Discipline – Do not expect to become a best-selling author if you have no discipline. You cannot expect to develop your craft and skill if you are lazy. You have to set aside time daily to write; even if it is to only write down ideas and review materials that you have written. During this time, you can development your writing style and technique. No discipline means No development. In addition, discipline is a stabilizing force when one has to write under the pressures of a deadline. It will help you to learn the act of controlled creativity. You will be able to produce your best within certain time constraints.

Dedication – If you do not think like a writer, live like a writer, and have a writer’s worldview, you will only have mild to moderate success. You have to be dedicated to writing and the writer’s life; this includes being informed and educated. Attend writing seminars and conferences. These can broaden your thinking and challenge your current writing level. Always be update with the past and present world events and news, which is especially important for bloggers, analysts, and novelists. If you possess this level of dedication, you place yourself in position to be noted among the ‘greats.’

Determination – Finally, to become successful, you have to have an unwavering determination. Without it, you will not overcome the obstacles that writers face. The biggest obstacle is that of rejection. Rejection shatters the dreams of some, while fortifying the resolves of others. When you are determined, you will submit your work to as many publishers as necessary. Even if you cannot make it mainstream, determination will cause you to enter into areas that you never thought you would. Many best –selling authors resorted to self-publishing. They never would have done it without determination in the face of opposition.

Do you want to become a successful writer? It may take years of hard work with little recognition before any notoriety. Some say success is “10 percent inspiration and 90 percent perspiration.” The successful writer understands that this is not true. The successful writer discovers that “Success is 100 percent inspiration (you need it in order to write) and 100 percent perspiration (you are always working even when you are not published) and the unseen factor of timing and chance (marketing and publicity never hurts either).” However, with discipline, dedication, and determination, you will achieve success.

Well, there you have it. Write for success. Write for your health. Write from your heart. Until next time, take every opportunity to help others.

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A common expression is, “It is Time for some R & R.” We understand that the R’s in this statement refer to rest and relaxation. Anyone who has an active and busy life, know that without rest and relaxation, burnout may not be far away. The same holds true for the Christian life and experience.

As we struggle to maintain faith in desparate situations, maintain love when other hurt and reject us, and maintain balanced and fruitful relationships with Christ and others, if we do not have some type of R and R  in place, we will not be able to remain consistent in our Christian walk. In this post, I want to offer a little spiritual R and R that we need to retain a fruitful and lively walk with Christ.

1. Remember – David said in the Psalms, “Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and forget not all his benefits (Psalm 103:2 KJV).” Life’s difficulties can come hard, fast, and without warning. Time may arise where the gravity of the situation may cause one to wonder whether Christ will be with them and deliver them. If in the middle of difficult times, we pause to remember previous times where Christ proved faithful, it will help us to maintain consistency.

2. Raise – Isaiah declared, “They raise their voices, they shout for joy (Isaiah 24:14 NASB)” This prophetic declaration is made after revealing future calamities, that in the middle of it, those who know God would lift up their voices in praises. As we see the troubled times we are in,  the Christian can become troubled and concerned with the cares of life and their personal futures. However, as we raise our voices to Christ in praise, prayer, and worship, it will bring a refreshing to our lives, giving us peace and strength to endure.

Well, there you have it, a little R and R every Christian can use when life and circumstances become wearisome and woe-some. Take a little time and experience some spiritual R and R.

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The classic hymn begins, “Time is filled with swift transition, naught of earth unmoved can stand.” It reveals that life comes with prospects of change which even seemingly sure things can be affected. In biblical language, the writer of Ecclesiastes writes, “…time and chance (unpredictable events) happeneth to all (Ecclesiastes 9:11). Though Christ has promised to never leave us nor forsake us, Christians are not exempt from the unpredictable, unfavorable, and unfortunate occurrences of life. How are we then to maintain faith when uncertain times arise? Here are three keys (among others) to perseverance.

1. Draw close to Christ in prayer. Consistency in prayer will keep your relationship with Christ vibrate and lively in spite of negative conditions. It will provide a time of rest and refreshing as you all His presence to supply the needed grace and comfort for perseverance. Prayer will help you to avoid feelings of anger and bitterness with life and towards Christ.

2. Develop patience and hope through the scriptures. The scriptures are an excellent source of encouragement. When you read of how others who served Christ were allowed to suffer, it helps you not to feel as if you are being mistreated by the Savior. Through the scriptures, you can read of how He helped His followers and gave them strength to endure their difficulties. This can provide the necessary foundation for developing patience and hope which is a requirement to perseverance.

