When U Pray

In conclusion of our 4 week Men of Honor series I decided to have my father close us out.  Not only because he is my Father but because he is rare. I had the honor of watching him grow up and he amazes me more and more each day. He is the realist person you could ever meet. Im not gone say much because I could go on and on… So please read below as he discuss how he transformed from being just a husband to being what God called him to be and from Dopeman to being a Deacon..  Its a little long but I promise you won’t be disappointed!!!

This is a short story about a young boy and a young girl who became not only a man and woman but who became one. We met at the age of 15 in 1980 had two children TaWanna and Krystal Anderson, Krystal passed away at the age of 8 months. TaWanna is the one posting these blogs along with her mother. A lot of people go a lifetime trying to meet their favorite person;God gave me the pleasure of raising mines. Sheveze and Icourted for 10 years, got married, broke up, got back together and with God and only God we’re still together at the age of 50 years old and we are stronger than ever. (Applause expected). Ain’t God good? That is what it took and takes (please believe). Let me start out saying that you have to be equally yoked, keep in mind at the age of 15 all we knew about “yoke” was it came inside of an egg (smile). God knew what he was doing when we didn’t.

2Cor6:14

Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers for what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness and communion has light and day. 

We did not see that because I had not given myself to Christ yet. I was full of folly and shenanigans. Here was a young man born under the name of Michael L. Anderson that was raised by his grandparents from day one, mom and pops were on some other stuff at that time, but that is a whole nother story. I was brought up in a spiritual home but the “Church” thing wasn’t forced on me, remember grandparents let you get away with murder.  My foundation was excellent, I was taught and also witnessed love; I was brought up to have morals and a conscious. The seed was definitely planted in me; I was raised by a real man. I never saw my grandparents argue; they would get in the car and take a ride when there was a disagreement and come back with it resolved. A lot of folks would marvel over that but what that taught me was how not to argue with a loved one. When you truly love someone regardless of what the situation is there is certain things you do not say. Because I never saw how it was resolved, I had no filter. When I would argue with Sheveze (the love of my life) I would say the first thing that came out of my big mouth. I didn’t know better, but I knew love. Regardless what choices you make in life, if your roots/seeds are planted right, whether you use the tool or not there will always be a passionate side to you. 

Here is a young lady born under the name of Sheveze R Mitchell who was brought up in disarray, no solid foundation, living place to place not knowing if her home would be there or where her next meal was coming from. Not knowing when the doors on the house would be kicked in by the police because of her mother’s lifestyle of selling and using drugs. My parents wereon the same stuff but I was blessed to have an alternative and stay with my grandparents. I was spoiled and had everything and she didn’t, that is one of the reasons she appreciated things and I didn’t. Her mom’s would tell her she was going to the store and be gone for days. Most kids today would do the opposite of what Sheveze did if their parents were gone for days. Sheveze went to school every day regardless of what her situation was because that is where she found peace and love. Let me add that she is a heavy reader and this is another way for her to escape. (she is very intelligent). She read many books ignoring my foolishness.

