BLOG PARTY -- CELEBRATING 2

Thank God! Call out his Name! Tell the whole world who he is and what he's done! Sing to him! Play songs for him! Broadcast all his wonders! Revel in his holy Name, God-seekers, be jubilant! Study God and his strength, seek his presence day and night; Remember all the wonders he performed, the miracles and judgments that came out of his mouth. Seed of Israel his servant! Children of Jacob, his first choice! (1 Chronicles 16:8-13, MSG).

From Hell to Win is celebrating 2 today!

Dear God:

Today marks a second year of celebrating You through blogging. In a posture of prayer and a heart consumed with thanksgiving, I broadcast my love for You. You are praiseworthy and I thank You for the mobility of my hands to compose inspiring messages of hope, praise, and triumph.

You have blessed me with a ministry to tell the whole wide world about You and Your awesome works. (1 Chronicles 16:8, MSG). Leading up to today, You allowed me to share what it means to live by and follow the Spirit--I ask that You continue to use me to express the benefits of having an intimate relationship with You. (Galatians 5:25, HCSB).

LORD, I extend appreciation to all From Hell to Win readers. I love them more! Because they are dear to me, I not only share Your Gospel, I share my life. (1 Thessalonians 2:8, NIV). For two years I've revealed my hells and wins, praying that my testimony would glorify You and offer encouragement to every reader. I intercede for current (and future) readers, asking that they:

• remember Your promises when life is challenging;
• declare life is good as they recall Your deeds; and
• believe the words of Jesus Christ: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10, KJV).

LORD, I thank You for the growth and development of From Hell to Win. In particular, I delight in featuring Vehicles of Compassion. All these people live(d) by faith and I hope their testimonials influence others to become Vehicles of Compassion. (Hebrews 11:13, NIV).

LORD, You are my first choice and You are the Life of my blog party! I sing jubilant songs to You. In the days ahead, it is my desire that the prayers I post on From Hell to Win will continue to exalt You.

In the celebratory name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Thank you for attending From Hell to Win's blog party!

Peace & Love You More...Malkia

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: SELF-CONTROL

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control. (2 Timothy 1:7, AMP).

Living God: Giver of Life, thank You for breathing me into existence. (Genesis 2:7, NIV). I kneel before Your throne in worship, extending my gratitude for being with me from my Hell to my Win. In jubilant song, I praise You for being my everything!

When I think about the Spirit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness, I must glorify You. (Galatians 5:22-23, HCSB).

I am a living, breathing witness, that following the Spirit of self-control has kept me from experiencing a multitude of emotional outbursts. However, I confess that I sometimes suffer from conniptions. Fortunately, my emotional outbursts have been restricted--within the confines of my home, car, and in the company of my closest (empathizing, understanding) friends, I cuss like I'm unconverted.

I admit that I need Your help in being more self-controlled. With my tongue I praise You, and with it I curse people, who have been made in Your likeness--I know this should not be. (James 4:9, 10, NIV). Purify my heart, O God, and assist me in following the Spirit of self-control more closely.

Continue to mature me, LORD; may I be more devoted to following the Spirit of self-control.

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: GENTLENESS

We are to be gentle (reasonable, fair minded, and charitable) to those outside the church, and not just to fellow believers. This means we are not to seek revenge against those who treat us unfairly, nor are we to be overly vocal about our personal rights. (Philippians 4:5, NIV Application Notes).

Living God: I thank You for being everywhere. I worship You because You are within my reach--it's remarkable that I can extend my hand and in return You touch me with gentleness. You're so wonderful!

I want to learn more about gentleness, O LORD. Help me to control my thought-life and harness my tongue so my "gentleness is evident to all." (Philippians 4:5, NIV). Engrave Your words of forgiveness upon my heart so my freedom is evident to all. Restrict my pride and help me practice humility.