3. Share with others whom you trust. Some Christians experience faith “breakdowns” because they feel no one cares, no one understands what they are facing, and no one is there for them. Loneliness and isolation can solidify causing the strength to persevere to be absent. Some try to handle things on their own for various reasons; such as, personal ego, embarrassment, and past hurts. However, if one allows others in the community of faith to help bear their burdens of difficulties through prayer and godly counsel, it will be easier to endure uncertain times through the cumulative support of others.

Difficulties, hardships, sometimes unfair treatment, and uncertain times will come. However, the Christian will be able to come through with faith in tact as he maintains faith in Christ and draw strength and support from the community of faith.

There are Christians who live as if there is no standard of living for them after they have received Christ. Each of these groups of people are not prepared for their date with destiny; that is, the moment that they will stand before the judgment seat of God and of Christ.

Because of the sure promises of scripture, we must all prepare (watch) to meet Christ at His return or at our departure from this life. Therefore, we want to give three things that we can do to be prepared for our entrance into eternity.

1. Clothe Ourselves - In the scriptures, righteousness and good morals are likened unto clothing. We must make sure we are clothed with the attributes of proper Christian character and conduct.

For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke. Isaiah 59:17 (KJV)

2. Clean Ourselves – We must make sure that we are open with God about our weakness so that He can forgive us and cleanse us. Then, with His help, we must turn from thoughts and deeds that do not please Him.

Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil. Isaiah 1:16 (KJV)

3. Clock Ourselves - To clock means to keep track of time. In order for us to be prepared for our eternal destination, we must be aware of the times that we are living in. In addition, we must know that we will only live for a specified length of time on this earth. Therefore, we must live with this in mind, which should help us to prepare ourselves continually.

And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. Romans 13:11 (KJV)

The Christian can be assured of His eternal salvation, but he must not take it for granted. Christ came to save us from our sins, which enables us to overcome them while we live. This prepares us for eternal life in the kingdom. Live  in expectation of the kingdom. Are you watching?

Well, there you have it. For more topics of interest, I have included this and more information in my inspirational series entitled, “Is There A Word From the Lord? – Book III” which is available at Kingdom Builders Publishing.

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

Every Christian is commanded to grow. There must be spiritual progress. Jesus taught that every branch (person) in Him is expected to produce fruit. This is a sign of growth. Spiritual growth is challenging process, but has eternal rewards. In striving for personal development, the Christian has to overcome faulty self-perception, the opinions of others, and the lies that the enemy may bring to the mind. Therefore, we want to offer four keys that Christians can employ to stimulate personal growth in their lives and in their walk with Christ.

Respect the Lord – If you do not respect the Lord, you will not follow His commands, frustrating your growth. Wisdom precedes growth and wisdom is achieved through the fear of the Lord. If you want to grow, you have to have a respect and reverence for God, His Word, and His Standards. Without these, you will not have the proper perspective and passion for personal growth.

Rely on the Bible – The Bible reveals God’s eternal plans and purposes. As we rely on it as our standard for living, growth is a direct by-product. If you want to grow, it has to be done through applying the principles of scripture to daily living.

Rehearse Your Needs in Prayer – Personal growth will not be achieved without consistency in prayer. In prayer, you can express to Christ your concerns and areas of weakness. In prayer, you can receive strength to overcome obstacles; including self-imposed obstacles. Prayer raises your sensitivity to Christ. Hence, your heart will be open to change which leads to growth. Jesus said that men should always pray and not faint. Do not give up on prayer because you do not see immediate results, for it will have eternal rewards.

Redirect Your Desires – When we hear the word “desires,” we usually think of fleshly lusts. Though it is a part of desire, desires also include wanting things to go a certain way or feeling we are right in our opinions. If your desires are not redirected, you will not be open to correction and discipline. Every Christian has to be disciplined in their lifestyle and manner. In doing so, you will overcome the desire to please yourself. In turn, your desires will be redirected towards pleasing God. This will definitely lead to growth.

Personal growth does require persistence. However, it can be a consistent element in your life because we can do all things through Jesus. God wants the Christian to mature in Him. So, if you want to grow, you will receive strength and support. He will help you. Understand you have no excuse: be determined – Don’t Stop Growing.

Well there you have it. Until next time, continue in Him who is faithful. If you would like more inspirational materials, this and more is included in my book, “Is there a Word from the Lord? (Book II),” which can be found at Kingdom Builders Publishing.

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Have you ever asked yourself, “Am I good disciple of Christ?” We must all examine how we are progressing in our discipleship. We have all heard the expression, “You have to walk the walk and talk the talk.” The challenge upon Christians today is to make sure they walk in accordance with their faith. The Bible is filled with examples of those who pleased God. The writer of Hebrews says that Enoch’s testimony was that he pleased God. If the Christian follows his example, he can live a life that is pleasing to God. Though Enoch’s record is limited, we know that he had to do at least three things to have a testimony of bringing God pleasure. Every Christian should test their walk with Christ by Enoch’s example.

