Temptation

I am working on my June issue of Beyond It All Magazine and it is focused on temptation. I decided that that subject is perfect for the beginning of summer because it's just something about this summer sun that brings all the temptation out of the woodwork. This memorial day weekend really is what starts it. The temptation to drink with your barbecue, to dress half naked, to flirt and to spend more time hanging out then focusing on the word of God. You may think"But it's just so hard!" But it's acutally easier then you think, you just have to remember to stay focused on the love of God and remember who You are. We are children of God. Not many think about that when we are out about focused on this world and what the world provides. If we realize that God loved you so much that he paid for you with His son's blood you have more desire to want to give Him glory all the time. Everything you do, just knowing that should make you think about how you should be pleasing to Him. Just think about where you would be if He didn't love you enough to save you? Despite all the problems in this world.. you know that you aren't going to pay for your sins. That should be enough to walk away from temptation forever.

ONE YEAR BLOGIVERSARY!!!!

Hello Everyone! Today is my one year blogiversary!!! yeah!!! Now unlike other anniversary blogs I won't be posting a bunch of links just two: My first Blog written 5/20/2005 which I done about LaShawn Barber the woman who inspired me to do a blog after I heard her speak at the Christian World Journalism Conference in Atlanta and this link of my favorite blogs just in case you want to know all of my favorites over this one year. Anyway, I just want to give a BIG THANK YOU to all my blog readers and for listening to all I write. I really love sharing what's been put on my heart to share and I really believe that none of what I write come from me but from the words of God. Now I am asking something of all of you if you can. Below I am posting a brief survey and I would like for you to fill it out. Send it back either by my e-mail or in the comments! Thank you! And I look forward to writing for more years to come in this blog! God Bless Everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*Survey*
1. How did you find this blog?
2. What is your favorite read so far?
3. Did you learn anything from this blog?
4. What religion/denomination are you?
5. How old are you?
6. Is there anything you would like for me to write about in the future?
7. Any additional comments would be great.
Thank you!

Below is my Blog stats from sitemeter as of 5/19/06 THANK YOU!
Matthew123 6-37 (sm6telika) -- Site Summary --- Visits Total ........................ 3,800 Average per Day ................. 10 Average Visit Length .......... 0:50 ThisWeek ...............68

Page Views Total ........................ 7,478 Average per Day ................. 17 Average per Visit .............. 1.7 This Week ...................... 117

Major Day of Prayer this Friday

This Friday the DaVinci Code is out. I know I blogged this before but I just want to call all Christians to prayer on that day that the enemy will not get out his lies and will not succeed in stealing the souls who watch this movie! I know some say that it's only a movie how serious can this be? but actually the author of the DaVinci Code has been quoted in saying that everything except the characters are historical fact and this is not true! Want proof? Below is the article I received with links that you can read that shows that the DaVinci Code is filled with lies that attack Our Lord! I believe prayer is powerful and if we all arm ourselves with the weapons of spiritual warfare we have nothing to worry about!

From: Way of the Master
Date: May 17, 2006 2:05 PM

This coming Friday, March 19th, a blockbuster movie called The Da Vinci Code will be released. The movie stars Tom Hanks, and is slated to be very popular.

The problem with the movie, which was adapted from a book of the same name by author Dan Brown, is that it tells many deceiving lies about Jesus Christ. This movie has the potential to mislead many many people, costing them their eternal salvation.

What does this have to do with us? It is our job to stand and speak the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and to help save the many people that will be mislead and damned for eternity because of this upcoming movie. To help us do that, the latest blogs provide an in depth look at the lies presented by the book and the movie. It then provides the truthful answers that we can present to enlighten those deceived by Dan Brown.

The article is presented in three parts:

Crash Goes The Da Vinci Code (Part 1)

Crash Goes The Da Vinci Code (Part 2)

Crash Goes The Da Vinci Code (Part 3)

There is a link at the bottom of the blog so you can print the article if you wish. Please pass this article along to anyone you know that plans to see this movie. I also welcome your comments and questions. Please refrain from any questions until you have read the entire article.

Have a blessed day!

Luke 10:19 "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you."
We have the power to defeat the devils plans through this movie!! Get to praying and fasting and speaking His Word!

Be Forgiven!

So many of us easily accept someone who is a non-christian who has done wrong and ready to come to Jesus. We say that it is okay and God loves them and that all that sin they lived in is paid for. But once they become a Christian they are under the watchful eye. They have a long list of things they must follow and if they don't then shame on them! That's not how it's supposed to be. Once you become a Christian you are forgiven and you continue to be forgiven. No one becomes perfect once they accept Jesus. It says in 1 John 1:8-10 "If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us." so all those high and mighty Christians who feel like because they stay at home holding their Bible and looking down on others think they no longer need forgiveness. No! no matter who we are we are not perfect and we all need God's forgiveness everyday. This quote is my favorite and it's from my pastor Gregory Dickow, "Jesus salvation didn't end when you became saved it just began." So there is no need for you to condemn yourself when you make a mistake. Believe that God love is so strong for you and that He wants to forgive you! Now once you feel God's great love it will become harder and harder to do the wrong things and God will show you the right way to live and be wise so that you are blessed. Things that I do that are good just began to come naturally because I followed the leading of the spirit that was brought to my attention either while reading the Bible, hearing it at chruch or just hearing His voice. I heard and I followed and I grew. " Walk by the spirit and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh" Galatians 5:16 You first walk by the spirit and the desire will leave. If you make this long list of things you can't do and you try not to do them you will fall short. But if you walk in love (the fruit of the spirit is love) and stay in prayer God will strengthen you and help you.

Any problems today? (What God says)

You say: "It's impossible"
God says: All things are possible(Luke 18:27)
You say: "I'm too tired"
God says: I will give you rest(Matthew 11:28-30)
You say: "Nobody really loves me"
God says: I love you(John 3:16 & John 3:34)
You say: "I can't go on"
God says: My grace is sufficient(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)
You say: "I can't figure things out"
God says: I will direct your steps(Proverbs 3:5-6)
You say: "I can't do it"
God says: You can do all things(Philippians 4:13)
You say: "I'm not able"
God says: I am able(II Corinthians 9:8)
You say: "It's not worth it"
God says: It will be worth it(Roman 8:28)
You say: "I can't forgive myself"
God says: I forgive you(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)
You say: "I can't manage"
God says: I will supply all your needs(Philippians 4:19)
You say: "I'm afraid"
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear(II Timothy 1:7)
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"
God says: Cast all your cares on ME(I Peter 5:7)
You say: "I'm not smart enough"
God says: I give you wisdom(I Corinthians 1:30)
You say: "I feel all alone"
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you(Hebrews 13:5)
It can be so easy sometimes to wallow in your problems but if you have faith in God and His love you have no excuse!
God says so many things to you filled with encouragement and love seek His words today

ONE

We can all come together and do what we can to end poverty. So many feel like world problems are too big to conquer, but I never think that... nothing is too big for God. I support the one campaign and everyone united to pray, sign, donate to end poverty for good!



Thank you for taking action with ONE: The Campaign to Make Poverty
History. Your voice DOES make a difference!