Since I live by the Spirit, I realize I must also follow the Spirt of gentleness. (Galatians 5: 25, HCSB). As much as I try to be a Vehicle of Compassion, I confess that my thoughts, actions and words aren't always sweet, sometimes they're downright sour. Teach me how to interact with all people reasonably, justly, and graciously. (Philippians 4:5, NIV Application Notes).

I rejoice and extend my gratitude for sending me a gentle King--righteous and having salvation. (Zechariah 9:9, NIV). Let me follow His example, let me follow the Spirit.

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: FAITH

And Jesus, replying, said to them, Have faith in God [constantly]. Truly I tell you, whoever says to this mountain, Be lifted up and thrown into the sea! and does not doubt at all in his heart but believes that what he says will take place, it will be done for him. For this reason I am telling you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe (trust and be confident) that it is granted to you, and you will [get it]. And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father Who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your failings and shortcomings. (Mark 11:22-26, AMP).

Living God: You are my Endless Love and I thank You for embracing me with Your tenderness! I bow down in worship, acknowledging Your sovereignty. Heavenly Father, I celebrate You!

Grow my faith in You, O LORD, that it may be endless. Like Joseph, let me believe You "will surely come to" my aid and take me to my promised land. (Genesis 50:24, NIV). Like Hannah, let me continue to worship and praise You for honoring my requests. (1 Samuel 1:19; 1 Samuel 2:1-10). Like Stephen, let me be "full of faith and of the Holy Spirit," and have a willingness to forgive those who oppose me. (Acts 6:5; 7:60, NIV).

I want to trust You more, O LORD! I confess that doubt hinders my reliance on You. I confess that I hold grudges from past hurts, imagine how I'd retaliate, and totally blank out on the fact that it's Your role to avenge. (Hebrews 10:30, NIV).

Coach me, O LORD, to follow the Spirit. Train me, O LORD--let my faith be fit to believe that nothing is impossible with You! (Luke 1:37, NIV).

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: GOODNESS

Moses said, "Please. Let me see your Glory." God said, "I will make my Goodness pass right in front of you; I'll call out the name, God, right before you. I'll treat well whomever I want to treat well and I'll be kind to whomever I want to be kind." (Exodus 33:18-19, MSG).

I'm sure now I'll see God's goodness in the exuberant earth. Stay with God! Take heart. Don't quit. I'll say it again: Stay with God. (Psalm 27:13-14, MSG).

Living God: I approach Your throne this evening in reverence, bowing down to thank You for being my Creator. "I am so happy that" You "planned for me to be born in this galaxy, in this universe, on this planet." (Witnessing journal entry of Geralyne M. Holt). I rejoice in Your presence!

I treasure our intimate relationship--to know that You're pleased with me and know me by name is quite an honor. (Exodus 33:17, NIV). To hear You declare that your Goodness will pass right before me is music to my ears. (Exodus 33:19, MSG).

LORD, thanks for being attentive to all of my requests. As I decompress and reflect upon the day's events, I must tell You how grateful I am to experience Your goodness in the land of the living. You treat me well and kind--You give me star treatment.

I confess that I do get discouraged--I don't always possess confident vision and there are times when I want to quit. (Psalm 27:13-14, MSG). Increase my faith, O LORD, and decrease my fears.

I'm fully committed to stay with You! (Psalm 27:14, MSG). I will follow the Spirit of goodness!

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: KINDNESS

I will tell of the kindnesses of the Lord, the deeds for which he is to be praised, according to all the Lord has done for us—yes, the many good things he has done for Israel, according to his compassion and many kindnesses. (Isaiah 63:7, NIV).

Living God: Thank you for being awake and attentive, to hear our song of adoration. You are amazing, O LORD, and we praise You for being kind to Your people.

In our daily living, keep us mindful of the kind things You have done. As we go about our day, let us exhibit kindness to others--greeting them with joyous smiles. Give us opportunities to tell of Your kindnesses to people that need to hear an encouraging, hospitable word.

