistics suggest.  Sure there are several complex issues that present a challenge but those issues can be corrected.  If we don't honestly look at and address our role in the matter, it will continue to get worst.  It will be interesting to see if we'll be singing the same song in the years to come but this commentator sure hopes not!

http://colorlines.com/archives/2011/05/brown_v_board_of_education_feature.html

The Bishop Eddie Long scandal ... Only God can Judge him!

The scandal of Bishop Eddie Long has brought up many questions, opinions, and thoughts that have invovked heated debates all over the Black and religious community.  Those in leadership and especially those whom have a high-profile tend to be looked upon closely through a microscope evenmore.  Whether he is wrongfully accused or not, it something that has to be addressed but addressed with caution and clarity.  We must deal with it truthfully and honestly with unabashed emotions if at all possible.  Moreover, we must not address this situation lightly just because Bishop Long is prominent to the community.  Nonetheless, I say this with total deference to the victims and families, for the pain and emotion(s) that they have to endure, is not to be marginalized. 

As critics, our critical examination has to be thorough in it's assessment and not juxtapose critical examination for contempt that is derogatory and disrespectful despite how we may deeply feel regarding the matter.  As inexcuseable as these accusations may be, we must allow for things to take there proper course.  In having said that, I'd like to offer some of the dialog that has been taking place between myself and others pertaining to this matter.  I leave you with these words... ...“He who experiences the unity of life sees his own Self in all beings, and all beings in his own Self, and looks on everything with an impartial eye.” -Budda

Bishop Long addresses his congregation...

Religious Gang Bangers!

Why do people concern themselves over other's religious affiliations??? "One's religious beliefs should be their own personal business at the end of day," as Kenny Gamble of Gamble and Huff fame stated but since we live in a society that wants to know all of your darn business these days let's speak on it!!! Historically, Indigenous and Native people have always had a close connection to a Higher Being or Creator, regardless of the name in which they use to refer to this Divine presence.

Without going to deep into historical and scriptural study, I'll keep it simple.  For a long period of time throughout history, there was a respect for one's beliefs, traditions and, or culture among the Indigenous people of the earth. To put it in "urban slang" terms--the Indigenous people of the earth didn't "hate," "set trip," "playa hate," or "demonstrate" on others beliefs, traditions, and, or culture. Where did that go??? Of course there are many valid theories as to why we "hate" on one another's religious beliefs today but as I said above I won't go that deep today. :-)

Fast Forward to the 21st Century... I was at a lecture while in college in Portland, Or where Student Min. Tony Muhammad of the Nation of Islam gave an account of a meeting he and other religious leaders of various faiths had with the street/gang organizations in Los Angeles to bring peace in the streets. He told of how one of the brothers from the "Crips" gang stood up and gave a very poignant account.  I'll paraphrase his words here... He said "I've heard all that you folks have said today but to my understanding ya'll have some conflict among yourselves as religious leaders. Ya'll don't get along with each other because you all are of different religion's!!!  And you all want us to bring the peace and stop the killing in the streets but ya'll are fighting among each other just like us.  How are the men of God in conflict? Ya'll ain't no different than us--ya'll ain't nothin' but Religious Gang Bangers!!!'"

Sidebar: Today, we've stooped so low as a society that we are burning each other's Holy Books.  ‎9/11 hurt us all deeply and we will never forget those who perished but this "Religious Gang Banging" must cease now! Furthermore, I wonder if Pastor Jones and any of his members are in the Masonic Order? If so, all I will say is "Peace Be Upon You!" Those of you in The Light know what I mean!!! -Sept 2010

-The Spiritual Institute of Divine Teachings is an organization of Believers of the Universal Divine Creator/One God of the Universe who 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.

"BIBLE AND QURAN TO ME THEY..RE BOTH VITAL." -COMMON

LIKE COMMON SAID "YOU GOTTA READ THEM BOYS."

Oct 2007 © Spiritual Insititue of Divine Teachings
Updated Sept 2010

Does President Obama's religious faith really matter to you?

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

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