But there is still more you can do to help get the word out:

* Get local with ONE in your community

* Please help us tell your friends and family about The ONE
Campaign and how they too can
lend their voice to help beat global AIDS and poverty.

Tell them to sign the declaration now at ONE.org
. ONE by ONE, we can make the
difference.

BE A BLESSING TO BEYOND IT ALL MAGAZINE

BEYOND IT ALL MAGAZINE 5 ISSUE SO FAR GOING STRONG. IF YOU COULD HELP THE MINISTRY OF THIS MAGAZINE FOR TEENS PLEASE CONTACT ME! I SELL VERY AFFORDABLE ADVERTISING SPACE AND DONATIONS ARE WELCOME! HELP ME GET THE WORD OUT TO OUR TEENS
GOD BLESS!

MAY ISSUE!!!!!

This May issue was an experiment conceived by me when I realized that so many young people have a notebook stashed somewhere filled with their creative talents. I thought, why not have all the best spill over into my magazine? This experiment was a great experience because I got to read some of the best praises, triumphs, situations and life experiences put together in poetic form. I hope you find this as uplifting as I did. Congratulations to Clarissa Wilburn winning the cover for her poem "A Teens Prayer" I love the way it creatively conveys what teens sometime go through in their walk with Christ. Don't worry I didn't leave out the quiz, take it and find out if your hobbies are what's stopping you from having a rich and positive life. But that's not all! Read about Akiane Kramarik, I guarantee it will take your breath away! She is not just another child prodigy, at the age 4 she brought both of her Atheist parents to Christ from visions that she had. Through her talent and words this girl is walking proof there is a graceful and merciful God!
( I am having problems uploading pictures so I am going to try again to show the cover later If you really want to see go to the website)http://www.lulu.com/beyonditallmag

Immigrants A.K.A. God's Children

"More than 12 million
immigrants passed through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954. Many Americans can
trace their immigrant ancestors through Ellis Island." What if America closed it's doors a long time ago? Where would you be?

Today, May 1st, many of God's children are marching and boycotting businesses because they are being denied opportunities because of where they were born. To me, this is shocking because God is no respector of persons (romans 2:11) and we shouldn't be either. If we believe that God can bless us with opportunity and wealth why can't He bless immigrants? Are we that selfish as Americans that we have to keep all of our opportunity and our education and our money and our jobs to ourselves? Don't God love the whole world? Wouldn't He want us to love and share with one another, not just the people who were born in the same country where we were born? Jesus said it best when he spoke on giving to others, "And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you." (Matthew 5:40-42) This passage is usually used for a relationship between two people but it can be for nations as well.

We have to constantly remember that the GREATEST commandment is love. God put that commandment before any other. Loving God and loving each other is the key to life. (1 Corinthians 13:13)

BREAKING POINT

Reading all the wonderful poetry people have submitted for my magazine inspired me to write some new ones of my own. I used to be big on poetry back in high school and last year I published a poetry book on some of the ones I really loved, and then I got involved with writing for my magazine and journalism and basically non-fiction stuff that I backed up my creative flow. So, I'm glad that it's back! Let me know what you think of my poem below.

BREAKING POINT
You wonder what's true
hearing so many praise
but all you see is pain.
Going beyond your eyes
is so hard sometimes
truthfully
I can't help
wondering and doubting
Is it possible?
Will it happen for me?
I'm now at the point
where I feel like giving up
how much longer do I have
to wait.
If only I knew that THIS
is the point of the last test
God is ready to bless
as long as I don't break

3 more days

I could kick myself for not posting this on my blog sooner. But I am looking for poetry, short stories etc for my May issue dedicated to creativity. The may issue of Beyond It All Magazine will be different it will be mostly made up with creative works! So if you want to get in there and you have something already written, e-mail it to me before the 29th of April.
Thanks!

The Last Chapter of the Wisdom Series

I've decided after I write about Proverbs chapter 9 that the wisdom series is over because beginning in chapter 10, Solomon talks about so many different sayings that my blogs would go on and on just trying to tackle one chapter! But feel free to continue to read them for yourself and remember the principles of wisdom, always eager to learn and change and applying these principles to your life.

Proverbs Chapter 9:
vs.1-6 Wisdom is open to everyone who need and desire it. Reach out to it and accept it's invitation in your life. (Don't ever think that it's too hard and don't ever be content with doing the wrong things)
vs. 7-9 A wise person don't waist time arguing, they teach those who desire to be taught and who are open to it. A wise person always desires to be taught.
vs.10-12 Wisdom begins with the Lord recognizing His greatness and ability and understanding His words. You will reap the benefits if you go toward the ways of wisdom.
13-18 Don't fall for what your flesh says is good, being wise is the way to good, satisfying life.

THANK YOU ALL WHO PARTICIPATED IN MY WISDOM SERIES. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU GOT ANYTHING OUT OF IT. ALSO ADD ANYTHING THAT YOU THINK I MISSED IN PROVERBS CHAPTER 9!

Wisdom Series ch 8

Open your Bibles to Proverbs Chapter 8 and continue the study with me into gaining wisdom.

You have to desire to be truly wise and to take the necessary steps to capture true wisdom in the Lord. Wisdom is the essence of life and what should be the goal of all the children of God. Vs. 1-5,17

When you seek and find wisdom you:
1.will say the right things at the right situations, only good things will come out of your mouth.(you don't put your foot in it.) vs. 6-8
2. will have true riches vs.10-11,18-19,21
3. hate evil and not find yourself tempted to it vs. 12-13
4. have power vs.14-16
5. Justice will prevail for you vs.20

Wisdom is possessed by God and in the very beginning of the world wisdom was established. vs.22-31
All those who strive for wisdom and listen to the words of God will be blessed and favored. vs. 32-36

DO YOU SEE ANYTHING ELSE? COMMENT AND LET ME KNOW! THANKS

Join the Army

I joined the best and strongest army a few days ago. I am now a prayer warrior with http://www.swpwarriors.com Since I signed up with them I have received e-mails from my brothers and sisters in Christ asking for prayers. It's something about lifting up others in prayer that make you feel so fufilled. Not only is this helping me talk to my Heavenly Father much more often but I have no choice but to get off of my problems and my life and focus on others. I think the best way to show love for someone is reaching out and praying and helping. I also like how most of the prayer requests come with e-mails so that you can offer a scripture, advice or a few words of encouragement. This website is truly a blessing. So stop by and sign up! Become a warrior in the praying army of the Lord!

Ephesians 6:18(NIV) "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints."