Purify our hearts, O God--remove anything that is not demonstrative of Your loving-kindness. Forgive us for the times we've been unkind, mean-spirited and vengeful. Help us to adhere to the command given in Ephesians 4:32: "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

We lift our hands in worship and lift our eyes to Heaven to say "Thank You" for being affectionate, benevolent, gracious, and understanding. Keep us faithful in following the Spirit.

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: PEACE

"I was pouring out my soul to the LORD." .... Eli answered, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him." (1 Samuel 1:15, 17, NIV).

Living God: On bended knee, I sing Your praises. I welcome Your presence and give thanks because Your peace resides with me. Attune my ears to the calm You bring when You enter the atmosphere. In adoration, I lift my hands in worship and pour out my soul to You, O LORD. (1 Samuel 1:15, NIV).

Master, I come interceding for the world today, asking:

• that trouble be replaced by tranquility;
• that stress be replaced by serenity;
• that rage be replaced by rest;
• that hatred be replaced by harmony;
• that fighting be replaced by forgiveness.

In stillness, we know that You are God. (Psalm 46:10, NIV). However, life is challenging when deafening sounds fill our surroundings. Forgive us for the times we've been fearful and fickle, not recalling that Jesus rebukes the wind and says to the sea: "Peace, be still!" (Mark 4:39-40, NKJV).

Increase our faith to truly believe that life is good and You, O God, will grant what we've asked of You.

Let us follow the Spirit and continue to tell the world that life is abundant because Jesus is the giver of peace. (John 14:27, NIV).

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: JOY

He is not here! For He has been resurrected, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay. Then go quickly and tell His disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead. In fact, He is going ahead of you to Galilee; you will see Him there.’ Listen, I have told you.” So, departing quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, they ran to tell His disciples the news. Just then Jesus met them and said, “Good morning!” They came up, took hold of His feet, and worshiped Him. Then Jesus told them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see Me there.” (Matthew 28:6-10, HCSB).

Living God: I praise You for being three-dimensional--Father, Son & Spirit! I bow down in worship because You are alive. I extend my thanks to You because You are a  Promise-Keeper. With abundant joy, I exalt You.

As I reflect on Matthew 28 verses 6 through 10, it is an honor to be greeted by the Son. As challenging as life gets, I can be certain that joy comes in the morning. (Psalm 30:5, KJV). LORD, keep me mindful at all times that You gifted a Savior to me with resurrection power. Ready my feet to run and tell the good news about Jesus Christ, "the Son of the living God." (Matthew 16:16, KJV).

Increase my faith, that it may be unwavering. Forgive me for the times I've been hesitant and fearful to follow Your instructions. Give me the determination to follow the Spirit, so I may share the joy of having a relationship with You.

Enhance my vision to see Jesus today and enable my voice to say: "in Your presence is fullness of joy." (Psalm 16:11, AMP).

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

FOLLOW THE SPIRIT: LOVE

Jesus answered, The first and principal one of all commands is: Hear, O Israel, The Lord our God is one Lord; And you shall love the Lord your God out of and with your whole heart and out of and with all your soul (your life) and out of and with all your mind (with your faculty of thought and your moral understanding) and out of and with all your strength. This is the first and principal commandment. The second is like it and is this, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these. (Mark 12:29-31, AMP).

Living God: I lift my hands in praise and worship because You are real. I enter Your presence with a heart filled with thanksgiving because Your love for me is so abundant that I am not consumed. (Lamentations 3:22, NIV).

LORD, please forgive me of my sins--for I have said, done, and thought things that are not representative of Your love. It is my desire to show and tell how much I love You, so please purify my heart, remove hateful thoughts from my mind, change my life that I may imitate Christ, and empower me to love You more and extend love to others.

I ask that your Holy Spirit fall upon me now, that I may go forward in faith, demonstrating how much I love You with all of my heart, mind, soul and strength. (Mark 12:30, AMP). Let me follow Your command and practice bearing the fruit of Love--may my life be pleasing to You, and use me, O LORD, to encourage others to live by the Spirit and follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:25, HCSB).