1. The Christian has to walk by faith like Enoch. If we are to walk the walk, we must live by faith.

Every Christian should have an unmovable faith in God and Christ. Without an unwavering faith in God, we will not be able to please Him. But without faith, it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6)

2. The Christian has to walk with God like Enoch. Enoch’s record stated that he walked with the Lord. One cannot walk with God except there is relationship. In addition, one’s walk with God has to be characterized by holiness. The Christian’s life has to be one of holiness.

Without holiness, the Christian will not see the full manifestation of God in this life, or be a partaker of the life that is to come. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. (Hebrews 12:14)

3. The Christian has to walk in obedience like Enoch. The Old Testament passages give us no extensive record of Enoch’s ministry. Yet, in order for him to receive and report a prophecy as recorded in Jude’s epistle, we know that he had to be faithful to God in service.

The Christian has to walk the walk and talk the talk in order to fulfill his task, ministry, and function in obedience to the will of God. Enoch’s obedience to God was rewarded and so will ours. For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. (John 12:49)

It is our hope that every Christian follows Enoch’s legacy and example. May our testimony be the same as his – We Pleased the Lord!

Well, there you have it! Until next time, continue to be steadfast and unmoveable in your walk with the Lord.

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Everything created has a beginning and an end. We expect things at some point in time to stop. However, as Christians, there is something that we cannot ever stop doing; that is, we cannot stop believing in our God. Foundational to the Christian life is the ability to have faith; that is, believe. Without a belief in the work of God through Jesus Christ, one cannot enter into salvation. Moreover, the obtained salvation cannot be maintained without an ever growing faith, hope, and belief in God.

Our belief in God has to go beyond a general belief in His existence. It has to expand to a solid belief in His power and ability to move on our behalf. Why do Christians stop believing that God is willing to move on their behalf? Even after He has done so many things apparently, it can still be difficult to trust Him. Many are double-minded: they swing between believing and not believing. Yet, it is time now to strengthen our faith in Christ again. We have to have a daily, active faith in our Christian walk.

Christians may not wrestle with belief in His existence, but they do wrestle with belief in His willingness to intervene in their life affairs. In this state, spiritual development is frustrated. This type of erroneous thinking frustrates many. Causes for this thinking vary from individual to individual. Some do not believe because they do not think they deserve anything from God. Others feel that they have done so much wrong that God could not possibly hear their requests. Yet, others feel that if they are not a “called” person then God is not concerned about them. All of these thoughts are inconsistent with sound biblical doctrine. Here are 3 reasons why a Christian must not stop believing in God (through prayers) who will walk with them daily:

1. We are instructed to pray. Jesus taught on numerous occasions concerning prayer. He said that we are to always pray and not faint. The parable He used demonstrated that even though we may have to pray about a situation more than once, it does not mean we will not get our request. We should come to Him in prayer, again, because He said so. He gives an open invitation. Why not receive it?

2. We are instructed to pray in expectation. He told us to ask in faith, believing we will receive from Him. Though there are times when our requests are rejected (for our benefit nonetheless), we can never stop believing that He will give us what we have asked for. He said that everyone that asks will receive. Jesus said that if our earthly fathers knew how to give good things, how much more our heavenly Father. If you are bold enough to make the supplication, He is God enough to perform it.

3. We are instructed to pray so that God would receive glory. When we pray and God answers accordingly, He receives glory. How? We bring glory to His name personally and as tell others of His good works towards us. God receives no glory in unanswered prayers. Trust that He will do it for you. Develop your times of prayer before Christ. Do not doubt His presence and power to perform your requests. If it is not in His will, He will give you peace in the midst of it. Remember, never accept defeat in faith: Don’t Stop Believing.

Well there you have it. Until next time, continue in Him who is faithful.

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Well, the verdict is in! God is still holy and expects those that draw nigh unto Him by faith in Christ to be holy. I know, I know: individuals throughout the ages have placed different stances on the holiness and what it means to be holy. However, one thing is established, God is holy. Holiness can be defined as morality according to Christ. Both Testaments affirm that God is Holy. Also, both Testaments agree that there is a requirement on those who serve Him to be holy; that is, demonstrated His definition of morality as revealed in the scriptures. In this post, we want to briefly examine three reasons for holiness in the Christian life.  Let’s get to it.

1) God EXPECTS those that come to Him to be holy. Jesus Christ freed men from the law, but not from living morally upright before God. As Peter wrote to the believers, he reminded them of God’s command to His people.