Wisdom Series chapters 6+7

I now continue with the study of Proverbs and gaining wisdom in our lives

In Proverbs Chapter 6 there 3 elements of having a wise life
1. Do no harm to others: in vs. 1-5 it talks about reconciling yourelf with your neighbor not to allow strife to continue. It says to humble yourself. I see this as ending the fight of who's right or wrong by taking the high road and just apologizing, a wise person does that. In chapter 6, vs. 12-14 a worthless man is one who scams others. "who winks with his eyes, signals with his feet, and points with his fingers" (nasb) A wise person wouldn't be involved in something that causes harm to others. 5 of the 7 things that "The Lord hates" are involved with hurting another; haughty eyes (thinking your are better, looking down on another)murder, lying, false witness(gossiper), and spreads strife.
2.Work Hard and Honestly: vs. 6-11 says that a wise person works like ant. An ant does what it has to without being told and works together with others for the greater good. I believe if you work hard where you are at instead of complaining about what you feel you deserve and how you hate what you do you are wise and will be rewarded for it. But if what you do is dishonest or causes problems with others you should find something else.
3. Love wisdom and listen to teaching(vs.20-23) and don't allow your flesh to trap you in thinking being a fool for a moment is better then working on having a long wise life. Don't be tempted by quick gratification as the man who longs for the adulterer in vs. 24-35

In Proverbs chapter 7, what's said is pretty much repeated, but I believe that this is because it's important. When you read this about being wise don't just nod your head and say "I really do need to work on that" but keep them and remember them and do them. It says in vs. 3, "Bind them on your fingers;write them on the tablet of your heart." In vs. 6-23 the picture of the harlot tempting a man into his doom is painted. This harlot is so beautiful and the opportunity seems so right but later this man faces pain. This ofcourse can be taken literally and God does want us to reframe from sexual sin but we can also see this as a metaphor for our weakness. What is your weakness holding you back from reaching full wisdom? Pray about it and don't fall for it. The devil might say that it's too hard but if you walk in the spirit of the Lord and read His words it becomes easy to conquer.

THANK YOU FOR READING! ANYTHING ELSE YOU SEE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDED FROM YOUR OWN LOOK AT PROVERBS 6+7? PLEASE COMMENT AND LET ME KNOW!

Wisdom Series ch5

I continue the study of Proverbs and gaining wisdom for our lives in Proverbs chapter 5:

After reading chapter 5, I get that we are to strive for the more long term wisdom and understanding instead of momentary gratification that ends up bringing misery and unsatisfaction. I see this in verses 3-14 when the scriptures speak of the adultress and the danger and misery that she brings. I believe this to not only mean the literal adultery but the choice of going for what you think feels good for the moment and doing the right things which will bring good in your life in the long term. The more you work toward the long term by using the elements of wisdom you become a wise person.

In verses 15-23 the scriptures speak of "drinking from your own cistern" and having your own wife satisfy you. I see this as saying enjoy what you have and what God has given you. Curve your desire to always have more because this will lead you away and make you unwise.

After looking at Proverbs chapter 5 does anything else come to you? Please comment! Thanks

What is your motive?

I was listening to my pastor's radio show yesterday, and this woman calls in asking why haven't she been blessed yet. She went down the list of her obedience and she was crying out wondering why God hasn't given her what she was owed by the scriptures. I couldn't help but feel bad for this woman. Not because she wasn't getting her way, but that she hasn't truly discovered gratefulness for God being God.

Yes, there are many promises of prosperity and blessing coming our way in the Bible if we ask and obey. But that shouldn't be your primary purpose for doing what you do. For an example, it says in the Bible to tithe and it will come back to you tenfold. But should that be the main reason you tithe? No, you should tithe because it's in God's word and obeying Him is a way that you can show love for Him and show how grateful you are that He saved you when you deserve so much worst. Whenever I pray, if I don't get what I ask right away I try not to let it get me down. Instead, I lift God up in praise. If I were to die tomorrow I would be truly satisfied because Jesus gave His life so that I can be with Him in heaven! And nothing else really matters!

I truly believe having this attitude is what will get you blessed by God. We all fall short and become disappointed but the more we stay strong and faithful the more we will be rewarded.

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety upon Him because He cares for you." 1 Peter 4:6-7

Wisdom Series ch4

Today I continue my series on gaining more wisdom for our lives from Proverbs chapter 4.

As a child should be obedient and attentative to their parents word's we should be that way with our Father God in heaven. We should trust the teaching of the Lord and love it. We should meditate on it and obey it. Keep His words in our heart and our minds and strive to find understanding when we are confused by it. Vs. 1-9

Wisdom equals full life. Full life is long, abundant, peaceful and smooth. The opposite will be the life of darkness, violence and confusion. Vs. 10-19

When your eyes are opened to wisdom don't close them. Always look towards being wise even when you make a mistake, acknowledge it, repent and come back. Try harder to conquer your weaknesses instead of accepting them and you will find health and happiness. Vs.20-26

There will be many choices and people in life who will come at you from one side or the other (the "left" or the "right") take neither. Take the words and the view of the Lord. Vs. 27

After reading Proverbs Chapter 4, did you get anything else? Please comment! Thanks

What Easter Promises you

Easter is more then fancy clothes and dyed and fried hair. Easter is an important holiday that celebrates the promise and gift from God given to you.
This world started with sin. We are all born in sin. In fact, homosexuals, thieves, murderers all start out the same way you did and will end up the same way you will if you don't accept the gift of Christ.
"For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23) You can't be good enough to go to heaven. No one is good enough. The wages of all sin is death. Whether you told a white lie, or you killed someone no sin is considered better then the other.
Fortunately for us God loves us as His children! He wanted a way for us to be able to come back to Him. So He sent His one perfect son, Jesus Christ, to take on our sins at the cross. Not only did He do that, but he bore stripes on His body for our healing and he was pierced in His side and shed blood for the forgiveness of our sins. That first good Friday may have been solemn but will be victorious for us all.
On Easter the tomb was rolled away and it was empty. Jesus arose from the dead with our victor over hell! We no longer are doomed to die because of our sins. Your Easter promise is this, "That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9)

HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY EVERYBODY! I WILL BE BACK MONDAY WITH THE FOURTH INSTALLMENT OF MY WISDOM SERIES! SO COME BACK AND LEARN MORE WAYS TO GAIN TRUE WISDOM IN YOUR LIFE!

Wisdom Series ch 3

I now continue with the study of Proverbs for gaining wisdom in our lives.

Proverbs Chapter 3

What you learn from the words of God whether in church, Bible, or through the spirit, use it and don't lose it. Vs. 1,3,21

Do not rely on your own teaching or the world's teaching but the teaching of God will bring true wisdom. Vs. 5-7,19-20,

You are wise when you are kind and loving to others around you and generous. vs. 3,9, 27-30

You have truly found wisdom when you enjoy being corrected and punished because you know it brings change for the better in your life. vs. 11-12

You are wise when you don't envy the ways of the world and the people who follow the world. vs.31-34

The benefits of wisdom:
long life vs. 2,16
Peace and happiness in your life vs. 2,17,18
find favor in God and others around you vs. 4
healing of your bodyvs. 8
you will be rich both physically and spiritually vs. 10,14-16
you will be secure free from fear and worry vs. 23-26
You will be honored vs. 35

Would you like to add anyting to proverbs chapter 3 please comment! thanks

When God says no

God always answers our prayers. Some unbelievers would say that they know people who prayers didn't get answered. But that's untrue. God always answers prayers just sometime the answer is no.