In the name of Jesus Christ...AMEN.

Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. (Galatians 5:19-25, HCSB).

ALL ABOARD THE SELF-IMPROVEMENT SHUTTLE -- 2nd Stop: Depart from Sin

After 37 years in the desert, the Israelites forgot that their wanderings were a result of their parents' and their own sin. They could not accept the fact that they brought their problems upon themselves, so they blamed Moses for their condition. Often our troubles result from our own disobedience or lack of faith. We cannot blame God for our sins. Until we face this reality, we will have little peace and no spiritual growth. (Numbers 20:3-5, NIV Application Notes).

Considering the increasing cost of fuel, riding this Self-Improvement Shuttle is economical. With the money I saved, I was able to buy some new outfits and accessories for my trip to the desert.

Hmmm...I think this is the first time I've actually enjoyed riding on a motor coach. The seats are clean, cozy and spacious. The temperature is comfortable. The ride is smooth. I've got WiFi access, and electrical outlets are available for me to plug in my iPhone & iPad. The sights, sounds and smells on the Self-Improvement Shuttle don't make me cringe! I may have to re-think the motto I normally adhere to: Malkia does not do public transportation! (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/04/vehicle-of-compassion-part-ii.html).

Next stop, Wandering Desert.

As soon as I depart the shuttle, my tour guide greets me and hands me a backpack.

Hello Malkia, and welcome to Wandering Desert! My name is Lucy Fur, and I'll be your guide as we navigate Wandering Desert's most popular attraction--a 37-mile hike on the Memory Lane Trail. All of our visitors receive a souvenir survival kit for the hike. Inside your backpack you'll find the following items:

• 2 water canteens from Bitter Bistro. Considering the desert temperature and length of the hike, you'll want to stay hydrated;
• a coupon from Divination Department Store for 50% off your purchase of any pair of hiking boots. You'll definitely need boots to withstand the desert terrain;
• a battery operated fan from the Church of God I'm in Denial; and
• an assortment of fresh fruit from Stuck on Stupid Supermarket.

You'll also find a map of the 37-mile route in the side pouch of your backpack.

Memory Lane Trail Landmarks:

1. Divination Department Store
2. Bitter Bistro
3. Scapegoat Spa
4. Greed Gym
5. Eye Candy Store
6. Church of God I'm in Denial
7. Bank of Financial Irresponsibility
8. Hostility Clinic
9. Self-Destructive Auto Dealership
10. Rebel Gas Station & Inconvenience Store
11. Pity Party Water Park
12. Fairy Tale Estates
13. Complain Country Club
14. Idolatry Business Center
15. Jealousy Arena
16. Vengeful Gardens
17. Blues Bed & Breakfast
18. Whinery
19. Repeat Offender Law Firm
20. Stuck on Stupid Supermarket

As soon as you purchase your hiking boots, we'll begin our 37-mile journey.

God, since January, I've been gearing up to celebrate my 37th year of life. Five whole months of planning my birthday vacay to the Wandering Desert and now that I'm here, I find out Lucy Fur (aka the Devil) is my tour guide down Memory Lane Trail.

Seriously?! I have lost valuable hours of sleep over the excitement of celebrating 37!

I am H-O-T: 

1. I've got beads of sweat rolling down my face;
2. these canteens are full of funny-tasting water;
3. this battery-operated fan-on-a-rope is circulating nothing but hot air;
4. I can't eat any of the fresh fruit because I'm allergic to blueberries, kiwi and oranges; and
5. to top it all off, I've gotta walk 37 miles with a tour guide that's taking me to every single sinful place I've ever lingered!

Uuuuugh, this is not the celebration I envisioned...O LORD, what have I done to deserve a 37-mile reenactment of my sinful behavior?!