One day at Flint Central High School “1980” after school I am doing my thing and she is doing hers, we met and exchanged a few words and went on about our way. A friend of mines was having a house party (he was Sheveze’s cousin) He asked me toDJ. I said cool, not knowing Sheveze was going to be there. She came in after the party started, I was spinning records real good, I saw her. I’m thinking like I’m about to do something with thisJ.  When the party ended most of us stayed all night, we sat up talking about the people who were in our lives at the time that was it. I was thinking I might get a kiss or something next thing I knew we were an item. We talked every chance we got; we used to fall asleep on the phone sometimes (puppy love stuff) etc. One thing she shared with me that really stuck with me was that she did not want to have anything to do with somebody that was in the streets because of her upbringing, now that she had her life under control that was a “No-No” never again. I was like cool, knowing I was street as hell, not by nature but by choice. My crew was something else, but let me go back to the word choice. Every time I hear that word I think of my granddaughter Nyla.  One day I picked her up from school and I asked her what was wrong because she had this down look on her face. She replied Paw Paw I made bad choices today and I got in trouble, I love her to death…I was good at making bad choices.  Sheveze and I were a hit; she became pregnant during our senior year. I was like cool, we gone have this baby, get our own place and live happily ever after. I was still running the streets and making moves, Sheveze is loyal and faithful as hell. I’m selling drugs, using drugs, cheating on her and doing all kinds of ungodly things. I was talking reckless to her, I was just fooling. The only thing that was keeping me covered at that time was all the folks that were praying for me, Big Mama and the prayer warriors. I n ever said anything to her but I used to ask God why he would allow us to come together before him with this marriage knowing I’m not doing right. He knows everything I am out here doing. His answer was revealed later, but at the time I didn’t know how to receive someone that I had not accepted (Jesus). Life goes on and I am doing the same thingswondering why I’m not getting different results. I had a beautiful family at home and I’m in the streets chasing money and women. I found myself not trusting this loyal woman because I couldn’t trust myself. (I look back and realize this was some crazy stuff) I have done things to  my wife that made me feel like I did not deserve that “Queen”. I even asked her why she put up with my stuff and her reply was “my flesh told me many nights to leave you or do something to you I would regret but my God said stand and let him work it out.” She said she was doing the Godly thing before me and I couldn’t even see it. She said the God she serves knew there was more to me than what I was doing so she would wait “patiently” on me. I was serving the devil, running in and out the house, throwing money around like I was doing something. I was once again missing the picture, what was needed was quality time, which was what was important. See I was doing “Daddy” stuff not “Father stuff”, how can you be a husband and parent when you are not present?  I was totally out of control. 

1 Tim 6:10

For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. For which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness and pierced themselves through many sorrows.

Then it happened, I got caught selling drugs, oh yeah its time to pay the piper. That is when the light clicked on. A lot of time it takes a tragedy or hitting rock bottom before you will wake up. That was my bottom. I started going to church, it was funny how that happened. I was sitting in the parking lot of the store down the street from Ebenezer Ministries in my car and Bishop UrandiKnox pulled up, he was the pastor at that time. We started talking and I was sharing my story which he already knew, you know how the streets talk. I told him that I was ready to come to church but I didn’t want to do it at this bad time in my life because that is when everybody jumps into church. (Pride thing).  Bishop’s words to me were “Mike, this is where you need to be. If you are sick, this is the place for healing and if you’re sincere whatever I or Ebenezer can do to support you and your family, it’s done. I told him thanks and the next Sunday my family and I were in church.

I repented, Psalms 32:5

I acknowledged my sin to you and I did not cover my inequity: I said I will confess my transgression to the Lord and you forgive the inequity of my sins.

I was OK after that and I asked my wife and my family for forgiveness. That was a beautiful day, the day my wife had been waiting for. Thank God that she didn’t give up on me; she knew I was a diamond in the rough. One thing we all know is diamonds have flaws but everybody wants one. A little food for thought, you may want to get a dish.

After all this time I finally get the picture, it wasn’t about me it was about God. Forever Always Must I Love You. (FAMILY). I have become the man God called me to be for him, my family and my community (Keep in mind I am a diamond and they have flaws). I have found my place in my marriage and my life. I am the head, if you think about it I was the head from day one,it just wasn’t on right. Everything I did I was the head; I came out of my mother’s wound head first now through Jesus Christ I’m the head of my life, wife and family. WOW, ain’t God good?? All it took was being obedient. I have never been a follower until I started following God’s word, excellent time to be a follower.

Proverb 13:13

Whoever scorns instructions will pay for it but whoever respects a command is rewarded.

Mathew 6:33

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added to you.

Everything was coming together, keep in mind I still had to go away and do that time from when I was working for the devil. See the devil doesn’t take installment payments, when it is time to pay up, he wants it all in full. You pay with your life. I was cool with that because God had already let my family know that it was going to be OK. He worked miracles throughout the whole sentencing, which is a whole other story; let’s just say God is good. My wife was provided for, my daughter was provided for and I was provided for. I used that time to get closer to God and to take self-inventory and prioritize my life.  When I came home after a few years God saw to it that life was good and things were in order. That is a hell of a word “Order”. 