Why would the answer be no? Is it because God is punishing me? Not necessarily. Was God punishing Jesus when He prayed and asked for Him to remove the cup of responsibility of going to the cross from Him? (Luke 22:42) No. but Jesus also said "Not thy will, but thine be done."

We have to realize that God's will is for the best in our lives. We may think that God is far away at the moment because we didn't get what we wanted when we wanted but the truth of the matter is, He is closer to our lives then we are. He knows what we need better the we do and will continue take care of us the proper way.

Praise God that He didn't say yes to Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsename because of that, generations and generations of people can be saved through believing on the blood of Christ.

Wisdom Series ch2

I am continuing with the study of Proverbs and gaining wisdom for our lives...

Proverbs Chapter 2

Take in the words of God in your heart and in your actions. Ask and research to understand them correctly and implement them in your life. vs. 1-4

Wisdom starts with God, if what you learn is not a principle of the word of God it's not wise. vs. 6-8

When you have wisdom you can not be defeated by the enemy vs.8,11-16 and because of that you will continue to prosper and live a good life vs.5,20-22

Have anything else to add for Proverbs 2? please do in the comment section.

The Wisdom Series

I have been moved to study the book of Proverbs and delve into the study of gaining wisdom. I began to read and meditate on Proverbs chapters 1-3 and began to hear so much from the Holy Spirit that I decided to share my studies with all of you. I have greatly benefited already and I have just begun.

Proverbs are from the words of Solomon who had found favor with God and was given "a wise and discerning heart, so that there has been no one like you before you, nor shall one like you arise after you"(1 kings 3:12) With his wisdom that was given, he ruled a nation, maintained peace and built magnificent structures. Though Proverbs are mostly known for the small sayings that have been quoted here and there it has much more significance in our lives.

Chapter 1: There is no wisdom without fear of the Lord and faith in His words. Vs. 7, 29

Wisdom begins when you have the humility to know you need to learn. vs.3, 5, 8, 30

You have wisdom when you love to learn and look forward to improvement because you know what foolishness can bring. v. 10,22-29, 33 (Ignorance is not bliss)

You are wise when you strive for peace first in your life. v.11, 15,16, 18,19

You are wise when you are eager to share what you have learned v. 20,21, 23

Next I will study chapter 2. Please comment and add anything that you have learned from looking at chapter 1 of the book of Proverbs.

My April Issue!!!

My April Issue is out today!! It's dedicated to prayer. I know the national day of prayer is May 4th but I usually don't get my issues out until after the 4th so I decided to do my prayer issue this month. I showcase an excellent organization started by urban college students in Atlanta to promote change with prayer and is now a national tour! You can find out how to get involved in my issue. Also I have a great true testimony of how prayer saved a woman's life. The quiz is really great. You can find out how strong your faith is by how you react to different situations in life. I think, even adults need to evaluate this in their lives. So check it out at www.lulu.com/beyonditallmag

Thanks for working for me

You ever think about how it's not fair that people who work or live immorally and/or illegally can be so rich? We all have at one time thought how unfair it is that we are stuck saving and saving and they are out spending and spending.

Before you read further: this is not a post about how being rich on the inside is more important (even though it is) This is about God's promises to take the sinner's riches and give them to you!

Yes, in the Bible it says how God will take money out of the hand of the sinner and give it to the righteous. Let's turn to Job 27:16-17 "Though he heaps up silver like dust and clothes like piles of clay, what he lays up the righteous will wear, and the innocent will divide his silver." It doesn't stop there in Proverbs 13:22 it says"A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous." Just think about that. Do you believe that you not only can be financially blessed now but even in the future after you are gone? Start believing it. God is able to do more then you can imagine and He is using the sinner to provide it. "To the man who pleases Him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God."(Ecclesiastes 2:26)
What God did for the Israelites, He can do for you. "When the LORD your God brings you into the land he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, to give you a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant"

MY 100TH POST

COME CELEBRATE WITH ME, THIS IS MY 100th POST! I have really enjoyed writing this blog. At first I wasn't sure if I wanted to do a blog or If I was going to do good with it and then I was reading the Bible and came across the scriptures matthew 12:36-37 "But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment.
For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." At that very moment I felt the Holy spirit speaking to me.. use your words to give glory to Jesus. After that, I got on my computer and started this blog. I appreciate everyone's kind comments and uplifting e-mails. Below are links to my favorite posts. Please read the ones you haven't read before. And Comment!
God Bless!
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2006/03/where-to-take-your-opinions.html#links Where you need to take your opinions on various views

http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2006/02/blog-book-club.html -Join my book club

http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2006/02/end-race.html -Does race really matter?

http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2006/02/my-prayer-for-all-of-you.html -My special prayer for all my visitors at my blog

http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2006/01/erase-dividing-line.html Should we act above all those others who have past sins?

http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/12/two-gods.html -Which is the correct view of God? Angry and punishing or forgiving and loving?

http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/11/blog-favorites.html -This one will continue you to other links further back that are my favorites

"Acknowledging your mistakes proves you're wiser today then you were yesterday. If you never admit you're wrong, you're saying, I'm not growing. I'm not wiser."-Dr. John C Maxwell

Noah's Ark Found?

The article, Satellite Sleuth Closes in on Noah's ark mystery is an interesting one. A satellite has found an object large enough to be Noah's ark from the Bible. As there are always skeptics, I think it's beyond a coincidence that the object compares to "The Genesis blueprint of the Ark detailed the structure as 6:1 length to width ratio (300 cubits by 50 cubits). The anomaly, as viewed by satellite, is close to that 6:1 proportion." However, whether it is proven to be the ark or not I believe that the very essence of faith is knowing without needing proof. Do I need the ark to be found for me to believe that it existed? If scientists prove that this ark is Noah's ark without a doubt will I be satisfied? No definitely not, I'm already satisfied. When you live in the spirit and the spirit lives in you, you know that the Bible is the true words of God. No proof needed.

Get Ready...

Below is a copy of a letter sent to me. I am posting it because with the popularity of the Da Vinci Code book, the movie will be just as popular and will effect more people. Even though it's a work of fiction people tend to be inspired and even changed by certain things that they hear. We as Christians have to use the word of God to combat this and to discern the truth.


Are You Ready for the Da Vinci Code?May 19, 2006 could well touch off the most controversial period the Church has faced in years. Why? Because Dan Brown’s best-selling book, The Da Vinci Code will be released as a movie on May 19th starring Tom Hanks and directed by Ron Howard. We have an unprecedented opportunity to equip the body to answer the challenging questions this movie raises about Christ, his Word and the Church. If we approach this with skill and readiness, we can seize this opportunity to open compelling conversations with the lost.

Da Vinci Code Help from Josh McDowell Our friend, Josh McDowell, has produced several excellent resources to help you answer the tough questions raised by skeptics and segue into the real gospel. One is a 20-page mini-magazine created to be a companion guide to the movie. Another is his book, The Da Vinci Code - A Quest for Answers. For more info, go to www.davinciquest.org.