Life is challenging because walking down the Memory Lane Trail is an audio-visual reminder that I'm a wandering, repeat offender of sin. Yes, it's my reality that this is not my first trip to Wandering Desert. In fact, circa 19__ through 20__, my desert trips happened so regularly they became predictable. The moment I decided to do good, sin was there to trip me up. I truly delighted in Your commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joined in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebelled, and just when I least expected it, they took charge. (Romans 7:21-24, MSG).

Countless times, I thought changing locations on the Memory Lane Trail would change Your will. (Numbers 23:27, NIV Application Notes). I'd wander from the Whinery to the Rebel Gas Station & Inconvenience Store. Ignoring the advice of my sister: Eye candy gives you cavities!, I hiked all the way up to the Eye Candy Store just to trudge back down to the Blues Bed & Breakfast.

On Sundays, I'd go to worship service at the Church of God I'm in Denial, then I'd go grocery shopping at Stuck on Stupid Supermarket immediately after service.

When You answered my prayers for a salary increase as the property manager at Idolatry Business Center, I opened checking and savings accounts at the Bank of Financial Irresponsibility. Because my raise was more than substantial,

1. I purchased a condo in Fairy Tale Estates, which came with a free membership at Complain Country Club;
2. I bought a 1976 Cadillac Eldorado Bi-Centennial Edition Convertible from Self-Destructive Auto Dealership;
3. I treated myself to weekly treatments at Scapegoat Spa; and
4. I got a personal trainer at Greed Gym to help me maintain my circa 1997 figure.

Unfortunately in 1998, I was involved in my first automobile accident. Considering how much I paid for my classic car, I knew I needed a top-notch attorney. Hence, I hired the senior partner at Repeat Offender Law Firm to handle my personal injury case. Due to the injuries I sustained as a result of the motor vehicle accident, I began physical therapy at Hostility Clinic. And, although I had top-notch legal representation and medical care, I often dined at Bitter Bistro because it was hassle to:

• go to court;
• setup an appointment to get an appraisal at the collision center;
• keep track of my medical expenses;
• drive a tiny car because my rental reimbursement coverage rate was $37 per day;
• keep my attorney updated on my physical therapy sessions; and
• keep my insurance claims rep updated about my automobile repairs.

God, please forgive me for all of my disobedience and faithlessness (and don't forget that I never lingered at Divination Department Store)! I repent and accept the fact that I've brought many of my problems upon myself--I know I can't blame You for my condition. Please tell me what I must do to obtain Your perfect peace. O God, show me what I must do to cultivate our relationship. (Numbers 20:3-5, NIV Application Notes).

Malkia, "you are not to go back that way again." (Deuteronomy 17:16, NIV).

Life is good because I remember the exact moments my relationship with You took pivotal turns.

1. November 1, 2003: During my visit to the Pity Party Water Park, I heard You say, "Get down on your knees and pray!" From that day forward, I conversed with You every morning at 6:00am.
2. June 20, 2006: I declared that I'm ready and willing to live how You are instructing me to live.
3. June 25, 2006: Instead of lingering at Vengeful Gardens, I "kneeled at" Your "altar and permitted myself to release 20+ years worth of tears. ...I willfully laid my burdens down...." (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/07/downpour.html).
4. November 21, 2011: I stopped lingering at Jealousy Arena because You said "Be still, and know that I am God...." (Psalm 46:10, KJV). (http://www.fromhelltowin.com/2011/11/wait-for-win.html).
5. December 3, 2011: I promised to make You my top priority. No people, no places and no things will distract me from strengthening my relationship with You.

Life is abundant because I've come a long way from my desert wanderings! As I celebrate 37, I'm letting You work Your will in me. I've hollered a loud no to the Devil and watched her scamper. When I sit in my closet and say a quiet yes to You, You are there in no time. I'm committed to quit dabbling in sin. I'm purifying my inner life. ...I am really serious. Every time I get down on my knees before You, O God, I know it's the only way I'll get on my feet. (James 4:7-10, MSG).