God was there through it all I just had to make the “Choice”. Who would of have known besides God and my wife (who was way ahead of me in the spiritual game) that I would go from “Disobedience” to “Dope Man” to “Deacon”. The only thing those words have in common is they all start with the letter D. The outcomes of the words are totally different, wow another “D”. Two of those words will get you death, one will get you eternal life in the kingdom. I choose the latter. Thank God!

2 Cor 5:17

Therefore if anyone is in Crist he is a new creation, the old passed away behold, the new has come.

John 1: 12-13

But to all who believed in him and accepted him he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God. 

I woke up like this!

In our third week of the Men’s feature series we have Husband(4 years married), Author, publisher and founder of Brandon Publishing Kellen Brandon. A lot of times we focus on the women’s perspective not realizing the man has a HUGE roll to play in the success of marriage. His relationship with God is so crucial. That’s where his Faith,strength and direction come from. If he not hearing from God he may be leading you in the wrong direction. So please read as Kellen give us the man perspective on having faith in your marriage.

I have been married for almost four years now, and to believe that I have “marriage” or “faith” figured out would be nothing short of arrogance on my part. Hopefully we are all aware that I could never cover God’s entire introspect and instruction into one post. As we all should be seeking further faith, I recommend digging deep into His word for more answers and examples. I believe wholeheartedly that God has a sense of humor and often reminds me where I need growth in my life. Marriage and faith are commonly areas that need to be spurred forward. My wife and I married just four days after we were baptized into Christ. I honestly never saw myself being married to anything. So marrying a woman was something I had no desire to accomplish within my lifetime. I remember back when she seemingly forced me to go ring shopping with her. After only looking at one or two ring options, I disrespectfully dashed out of the store. Why? Because I was literally shaking with fear and empty of faith.

Yet the day I said “I do,” I could not have felt any more secure in my choice to become one with this woman. Why? Because I was faithful and certain in my relationship with God. Throughout my three months studying the Bible to be baptized, I prayed constantly about my desire to marry her. God calls us to seek counsel in order to execute plans of success (Proverbs 15:22). On September 1, 2011 (our wedding day) I couldn’t have been more confident or faithful in my counterpart.

I mention these two examples for good reason. One moment was filled with faith, developed from the practices of prayer, patience, humility, courage, and love. While the other was fueled by selfishness, waywardness, and lack of research (study). Having faith in our marriages means having foundation in God. Simple right? Well, not so much. Whenever my marriage is “struggling” it’s because one of us, or both of us, are lacking faith in God. We showcase this by the sin we allow into our lives. That sin forces us to be wayward, running in a circle, seeking the selfish desires of our own heart. These actions simultaneously cause us to avoid what marriage is all about–growth and love.

Men, God has called us to “lead” and our wives to “follow” (Ephesians 5:22-23). Yet He does not call them to follow ANYONE into hell. “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:42-45). Our “leadership” is NOT dictatorship. It’s actually submissive. We submit totally to God and our wives are able to witness. Gods word calls us to serve, having faith in His word allows us to practice service.

A faithful marriage is sound with service and selflessness. So if you’re looking for a place to get started or some foundational functions that will grow the “faith” that is so vital in your marriage. Start serving God! Which will result in serving your spouse. Soon many other wonderful gifts and insight will follow.

In this opportunity to guest blog, I truthfully wanted to carve something poetic, positive, and prosperous for others to digest. But God is not concerned with theatrics, just faith! We should be concerned with same. Having supreme faith in God means constant study, fellowship with followers (of Christ) , and application of His word into our lives. Once we do this, we will notice many of life’s items becoming more peaceful and progressive. Including our marriages, and all other things under Him. Amen.