But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.1 Peter 1:15-16 (KJV)

Remember, God sets the parameters of holiness. It is not defined by what we are comfortable with or what we agree with. He identifies Himself as holy. This clearly demonstrates that our actions should reflect who He is.

2) One has to be holy to ESCAPE the coming judgment. Understand, faith in Christ is what saves men from their sin. However, after coming to Him, we still must live a life theat clearly reflects the faith and our relationship with Him.

Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness…? 2 Peter 3:11 (KJV)

3) The Christian who is holy serves as an EXAMPLE of the faith. The Christian’s lifestyle of holiness is a visible manifestation of the work of Christ. Paul reveals this in his exhortation to Timothy,

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.1 Tim 4:12 (KJV)

Christ died for man’s forgiveness and freedom from sins. When others see a changed life, they come face-to-face with the power of Christ’s death and resurrection.

Well there you have it! Holiness is not a religion or belief system, it is the defining quality of God that is to be reflected in His people. Until next time, continue in Him whose eyes are upon those who wait for Him.

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In the world, there are diseases which are called “silent killers.” In Christianity, there is a silent killer which one must be aware of; that is, FRUSTRATION. Frustration surfaces because life does not stop. It just keeps coming, coming, and coming. If it is not one thing, it is another. Many can relate to these sentiments. Life seems more of a curse than a blessing. It can bring so many trials, tests, and troubles that death seems like the only escape. Even those that have faith in God can sometimes sink into this pit of discouragement, depression, and despair. The words of David become the hallmark of existence,

My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? Psalms 22:1 (KJV)

Some reading this post know this scripture oh so well. It forms the basis of thoughts and prayers. Why does God allow us to experience so many hard things? Why does it seem as if He is unresponsive to our prayers and requests? It feels as if He does not care about what we are going through. We know from David’s words and the words of Christ on the cross that it happens in the life of those who possess faith in God. We may not always understand why or receive an answer from Him about why we have to go through so many bad things. Yet, we must maintain our faith, hope, and trust in Him. To survive the My God, My God moments your life, there are three things you have to remember.

1. The Promise of God. Though it may seem as if God has forsaken you and left you alone, He gave a promise saying that He will never leave you, nor forsake you. What this reveals is that even when it seems like He is not there. He is. His presence is the only reason you have not quit or had a breakdown. He is constantly giving strength, so that when you think you will not make it, you do somehow.

2. The Plan of God. It does seem insensitive when someone says to us that God has a plan when we are experiencing devastating situations such as death, sickness, loss of job, and other life changing events. It seems this way because we associate God’s plan with just events and circumstances, not understanding that God’s plan revolves around the souls of men and their salvation. We may not always agree, but God does have our best interest in mind. Negative circumstances can either draw us closer to Him or we can allow them to push us away from Him. In addition, God’s plan may be that others see your faith in the midst of your trials and troubles which brings glory to Him.

3. The Peace of God. Jesus promised His disciples that His peace would be left them after He was gone. He told them that they would have troubles and tribulations, but His peace and joy would be with them. This is the part that we sometimes forget about. God gives peace and joy because we would experience hardships and difficulties. The problem is that we focus on God changing the situation, rather than on the fact that He can give peace, joy, grace, and strength while we go through it. The peace of God is available, but we have to ask for it, receive it, and walk in it.

Our cry sometimes may be, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” However, we can trust His character that He knows what is best and offers strength when we face difficulties. The truth is He will not abandon you. Continue to believe, hope, and trust knowing that it will be worth it all when we see Him when this present life is over and we enter into our eternal rest. Do not let life’s frustrations be the downfall of your spiritual walk and growth.

Well, there you have it. Until next time, walk worthy of Him who has called you by His name.

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A few years ago, I heard a minister preach a message entitled, “No If’s, And’s, or But’s.” In the message, he encouraged the believers to stand on God’s word without doubt or unbelief.

It is interesting to note how many believers struggle with believing in the daily presence and power of God in their lives. The enemy tells us the same lies continually. However, on today, whatever you stand in need of, whatever you are trusting God for, or whatever God has promised you, remember that there are no if’s, and’s, or but’s concerning Him and His promises.

For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. 2 Corinthians 1:20 (KJV)

The scriptures are clear that all of the promises of God revealed through Christ are YES and AMEN. Yes lets you know that whatever He has promised that “YES!” – He will do it. Amen is a surety that His promised is established and it will certainly come to pass.

Do not lose faith in God. Hold on to the promises. Pray and ask God for faith and patience until every promise of the Word and every personal prophetic promise is manifested in your life. Again, there are no If’s, And’s, or But’s when it comes to God and His promises. There is only Yes and Amen.