I'm ready to throw away my old way of living and move ahead into a new life of obedience to You and faith in Jesus Christ. Like the Israelites moving into the promised land, I can choose to destroy the wickedness in my life or settle down and live with it. To move in and possess my new life, to possess my wins, I understand that I must drive out my sinful thoughts and practices to make room for the new. (Numbers 33:50-53, NIV Application Notes). I'm ready to depart from sin.

I am ready to board the Self-Improvement Shuttle!

LORD, I am fully aware that Self-Improvement is a P-R-O-C-E-S-S. I know this journey will last a lifetime and I may have to revisit some destinations. Reassure me that I'm well-equipped to go through this process.

Direct me in the way I should go. (Isaiah 48:17, NIV). Lead me to the next stop on this Self-Improvement route. Reassure me that I will eventually reach the final destination of win.

I intercede for those who hesitate boarding the Self-Improvement Shuttle--Holy Spirit, please influence them to take the liberating ride.

Sovereign God, thank you for being my Teacher. I extol You for being my Master. Thank you for providing me a traveling companion in Jesus Christ. In His name, I pray...AMEN.

WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT

Being sanctified is not a setback.

Not only are you set apart, you're setup to receive God's wins.

Could it be any clearer? Our old way of life was nailed to the cross with Christ, a decisive end to that sin-miserable life—no longer at sin's every beck and call! What we believe is this: If we get included in Christ's sin-conquering death, we also get included in his life-saving resurrection. We know that when Jesus was raised from the dead it was a signal of the end of death-as-the-end. Never again will death have the last word. When Jesus died, he took sin down with him, but alive he brings God down to us. From now on, think of it this way: Sin speaks a dead language that means nothing to you; God speaks your mother tongue, and you hang on every word. You are dead to sin and alive to God. That's what Jesus did. (Romans 6:6-11, MSG).

A VEHICLE OF COMPASSION -- Part IV

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done. (Proverbs 19:17, NIV).

July 21, 2011

It's rare for me to catch the green light at the intersection of Fort Street NE and Auburn Avenue NE in Atlanta. Each weekday morning I stop at the traffic signal, and I observe the street corner activity. I always see a handful of homeless people sleeping under the viaduct. And a beggar usually approaches me once a week.

Prepared to clean car windshields with a bottle of glass cleaner and a crumpled newspaper, a man approached the car to my right. Before the man could utter a word, the driver had a conniption. She shook her head profusely, leaned against her horn, and motioned for the man to move away from her vehicle. The man paused, then walked over to my car and asked me for help.

Good morning ma'am! I live under the bridge over there. Do you have a penny? I'll take whatever you can give?

I gave him one dollar.

Thank you!

This incident occurred last Tuesday, and I'm still bewildered by the other driver's response to the beggar. I tried to gain understanding as to why the woman was so agitated by the homeless man. He did not accost me; he greeted me with a smile and made a simple request. He was set to perform a service if I agreed to help him. If the homeless man approached the other driver in the same manner as he approached me, her response seemed irrational.

As I sought clarity during my time of meditation, I revisited one of my favorite books of the Bible, Proverbs.  Several verses advise how we should treat the poor. However, Proverbs 22:2 resonated with me the most: "Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all."

As a Christian, I've been trained to demonstrate kindness and offer help to people in need. I will likely never know why the homeless man irritated the other driver and I must be mindful not to prejudge the condition of others.  It is simply my duty to acknowledge the humanity of God's people and be prepared to serve as a vehicle of compassion.

PROVERBIAL DISCUSSION

How would you have reacted in the situation?

Why do you think the other woman reacted the way that she did?

A VEHICLE OF COMPASSION -- Part III

Give freely and spontaneously. Don't have a stingy heart. The way you handle matters like this triggers God, your God's, blessing in everything you do, all your work and ventures. There are always going to be poor and needy people among you. So I command you: Always be generous, open purse and hands, give to your neighbors in trouble, your poor and hurting neighbors. (Deuteronomy 15:10-11, MSG).