#MoreGodLessMe

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (‭Psalm‬ ‭51‬:‭10‬ NIV) 

I’m listening to “Fill Me Up” By Casey J this morning and she says “Lord I want your heart, Give me your heart so I can love how you love, so I can serve who you called me to serve” Let that sink in for a second!!!! People think because you changed your life around and start living for Christ that it’s an easy walk. They think because you said yes Lord I will obey, that you magically turn into this person that love everybody and want to serve in every single ministry. Tuhh guess again.

Let’s be real who want to love someone that constantly dog them out. That constantly talk behind their back. Just recently I had someone lie on me tough!!! Like almost caused issues in my marriage. I wanted to fight because im like how dare you try to mess my stuff up!! Luckily my husband and I are tight so it didn’t affect us. But I had to pray and beg God to help me because I wanted to be confrontational and I cant. 

You think ministers want to get out their bed and go see the sick in the middle of the night. You think the prayer warriors want to pray every day for your situation when they are probably going through something more crazy than you. Do you think the dance ministries want to get up and minister every month when they are empty and need ministering to themselves. Or think the street team want to go out and serve the poor when their home life may be jacked up. The answer is no not all the time!!

But they realize that it’s not about them. It’s not about their wants and what make them feel good because feelings constantly change. According to Jeremiah 7:23 God said “obey me, I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in obedience to all I command you, that it may go well with you”. Main point being go well with you!!! Yeah I could have popped off and acted a fool on the person that lied on me but who would suffer from my ignorance. My kids? My kids, kids? Who knows!! 

At this tea I attended this weekend my friend Kyona stated God wants your obedience over sacrifice. Which mean by obeying God your kids will be blessed, the death angel may skip your house or your family house. When they make cuts at your job, your office is skipped. Your spouse may receive a job he/she don’t qualify for. You will have income to provide for your family and food in the fridge when you open it. 

SO yeah it may cause you to have to shut up when you feel like talking or go somewhere you really don’t feel like going, love someone that you know can’t stand you. But God called you for a reason so know you have the tools needed to do the job!! I’m not saying any of this to discourage you. But to show you that by following Christ you are not only able to bless your household but the people around you as well!! 💓

For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. (‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭23‬ NIV)

. Please read below as he give us Godly advice on leadership in Marriage!! 

Boaz replied, “I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband—how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” (‭Ruth‬ ‭2‬:‭11-12‬ NIV)

Seem like everybody is screaming and posting about their Boaz showing up. Which is perfectly fine, I mean who doesn’t deserve a husband? But first you must realize Boaz saw some thing’s in Ruth that he didn’t see in the other women. So while you’re screaming my Boaz is gone come, make sure you have some qualities that set you apart from the rest.

See Ruth abandoned everything she knew and everybody that was familiar to her. She entered into unfamiliar territory on Faith trusting that God had her back. What does this mean to you? You may have to abandon some places. You can’t be in the club Monday through Sunday, drunk and falling out!!! You may have to abandon some toxic people. Remove the gossipers, haters, doubters and unmotivated people out of your life. Your Boaz is not in the mist of those things.

Ruth submitted to Naomi making sure she had everything  she needed. What does this mean to you? Submit your life to God and he will give you the desires of your heart. Have a relationship with God, how can you expect him to give you a Godly man when you don’t even know who God is for yourself?

Ruth was a hard worker. A Godly man does not want a woman that’s not about her business. Whether it’s going to school or working a career. Have something to bring to the table besides a wet butt. Any woman can give a man that. Be prayerful and purposeful in all situations.

I know we all want the dream wedding. Beautiful gowns and dope Suits. But let me be the first to tell you the wedding is the easy part. After all the excitement is gone and y’all return home real life kick in. I remember telling my mother a couple months after my wedding  ummm what did I sign up for!!! Listen, when you are married even if you are mad you still have responsibilities. You still have to pray for your husband, support his visions and anything else. It’s not about you anymore(wake up call for me) it’s about the unit. 