Da Vinci Code TractDa Vinci Code fans will fight for this one! This tract is twice the size of the million dollar bill and looks like a valuable collector’s item. Please don’t miss this opportunity to get the gospel into the hands of the unsaved. Get the tracts and take a team to the theaters. We have learned that the criteria for a good tract is “If we would like to give it out, so will you.” This is because in the past we have produced tracts that were creative, but we didn’t really feel excited about giving them out. However, when we saw this tract, we couldn’t wait to give it out.( Information taken from the Way of the Master and Living Waters NEWSBLAST.)

My Space

Last month I decided to start a myspace page http://www.myspace.com. If you don't know what that is, it's a website that gives mini-websites to people who can easily interact with each other . It has thousands of people mostly teens and young adults joined as well as famous musicians/actors (even though some aren't official and some are just fan clubs). I first heard about it through my younger sisters who are always on the computer sending messages and bulletins. I didn't think much of it until one day I walked into this coffee house and literally saw over half of the laptops logged onto myspace. After that, I thought that it would be a great venue to advertise for my magazine. So I started a page. One month later I have been contacted by over 100 talented people agreeing to help me out and my ideas. But the biggest blessing was this: The many many young people who have come to me proclaiming their love for Christ. It was a shock to me to see so many myspaces that are dedicated to having a relationship with God. Some as young as 12 and 13. It's an awesome thing to see the power of God running through these young people. I have read blogs full of wisdom (that put mine to shame!:-) and projects of encouragement. There are hip hop Christian music artists(such as the pic shown above), Rock and roll Christian music groups and so much more. I believe God is using the youth as well as-if not more-then adults to get the word out to the lost. Don't underestimate a group of teens you may see out on the street, they may be the very ones out their saving souls. 1 Timouthy 4:11

The above picture is one of my myspace friends promoting his Christian album.

Want to take a look at my myspace page? go to http://www.myspace.com/beyonditallmag

UPDATE: THE NPR PUT OUT A STORY ABOUT MYSPACE AND HOW A LARGE AMOUNT OF PEOPLE ARE USING IT TO ORGANIZE FOR POLITICAL CAUSES CHECK IT OUT.

My daughter in the newspaper

Read more about why my 4 yr old daughter was in the newspaper at http://www.thesecondlove.blogspot.com Above is a recent photo of her

Learning from an Atheist

I recently received a message from Way of the Master ministry via my myspace page http://www.myspace.com/evangelismresource in this message is a letter from an atheist originally posted by Ray comfort at his site http://www.livingwaters.com that actually sends an important message to all Christians. It's copied below

"You are really convinced that you've got all the answers. You've really got yourself tricked into believing that you're 100% right. Well, let me tell you just one thing. Do you consider yourself to be compassionate of other humans? If you're right, as you say you are, and you believe that, then how can you sleep at night? When you speak with me, you are speaking with someone who you believe is walking directly into eternal damnation, into an endless onslaught of horrendous pain which your 'loving' god created, yet you stand by and do nothing.If you believed one bit that thousands every day were falling into an eternal and unchangeable fate, you should be running the streets mad with rage at their blindness. That's equivalent to standing on a street corner and watching every person that passes you walk blindly directly into the path of a bus and die, yet you stand idly by and do nothing. You're just twiddling your thumbs, happy in the knowledge that one day that 'walk' signal will shine your way across the road.Think about it. Imagine the horrors Hell must have in store if the Bible is true. You're just going to allow that to happen and not care about saving anyone but yourself? If you're right then you're an uncaring, unemotional and purely selfish (expletive) that has no right to talk about subjects such as love and caring."

That letter is intense and mind blowing. How many of us know people in our job, school, family, neighborhood that aren't saved and that we have not tried to reach out to? Learn from this atheist's letter and care enough to reach out to others.

Blog Book Club Update

So far, I've had a few people e-mail me letting me know they are reading the book for my blog book club Dinner with a Perfect Stranger by David Gregory and that they are enjoying it. Please join in the fun! This book is very enriching and enjoyable. I blogged about it originally at http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2006/02/blog-book-club.html#links
Let me know when you get it and what you think!
I am also taking suggestions for the next book so if you know of a good one, let me know!

5 years of happiness?

My fifth wedding anniversary was 3-17-2006. Read my thoughts on five years of marriage at my family blog http://www.thesecondlove.blogspot.com

Where to take your Opinions

There are many viewpoints we can have on various issues. What many don't think about is once you become Christian your opinions should now come from Him. Are all your viewpoints biblically based? When you discuss things such as politics and race, do you have scriptures to back them up? It's hypocritical to preach and use scriptures for one belief but then not know how God feels about something else you feel strongly about. So how can you find out how God feels? Read the Bible and seek out His word. It says in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 "All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." Another good way is to ask in prayer, I find that when I'm confused on something I ask God and then I would go to church and the sermon will be about that very subject! I recognize that that is the Holy spirit speaking through my pastor right to me.
Once God comes to live in you, you become full of wisdom. Use the wisdom He gives you to live your life and staple your beliefs.

"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood." 1 John 4:4-6

Christian Cliques

We as Christians need to get rid of the "them and us" mentality. Although I do enjoy hanging out with Christians I don't hesitate to reach out to someone who is not. How else am I going to share the good news of Christ if I avoid homosexuals, thieves, atheists etc. If I meet someone and I hit it off with them and I witness, as long as they don't disrespect me and my views, I don't mind continuing to be friends with them. I believe my relationship with God is strong and I don't believe being friends with people who are unsaved will change me, on the contrary them being friends with me will change them. It says in 1 Peter 2:12 “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” How can they see the blessings in our lives that God brings us for being faithful to Him if we avoid them? Now I'm not saying to constantly surround yourself with people who are unsaved because being with your brothers and sisters in Christ helps you grow in your walk with Him. But don't find yourself always pointing your finger at people who don't know Christ and turning your nose up at them, all that do is show Christians in a more negative light.
"While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew's house, many tax collectors and "sinners" came and ate with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and 'sinners'?" On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." (Matthew 9:10-13)

Only a Fool Doubts

I confess, I had doubts today. Those little words that creep into my mind that says, what the heck are you doing? Do you know what is out there? Do you really think that your little measley magazine is going to change anything?
Why is having doubts bad? Because I hold onto faith. When you have faith you can't doubt. It's impossible to do both.
In the Bible it's called being double-minded. "But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." James 1:6-8
So you say what's wrong with thinking that I will receive? It's says in the above scripture not to think you will receive from the Lord. That's right, you shouldn't think, you should KNOW. Right away after you pray you should know you have received and let it go.
My pastor Gregory Dickow from LifeChangers Church(changinglives.org) Always says that taking the God's name in vain is more then what we think it is. It's not just saying "oh my god" but it's asking God for something and then doubting whether it will happen. You took the Wonderous name of God in vain when you asked for your bills to be paid and then the next day became sad because you don't know how it will happen. You should be happy. Celebrate that God will take care of it!
So back to me and my magazine and my doubts. I truly repent and believe that my magazine no matter how little it may seem now will be bigger and more succesful then the most well-known magazine out there. I believe it and I thank God for it!

MARCH ISSUE!!!!!