Monday, June 13, 2011

While stopped at the traffic signal, I could see her through my side view mirror, walking through the lanes, waving at a few drivers.  No one was responsive to her plea for help.

During my commute to and from Downtown Atlanta, it is not uncommon for me to be approached by a woman or man pleading for food or money, so I assumed she was waving at cars to make such a request.  Before she approached my car, I opened my armrest console and grabbed my sandwich bag full of Honey Nut Cheerios.

Prepared to be generous, I rolled down my window and offered the woman 2 cups of a whole grain, naturally flavored, cholesterol-lowering, nutritious breakfast cereal.

But where’s the milk?

I eat these dry all the time.

Can you buy me breakfast?

This is what I’m prepared to give you.  They taste good!

She rejected my help because she couldn’t eat cereal without milk.  Outwardly, I identified with the hungry woman because she was a direct reflection of my ethnicity and gender.  Inwardly, I was totally baffled as to why a hungry person would refuse a free meal.

"You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you'll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me! And here I am, standing right before you, and you aren't willing to receive from me the life you say you want." (John 5:39-40, MSG).

Life is challenging because we overlook God’s blessings simply because their delivery is not packaged the way we envision.  Life is good because a close encounter with Jesus removes the scales from our eyes, and we receive sight to see Him standing right in front of us.  (Acts 9:18, NIV; John 5:39-40, MSG).  Life is abundant because Jesus is always prepared and willing to give us the life we desire.  (John 5:40, MSG).

Dear God:

All day long I’ve been puzzled by a response from a 15-second exchange.

How could she turn and walk away from a blessing?

I imagine You’ve made this same statement about me on countless occasions.  Although You appear at every intersection of life’s journey, I haven’t always accepted Your help.

How many times have I approached a blessing, rejected Your offer of new life and walked away?

How many times have You said ‘Malkia, taste and see that the LORD is good,’ and I willfully chose to starve?  (Psalm 34:8, NIV).

Yet, because of Your great love for me, I am not consumed, Your compassions never fail.  (Lamentations 3:22, NIV).  Thanks for not rejecting me, O God!  Thanks for saving me, Jesus!

As I continue to navigate this Christian journey, give me the visual range to recognize You.  Strengthen my commitment to imitate You.  (Ephesians 5:1, NIV).  Let not my heart be discouraged by today’s 15-second rejection.  Maintain my readiness to be utilized as a vehicle of compassion.

In the name of Jesus Christ…AMEN.

Jesus summed it all up when he cried out, "Whoever believes in me, believes not just in me but in the One who sent me. Whoever looks at me is looking, in fact, at the One who sent me. I am Light that has come into the world so that all who believe in me won't have to stay any longer in the dark. "If anyone hears what I am saying and doesn't take it seriously, I don't reject him. I didn't come to reject the world; I came to save the world. But you need to know that whoever puts me off, refusing to take in what I'm saying, is willfully choosing rejection. The Word, the Word-made-flesh that I have spoken and that I am, that Word and no other is the last word. I'm not making any of this up on my own. The Father who sent me gave me orders, told me what to say and how to say it. And I know exactly what his command produces: real and eternal life. That's all I have to say. What the Father told me, I tell you." (John 12:46-48, MSG).

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

Then I heard a voice from heaven shout, "Our God has shown his saving power, and his kingdom has come! God's own Chosen One has shown his authority. Satan accused our people in the presence of God day and night. Now he has been thrown out! Our people defeated Satan because of the blood of the Lamb and the message of God. They were willing to give up their lives. The heavens should rejoice, together with everyone who lives there. But pity the earth and the sea, because the devil was thrown down to the earth. He knows his time is short, and he is very angry." (Revelation 12:10-12, CEV).