Just because you said I do does automatically make you one flesh!!! To become one you have to go through some challenges and they all aren’t pretty. I’m not saying any of this to discourage you from being married because it is a wonderful thing with God as the foundation. Just take your time and work on yourself while you’re single so that when Boaz show up you are more than ready to be his helpmeet. 💞

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her (‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭25‬ NIV)

Most of the time you hear the woman’s perspective on marriage. We are very Vocal about how we feel about things. But you never really hear how the man feel or what his outlook on marriage is. Well today we get to hear from my Friend Kevin Brooks as he discuss his interpretation of Ephesians 5. He has been married 20 years so I think he is qualified!! Read below 👇🏽

2 Timothy 2:14-16 ERV…Keep on telling everyone these truths. And warn them before God not to argue about words. Such arguments don’t help anyone, and they ruin those who listen to them. Do your best to be the kind of person God will accept, and give yourself to him. Be a worker who has no reason to be ashamed of his work, one who applies the true teaching in the right way.   Stay away from people who talk about useless things that are not from God. That kind of talk will lead a person more and more against God.

There are people out here who will try and give you all the reasons that you should not serve God. They have studied and they believe they have valid  reasons about the bible,  how it can’t be accurate,  how you can’t love soneone/something you’ve never seen and  how we (Christian’s) are being brainwashed.  I say good for them,  if they have a reason for what they believe,  at least they believe something.  However, I still get to believe what I believe. 

I was talking to my barber yesterday  about this very thing and she hit me with a truth so true I stopped breathing for a heartbeat. She said,  “You can have that book and everything in it,  you can dispute every incident in there but you can’t take away  MY Experience with God.”  I may have improvised a bit but you get the meaning.  Her words reminded me that there are some things I find true about My faith.   You can’t take away the fact that when I had nothing and I got down on my knees and prayed to God he answered.  You can’t take away the peace I get I when I pray or the joy I get when I worship. You can’t change the fact that when I fasted and prayed for my marriage God held me,  kept me and restored me. I’m still married and I know it was God. You can’t change my experience with God,  my faith or my joy.
Isaiah 12:2 KJV …..Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

“You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. (‭Genesis‬ ‭3‬:‭4-6‬ NIV)

I know for a fact every woman has said something like “When I get to heaven Eve and I will have some words, because if she didn’t eat that apple we wouldn’t be going through this.” The last time my friend and I joked about it I started thinking… Eve did eat the apple and caused a lifetime of pain for all woman. But how are we any different from her? How can we be mad at her every month when we eat apples every day that cause a lifetime of pain to someone?

I’m not talking about your apples from the local grocery store. I’m talking about the apple of Gossip, which cause people to look at other people differently. Causing them to draw an opinion of someone they don’t even know due to something you said. I’m talking about the apple of Lust, that’s causing men and women to have sex with married people and their friends mates which in return ruin families and friendships. Then you have the apple of attention seeking which is causing people to do any and everything for someone to pay them some attention.

Let’s not talk about the apple of Money, causing Women to sleep with men to have their bills paid or to buy the latest pumps and purses. Which down the line cause brokenness, emptiness and soul ties to a bunch of men who could care less about them. Men selling drugs to people and causing families to broken and possibly a generation of drug addicts.

The devil is the same today as he was back in the Garden of Eden. He want to destroy you. He know what you struggle with, he know what you love and guess what?? He will make those things so available to you that you will feel it’s the right thing to do. WRONG!! According to( Jeremiah 35:5 NIV/TM) we must turn from our wicked ways and reform our actions. That mean we have to stop doing foolish things. Yeah I know we have grace but that does not mean we can continue down the path of self-destruction. So the next time you are ready to be angry at Eve for eating the apple, make sure your fruit basket is empty💞

Coming to his hometown, he began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. “Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?” they asked. “Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? Aren’t all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?” And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town and in his own home.” And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith. (‭Matthew‬ ‭13‬:‭54-58‬ NIV)

Have you ever wonder why the people you grew up with, family, and even close friends don’t support you? I know I do!! At one point I got discouraged like man what is it?!?!? You expect the people that’s around you all the time to be right there with you. Tuhhhh think again!!! They are the first ones to look at you sideways. The first ones to not buy your product or come to your events. Won’t even take the time to read something you wrote.