The March issue of Beyond it All Magazine is out today! This issue is dedicated to music and the cover story is a fascinating young woman named Anesha Birchett who is signed to a major record label (Darkchild/def Jam) who has dedicated her life to Christ and making music to celebrate him. I also didn't leave out those young adults who enjoy rock and there is a feature story on Afikomen a hot rock group who also loves Jesus. There is also a quiz on how a teen handles conflict and hopefully from that they realize how they can change their life through positive communication. there is so much more so please check it out at http://www.lulu.com/beyonditallmag

What's This Life Worth?

What’s the meaning of life, is the one infamous question that people say they wish they had the answer to.

That question is simple, it’s to get back to God in paradise and to bring others with us that don’t know Him personally.

This world originally was paradise. The Garden of Eden was the most beautiful and peaceful place and then we messed it up by allowing sin to come into our lives---Long story short, Jesus fixed it and now He wants us to live our lives loving Him and loving each other until it’s time to reclaim our prize.

The time we spend worrying, fighting, hating, is time we could be using to help bring others to God. When someone says they have to do what they have to do, for what? When this life ends, will it matter? Will all the money, jewelry, bling in the world matter when you get to heaven? Heaven is beyond what anyone can imagine, and certainly beyond what you can store up in your pockets.

Having faith in God to get what you need and take care of you while you worship Him is the key. When you put Him first and live your life knowing He is all that matters, He will make sure you are blessed, He will make sure that you grow and learn in your spiritual life so that you can help bring more of His children to Him.

What’s this life worth? It’s worth nothing unless you spend it in the glory of God.

"I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me -- the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."
Acts 20:24

Prayer is not Enough Sometimes

Ida is a Christian and she is wealthy. When she comes across various people who are having problems she tells them, "I will pray for you." and moves along. She feels she has done her duty in loving her fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. At night before bed she prays for those others and she doesn't worry. "God will take care of them," she believes and she goes to sleep.
Now some would say that Ida has strong faith knowing that her prayers are all she needs to do. But I believe that her faith maybe strong but it's not enough.

James 2:14-17(niv) says, " My brothers and sisters, what good is it if people claim they have faith but don't act like it? Can that kind of faith save them?
Suppose a brother or sister has no clothes or food. Suppose one of you says to them, "Go. I hope everything turns out fine for you. Keep warm. Eat well." And you do nothing about what they really need. Then what good have you done?
It is the same with faith. If it doesn't cause us to do something, it's dead. "

Now you may not be wealthy like Ida, but you can reach out and do what you say you believe. If you tell someone, "I'm believing for you that you find somewhere to stay" why not offer your home to them? Or if you are praying that your church find a bigger building or find more people to volunteer, why not give more in the collection on Sunday or volunteer your time? I'm not saying not to pray but you have to back up your faith with good works. Even if you say there is nothing that you can do to help that person, you can reach out and help them find someone who can help them.

We all fall short of this from time to time. Sometimes I will tell someone I will pray for you, and get home and realize that I can do more. Let's pray about this and then go out and act on it.

Hi Everyone!

What stands out

I know many has said, Telika what you say is ridiculous. You can't just go around loving everyone, you have to find a reason to love someone. They have to deserve your love.

Is that what God says? Is the greatest commandment to love one another or love those deserving of it? Let's look,

Mark 12:30-31 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. Love him with all your mind and with all your strength.'And here is the second one. 'Love your neighbor as you love yourself.' There is no commandment more important than these"

and in John 13:34-35 Jesus says, "I give you a new command. Love one another. You must love one another, just as I have loved you. If you love one another, everyone will know you are my disciples." How did Jesus love us? He sacrificed for us despite our sins. We were deserving of death and Jesus loved us enough to give us life eternally.

Still need to see more? Romans 13:9 sums up love as the ultimate rule to follow, "Here are some commandments to think about. "Do not commit adultery." "Do not commit murder." "Do not steal." "Do not want what belongs to others." These and other commandments are all included in one rule. Here's what it is. "Love your neighbor as you love yourself." Love does not harm its neighbor. So love does everything the law requires.

So when you are walking in love instead of debating, scoffing, judging, pointing your finger, and thinking you are better you are doing everything the law requires. All those rules and commandments in the Bible can be followed just by walking in love!

There are many more scriptures in the Bible that prove my point but I'm going to end on some well known and used ones that many use for weddings and have hung up on their walls but don't think about when they are faced with others that really rub them the wrong way.

1 Corinthians 13:1-8, 13
"Suppose I speak in the languages of human beings and of angels. If I don't have love, I am only a loud gong or a noisy cymbal. Suppose I have the gift of prophecy. Suppose I can understand all the secret things of God and know everything about him. And suppose I have enough faith to move mountains. If I don't have love, I am nothing at all. Suppose I give everything I have to poor people. And suppose I give my body to be burned. If I don't have love, I get nothing at all.
Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not want what belongs to others. It does not brag. It is not proud. It is not rude. It does not look out for its own interests. It does not easily become angry. It does not keep track of other people's wrongs.
Love is not happy with evil. But it is full of joy when the truth is spoken. It always protects. It always trusts. It always hopes. It never gives up.
Love never fails. But prophecy will pass away. Speaking in languages that had not been known before will end. And knowledge will pass away.
The three most important things to have are faith, hope and love. But the greatest of them is love. "

Recognize Your Power

Once you become a Christian you not only have eternal life through Jesus Christ, grace and forgiveness you are given power. Power to overcome your circumstances of sickness, sadness, attacks, oppression, weakness and so much more. This power is something you do not try and obtain, but you need to recognize you already have!

"Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God" 1 Corinthians 2:12. We have received which is past tense meaning it has already been given. It doesn't say we are to work hard to obtain. The scripture also says that we may know the things freely given to us. We need to know or recognize the power that is already in us.

I know I have used Ephesians 3:20 in many passages before but there is this one fact that many don't notice about the scripture "Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us" According to the power that works in us That is the power that is already in you not the power that you have to beg God for. We shouldn't beg God for anything anyway, because His love for us is so strong that all it takes is our faith and our patience and we will receive what we ask.

I end with this scripture of Jesus words in Mark 11: 24 "Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they shall be granted unto you.
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Blog Book Club

I just finished the most entertaining and interesting book I have read in a long time. Dinner with a Perfect Stranger by David Gregory is a book about an average man with a family and usual life problems who gets invited to dinner by Jesus Christ. He goes, thinking it's a joke and the dinner becomes the most enlightening and revolutionary discussion for Christians and non-Christians.
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The book is a short read, only 100 pages, but in those 100 pages David Gregory through the character of Jesus Christ, successfully and biblically talks about Christianity and how living with Jesus is the one and only way to live. In fact other religon's such as hinduism, buddhism, and Islam are picked apart in an intelligent manner

Here is one of my favorite exerpts, (Jesus says) "There is no path to God...What I mean is this: a path is something you travel down by your own effort to reach a destination. But there's no such path to God. There is nothing you can do to work your way to God. That path doesn't exist...God is like that, He's not interested in people trying to perform well enough for him. They can't. He created people to have a relationship with him, to enjoy his love. But humanity rejected God and severed that relationship. His program is putting it back together."