Monday, May 2, 2011, 3:16am

As tired as I was, I picked up my phone to see why it was illuminated.  The most prevalent news story of the day announced the death of “the world’s most wanted terrorist.”  (Staff and wire reports. "U.S. KILLS BIN LADEN." The Atlanta-Journal Constitution. May, 2, 2011, p. A1.).  Right then, I knew it was no coincidence for me to be awake and alert at the 3am hour—this was the normal time for me to talk with God.  I asked:

What does this mean, this death announcement to the world?

This is what the LORD says: Do what is just and right. Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed. Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow, and do not shed innocent blood in this place. (Jeremiah 22:3, NIV).

What does this mean, this death announcement to the world?

“Am I only a God nearby,” declares the LORD, “and not a God far away? Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?” declares the LORD. “Do not I fill heaven and earth?” declares the LORD. (Jeremiah 23:23-24, NIV).

What does this mean, this death announcement to the world?

“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.  In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteous Savior. (Jeremiah 23:5-6, NIV).

What does this mean, this death announcement to the world?

God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him. (1 Peter 5:7, CEV).

What does this mean, this death announcement to the world?

Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God. (1 Peter 1:18-20, NIV).

What does this mean, this death announcement to the world?

Life is challenging because Satan terrorizes the Earth.  No nation is exempt from Satan’s sole purpose to steal, kill and destroy.  (John 10:10, NIV).  All around the world, Satan aims to rob people of their dignity, joy, freedom, love and peace.  All around the world, Satan commits acts of violence that result in the shedding of innocent blood.  (Jeremiah 22:3, NIV).

Life is good because we have a worldwide God who cares for the inhabitants of the Earth.  (1 Peter 5:7, CEV).  God is near to my homeland in North America; God is far away in Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia, Europe and South America.  (Jeremiah 23:23-24, NIV).

Life is abundant because centuries ago, our God raised a King who reigns wisely and does what is just and right in all the land; his name is The LORD Our Righteous Savior.  (Jeremiah 23:5-6, NIV).  Before the creation of the world, Jesus Christ was chosen to sacrifice his life; the world population was redeemed with the precious blood of The Lamb of God.  (1 Peter 1:17-20, NIV).

Dear God:

I don’t know if I’ll ever know what this recent death announcement means to the world?!

I do know that I believe in You.  Through Jesus Christ, my faith and hope are in You. (1 Peter 1:21, NIV).  I truly believe You always win!

I know that weeping has endured many nights.  People are still mourning the loss of loved ones.  Hearts are still aching and wounds are still healing.  People are still living in fear.

Lord, I intercede for all of humanity.  Let me, like David, seek You and understand that You will answer and deliver us from all fears:

The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken. Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. The LORD will rescue his servants; no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.  (Psalm 34:4, 17-22, NIV).

As your servant, I cannot rejoice in this death announcement because I know Vengeance is Yours.  (Romans 12:19, KJV).  O Lord, forgive us for the times we believe vengeance will give our souls a winning peace.  Forgive us for the times we believe a hateful and bitter attitude will grant us winning results.  Forgive us when we think committing a violent act will give us winning satisfaction.  Help us make choices that exhibit Your love and bring You glory.

The world needs a reminder of how we're supposed to live, right now!  

Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone to attack. But you must resist the devil and stay strong in your faith. You know that all over the world the Lord's followers are suffering just as you are. (1 Peter 5:8-9, CEV).

The world needs a reminder of how we're supposed to rejoice, right now!

Rejoice in the LORD always. (Philippians 4:4, NIV).

I don’t know if I’ll ever know what this recent death announcement means to the world?! 

But, I do know I'm grateful for this announcement:

"He is not here, but He has been resurrected! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, 'The Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men, be crucified, and rise on the third day'?" (Luke 24:6-7, HCSB).

I do know You are “the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” so the timeline of world events is no surprise to You. (Revelation 21:6, NIV).  I do know Jesus Christ is at Your right hand, making intercession for us. (Romans 8:34, NIV).  I do know Your word endures forever. (1 Peter 1:25, NIV). 

In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray…AMEN.

The grace of the Master Jesus be with all of you. Oh, Yes! (Revelation 22:21, MSG).