The problem is they can’t get past the old you. They still want to hold you accountable for something you did in the 6th grade. They want to keep bringing up the people you slept with. The parties you attended. The drunk nights. The fact that your mother or father wasn’t nothing so you can’t possibly be anything.  The fact that you had a child before marriage so they feel your life is completely over.

What they fail to realize is God will come and grab you from the slums. According to (‭1 Samuel‬ ‭10‬:‭6‬ NIV) The Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person. What are you saying TaWanna you ask? Im saying that no matter what you been through, no matter what your past or your parents past look like you can still be successful!! You can still be blessed. God can still use you to better the kingdom.

So don’t be bothered if people don’t support you. Jesus couldn’t preach in his own hometown because of the haters(my own words) but did that stop him? Heck no!! If God gave you the vision for your business, your task or your event, trust that he will send the people you need. You don’t have time to be worried about who didn’t. You just keep doing what God placed in your heart and know  without a shadow of a doubt that he will provide for you and somebody, somewhere will be impacted by your works.😘

While he was saying this, a synagogue leader came and knelt before him and said, “My daughter has just died. But come and put your hand on her, and she will live.” Jesus got up and went with him, and so did his disciples……When Jesus entered the synagogue leader’s house and saw the noisy crowd and people playing pipes, he said, “Go away. The girl is not dead but asleep.” But they laughed at him. After the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took the girl by the hand, and she got up. (‭Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭18-19, 23-25‬ NIV)

How many of us are dead(not literally)?! But Trying to maintain Dead relationships. Dead friendships. Spiritually Dead.. Working Dead end jobs because we allowed dream killers to Dead our dreams. Living in Dead cities trying to function around other Dead people!!!

Like the girl lying dead in that room we need Jesus to reach out his hand over life!!! We need him to touch every Dead situation we are going through. It’s time out for contentment. Time out for just getting by and barely making it. Staying in situations because it’s convenient.

It’s time to cry out to Jesus just as that Father did!! Not that pretty praise. But Lord I can’t make it another step without you praise!!! According to (‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭7‬ NIV) If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. That mean no matter what you are going through, no matter how dead your life is Jesus can bring it back to life!!!

He will speak on your behalf, he will quiet all naysayers!! He will shut up all doubters by simply showing them you are not Dead!!!! You were sleeping and he is about to lay his hand and awaken something in you that they will not be able to handle!!! (Insert a shout right there🙌🙌)

All you have to do is believe!!! When he lay his hand on you just say Yes Lord and he will take care of the rest!!!! 💞

Church people had turned me away from God. Has that ever happened to you?  They forget what the bible says about respecting each other.

Ephesians 4:2-3 ERV
Always be humble and gentle. Be
patient and accept each other with love. You are joined together with peace through the Spirit. Do all you can to continue as you are, letting peace hold you together.
Titus 2:7 ERV
You should be an example for them in every way by the good things you do. When you teach, be honest and serious.

I used to go to church and when we got home some family members would talk about the people in church like dogs.  I mean demean the way they dress and/or talk about thier situations with a mean spirit.  I would look at these people and think, if this is what church does for you,  I’m good.

I had a girlfriend who went to church every Sunday,  went to bible study,  was always talking about God but she was the most cunning,  conniving,  mean spirited person I ever knew.  She invited me to her church,  I said “I’m  good”.  All I could think was if she was an example of what church did for people, I’m good.

You ever go to a church or meet church folk who can tell you all about your sin, all about what the old testament said about what to say,  how to dress and how to behave and totally ignore Jesus and what he died for?  Those people who can tell you everything about the bible but can’t show you where it is in the bible?  I’ve met them too, they are gently asked to show me where it is so I can go to God for his revelation for me,  that shuts them up usually. This is what I needed to know.
Romans 8:2 ERV
That is because in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit that brings life made you free. It made you free from the law that brings sin and death.