I took out the main character's responses and other things but you get the picture. I'm asking everyone who reads this blog go get this book and comment on it. I would like to keep this book club going. You can order the book and read a full exerpt at http://www.randomhouse.com/waterbrook/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9781578569052&view=excerpt
You can also read more information on the book at its website http://www.dinnerwithaperfectstranger.com At the website you can download question and answer sheets and scriptures that corresponds with what Jesus says during the dinner discussion.

Beyond It All February's Issue!

Finally the Feb issue is out. I take a very poignant view on love and sex and the truth in it. I wanted to step out of the box of popular magazines and not keep teens in the belief that they have to rush off and meet the love of their life or they are missing out on something. I also take a different direction from other Christian magazines who simply say don't do it, by adding in my own experiences and relating on their level. I love the quiz. I think that we don't encourage teens to volunteer as much and it's centered around what they would enjoy doing when helping someone else.

I have had some controversy from certain writers who I told to cool down the preachiness because I wanted my magazine to also appeal to non-Christian teens so that it could be avenue for them to find Christ themselves. But it's hard for some adults to truly relate to a teen and their problems without pointing their finger. God is everywhere and in everything we do and I like to take everyday situations and bring out a positive biblical solution to them without them outright knowing it. Don't get me wrong I do cite scripture and I do mention Jesus but it's not overwhelming.

Beyond It All

Below is the storefront for Beyond It All Magazine's Premier Issue dated January 2006
February's issue is around the corner. I will be posting that issue this Monday.
To order go to www.lulu.com/beyonditallmag
Thank you all for your prayers and support




Telika Howard
Welcome to Beyond IT All Magazine's Website. I am so excited about the first issue January 2006! In January's Issue: How are you coming off? Communicating what you need the right way. She'll Be sorry...The best way to get revenge, Model yourself:The best and worst role models. Get an instant makeover that changes your life. Order the one time 12.00 subscription on this website.(click on name below for credit card orders) You will then be sent issues from January to December as they come out. If you would like to order one magazine for 1.50 please order at wwww.beyonditallmag.50megs.com IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DONATE TO THIS MAGAZINE SEND CHECKS AND MONEY ORDERS TO 200 MCCOMB ST HARVARD, IL 60033 THANK YOU
Email:
telika8@elitemail.org
Web Site:
matthew1236.blogspot.com
Address:
200 mccomb st

harvard, Illinois 60033

United States

Beyond It All Magazine Bringing the teen above and beyond the problems of life by giving valid and inspiring information in an entertaining and informative manner. Each and every 13-18 year old who reads this magazine will walk away rejuvinated, uplifted, and educated. 12.00 for one full subscription.

All I am

If done correctly the song All I Am by gospel artist Kierra "Ki Ki" Sheard should be playing
http://media.emicmg.com/egd97304/audio/wma/60sec/100/108.asx



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This is the perfect song for this post because as a Christian you are sometimes seen as this greater person then others,when you really are not. All I am is someone who loves Jesus and has a relationship with Him and desire to share His words with others. What you need from God, I need. I am no better then anyone else, my sins are just washed by the blood of Jesus.

You are Good

God wants you to know that you are good. That He created you and that you don't need to live in guilt, constantly condemning yourself. Stop listening to the devil when he points out all of your failures.

I had to learn to look past my failures. It's easy to get caught up on what you haven't done correctly and give up. That's what satan wants you to do, to give up God and make you think that it's too hard. It's not too hard. It's only too hard when you make it that way. With God's grace He loves and forgives you. Through Jesus Christ you don't need to beat yourself up anymore.

Is that an excuse to do the wrong thing? No. But God knows your heart. He knows when you try to please Him. When you listen to His voice and speak with Him. In fact, the more you walk in the spirit you no longer desire to do the wrong thing anyway.

End the Race

I wonder when our spirits leave our bodies and we live in paradise with God and Christ will we be able tell what race was each spirit before Jesus called us home. Will there be debates in heaven that one spirit came from a certain race and therefore will have a poor corner of heaven? Or will God have us grouped apart by what bodies we had and what politics we followed and have a different love for the each of us. Ofcourse not!

So why do we act like this here on earth? Especially Christians should know better. So let's all get hung up on who's White and how they act or what they get or who's Black and what they deserve. God sees two kinds of people. Those who are His children and those who He desire to become His children.

Satan wants us to be hung up on the superficial so that we stop blessing others with the word of God. How many times you turned away from someone because of race or politics? When have you walked past a group of people and shook your head at them instead of coming by saying God loves you! Those people may reject you, but continue to pray for them and believe in the power of God.

It's sad to see so many blogs pulling people apart with their heated messages of condemning others. We all make mistakes. If someone wanted to focus on all the mistakes we make and write a blog about it, I bet they could. Let's bring together unity. Unity through Jesus Christ.

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:28

If you are not saved, change your life and become a blessed child of God by confessing Jesus Christ as Lord of your life.(e-mail me if you need more help becoming saved telika8@elitemail.org)

My prayer for all of you

Colossians 1:9-12 are great scriptures to pray for others. I use these scriptures to pray for friends, family, strangers, when I'm watching the news. (I'm always provoked to pray when I watch the news.) To me, these scriptures has the essence of everything you should desire for you fellow neighbors. It's also useful when you feel angry because of what someone else believe or how they act or if they treat you in an undesirable manner. Praying this prayer puts the problem with others in God's hands and eases the burden of the debate.

I will pray this prayer for all of my visitors of my blog

I ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, that you are bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowlege of God, strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. In Jesus Name Amen

Comments

Many of you e-mail me your wonderful comments about my blog. I really appreciate that but please leave your comments on this blog as well. Your comments may help and encourage someone else. Thank you.

Erase The Dividing Line

There are many issues Christians have over non-Christians such as abortion, politics, homosexuality, how to raise your family etc. Most Christians are so bent over proving their issues and snubbing their noses at non-Christians that they forget the ultimate goal of God. He loves all His children and He wants us to come to Him. We can not lead others to Christ by telling someone what they believe is stupid or shaming them for it. What they believe is apart of the sin that is still within them. Which is the same sin that was in you before you became saved. Which is also the same sin you still need to repent for in your walk with Christ. It may not be that specific sin but God sees sin the same so your sin is equal to their sin. "The wages of sin is death" All sin. We need to stop judging and start loving one another. If we lead others to Christ in a loving manner then everything else will come after.

The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. Galatians 5:14-15

Confession is everyday

My husband was raised catholic and he was telling me today how the one thing he did like about it was how he could talk about everything he did wrong (in confession) and not get in trouble for it. It's interesting how he felt that way and yet didn't realize all these years we have been Christian with no denomination that he had his own personal confession. He could confess to the king of kings and not be in trouble. Because of Jesus Christ we are not condemned for our sins. Because of Jesus, it's okay for people to come straight to God and confess their sins. There is no need for a imperfect human mediator. Jesus is the mediator. Jesus can be our mediator because He came to earth as the only perfect person and took on all our sins.

It's easy to forget that when you felt as if you done something terrible. You want to hide and hope God didn't see. But He did see, and if you ask, He will forgive.