I could go on and on but I think you get the picture.  These people were in a position to show me the true and living God but I don’t think they knew him,  I think they knew church because they went every Sunday as kids and it was something they had to do. They knew the rules,  don’t walk during prayer and scripture, they knew every usher hand sign but they didn’t know God. They knew scriptures and songs but no idea who God is. I know God, and I hope when you see me,  you see something of God in me.

Ephesians 5:1-2 ERV
You are God’s dear children, so try to be like him. Live a life of love. Love others just as Christ loved us. He gave himself for us—a sweet-smelling offering and sacrifice to God.

Sheveze

He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. (‭Matthew‬ ‭8‬:‭26‬ NIV)

Everybody says have Faith. But what does that mean to me? My water about to get cut off.. I got 5$, my children and I are hungry, My husband driving me totally insane and I’m ready to throw the towel in, I’m ready to put my kid out he acting like a terrorist, I’ve been molested, I’ve had heart ache, I’ve been betrayed, What does faith have to do with me and my issues?!
It means you must first have a relationship with God. How can he hear your cry when he don’t know you? He just like a parent when they hear their child cry… Wait that’s my baby let me see what’s going on!!!! It means trusting him with every ounce of your being.. According to (‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭6‬ NIV) And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Just like Peter when he saw Jesus walking on water. He said Lord if it’s you tell me to come. Jesus told him to come and he was walking on water!! But then the wind came and Peter turned his attention from Jesus and focused on the wind and he started to sink all because he lost focus!! When you focusing on your wind of heartache read John 3:16 God said I love you if nobody loves you. I gave up my son to prove it. When you focusing on your wind of frustration read 1 Peter 5:7 God says cast all your cares on me!!! When focusing on your wind of giving up read Philippians 4:13 God says you can do all things through me!!! When you focusing on your wind of money issues read Philippians 4:19 God says I will supply all your needs!!!
Now, have the Faith that says if God doesn’t work it out the way I felt he should have!!! I know that it has to be a better way because he said I will do exceedingly and abundantly above all you can ask or think!!!!! Let’s not be like Peter and lose focus!! Keep your eyes on God and everything will work out according to his Will!! ❤️

The members of Whenupray would love for you to join us in a week of prayer by reading the Lord’s Prayer daily. (Matthew 6:9-13)

Each person will vow to recite the Lord’s Prayer for 7 days. ..Lets stand in unity together and watch God move in our lives!! If you are willing to share the outcome of your prayers we will feature your story at Whenupray.com

In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen

I will make your forehead like the hardest stone, harder than FLINT. Do not be afraid of them or terrified by them, though they are a rebellious people.” (‭Ezekiel‬ ‭3‬:‭9‬ NIV)

Everybody in the world know the negativity around our city(Flint, MI). I think it’s on every horrible city list that’s out. I can say that it has dried up a little. The life has been sucked out due to all the negativity around this place. But I can say on the flip side a lot of successful people have been created here.

Today I want to highlight my friend Ashley Green(Adams) born and raised in Flint, Michigan. Graduated from Southwestern High school. Bachelors degree from Michigan State. Masters degree from the University of Toledo and now her Doctorate from Western Michigan University(insert high praise). She currently work at Michigan State University as the Director of Scholarships and fellowships. She’s married and have two beautiful children. On the board of numerous organizations. Plus she has been an active member at Ebenezer Ministries for over 20 years!!!

I am definitely bragging on her because she deserve it. She has worked super hard. But also to show that no matter where you come from. No matter the situation you are in. You can be successful!! Don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t be. Was this road easy for her. Heck no!! I’m sure most days her Faith kept her when everything else was telling her to quit. When people were telling her it couldn’t be done. When her husband needed her, when the kids were going crazy. But nothing worth having in this life come easy. It take hard work and dedication!! Put your trust in God and let him lead the way. He will make a way out of no way!! Just trust and believe!! God said that we will have an abundant life!! He didn’t say be depressed, miserable or bitter!! Have the faith to expect all of God’s greatness for your life and watch things fall into place❤️