Romans 8
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.

Get a Life

The phrase "Get a Life" is used to be hurtful to someone who doesn't do the things of the world. The person who is home on the weekends instead of out partying, the person who is not boozing, cursing or what the world calls "having fun" But those who give up their life receives a much better one in return. Jesus said, " everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first."(matthew 19:29-30) I don't believe Jesus means to forsake your family but He is saying those who put Him first in their life will have so much more meaning and blessing in their lives. Jesus also talks about the opposite of "getting a life" in matthew 10:39 "Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." As a Christian we need to learn to reach for what God wants us to do first in our relationships, money, family etc.

So how do we do this? It seems so hard to reject what is going on around us. But actually it is very simple. "So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature."(Galatians 5:16) When you live by the fruit of the spirit which is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith the strong desires of sin, the sin you struggle with, will begin to disappear. It will no longer be a battle. When you have love pouring out of you, you won't be able to help changing your life for Christ.

Following Jesus/MLK DAY

I know I am behind but I wanted to blog about Martin Luther King Jr. His birthday just passed and I was thinking about all the things he did to change the world. Martin Luther King is a respected and revered man all because he simply followed the words of Jesus. He was the epitome of WWJD (what would Jesus do) From his spiritually motivated speeches to his non-violent approach He followed the words of the king of kings and changed the world. So simply put we can all change the world in some way by reading the Bible and following the commandments of God, and His son Jesus Christ. Amen!

1 Peter 2:21+23 "To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly."

Attacked on Every Side

I have been attacked every since I started this magazine. It is complete but because of constant technical difficulty and financial difficulty it will have to be put on hold. I was promised a certain amount of money and I never received it . Also the money I did have set aside was stolen from someone I thought I could trust. Am I crying about this? Am I screaming and yelling why? No. I am holding on to my faith that God is a good God and He will come through on His plan. His time is the right time and all I have to do is wait on Him. I praise God now and thank HIm for what is going to do with Beyond It All Magazine. It will touch millions of teens lives and bring them to the love of Jesus Christ. This magazine will be successful and will glorify God. I am not afraid.

"We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body" 2nd corinthinas 4:8-10

The Miners

I had to repent for my stubborness this morning. I didn't want to blog about the tragic mining story. What was I going to write? was what I asked God after the third or fourth time it was put on my heart to blog about The Miners who were trapped and then killed in the mines of West Virginia. After seeing so many pray for the miners the tragic ending is baffling. But after persistence I let go and allow God to give me the words to write.

We should all pray for the comfort of those people and that they have faith that their tragedy will be used. God always has a plan and it's good. In 2nd Corinthians 1:3-7 it says, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort."

Suffering is sometimes something a believer can not avoid. But we can always trust that if we keep out faith that our lives are enriched by our pain and that God will bring us through and use us to glorify the kingdom.

Staying in 2nd Corinthians let's also focus on the passage in chapter 6:4-10, "Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; thinhaving nothing, and yet possessing everything."

As we can see the scripture above states a long list of tragic things that can happen and test our faith and love of God. Instead of questioning why things happen, pray that those suffering will be used and continually blessed.

The Christians Contradiction

So many of us as Christians contradict ourselves. We believe God is capable to do all things and that He loves us and yet we doubt when receive the bills or we turn away from what we truly desire to do because it won't bring in enough money. Most of our goals in life our money oriented. We see that the world requires money so we spend our lives trying to acquire more of it. We complain when the government don't give us enough or make us pay too much. If we truly believe that God loves us and desires the best for us why are we so obsessed?

So you say, C'mon not worry about getting money? There are too many things I need, That's just impossible. Luke 18:27 says that "things which are impossible with men are possible with God." So why can't we believe in awesome things when we have an awesome God? Why is it so hard to believe that if we truly seek Him he will gi ve us the desires of our heart" (Psalm 37:4)

As most of you know, I am a mother of four, I am also young. Me and my husband had to live off of faith many times. We had to truly believe God's word, "be content with such things as you have, I will never leave the nor forsake thee," (Hebrews 13:5.) even if it meant that we had to be happy with our small rabbit ear television and our tiny apartment. I can't tell you how many times money would just appear. Once someone jsut came and dropped off 500.00 in an envelope before with just our names on the front. Now I am a college graduate and we live in a large home. I refused to worry myself grey over money and how we were going to get taken care of. Not that I never worried, and I believe the times I did lose faith were the times that we struggled the most until I remembered to reach back toward God again. Thank God He never turned away.

Now I'm not saying to never work or that it's wrong to desire to gain. But when you do make sure you do it for the Lord. Seek his guide and counsel. Make sure what you do pleases Him and do good works for others. It says in 1 Timouthy 6:17-19,
"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is eternal."

Happy Birthday Jesus!

I want to take this blog to wish Jesus a Happy Birthday and I hope you all do too. Wish Him a happy birthday by witnessing to your worst enemy or someone you don't particularly like. Wish Him a happy birthday by trying your best to change a bad habit just to please Him and His Father more. Wish Him a happy birthday by not fighting, being sarcastic or cynical. Wish Him a happy birthday by tolerating your family members. Wish Him a happy birthday by exercising your faith that He will take care of you instead of worrying about money or gifts and exercising your faith that the unbelievers in this world will eventually bow and worship His name! Wish Him a Happy Birthday by praying, and praising His name! Glory be to God!

Two Gods?

The biggest division amongst Christians seemed to be the punishment factor of God. In the Bible there seemed to be two different Gods. One, a punishing vengeful God who strikes down those who turn from Him and the forgiving, always loving God who sent His son Jesus to die for the sinner. Out of this came two kinds of Christians, the condemning Christian who feels anyone who leads a life of sin should be reprimanded and deeply punished and the kind Christian who teaches others to welcome sinners with open arms.

There is only one Great God who does love us as a Father, but will punish us like a loving father would punish His wayward children. But I believe that the decisions of people's punishments should be left up to God. I'm thinking of the story of Paul. Paul killed many people just because they were Christian. If it was decided that he was to be put to death then God wouldn't have had His chance to change Paul they way he had. He struck Paul with a blinding light (literally blinding) and told him that He was real and the He was persecuting Him. After God forgave Paul, He didn't put Paul to death but put him to use. Paul was given the ability to teach, heal and cast out demons! Paul is one of the profits in the Bible who we still learn from today. This is an awesome thought that many condemning Christians don't think about!

So what is my point? I believe that people should not condemn one another but leave the decision of punishment or redemption up to God. Also, even if someone is put to death, if they accept Jesus Christ and truly desire Him in their heart, they will go to heaven no matter how bad a crime they committed.

No Big Deal

Everyone's all abuzz about the recent backlash against Christmas. Certian politicians are telling people to say Happy Holidays and to take Christian elements out of a holday that was meant for Jesus Christ. I think as Christians instead of fighting about it and telling people that it's our way or the highway, we should be sharing the love of Christ EVEN MORE by loving each other. No one can close our mouths. So go out and tell people Jesus loves them! Don't let anyone spoil this season by causing anger and strife. I believe that is exactly what Satan wants. He is not trying to stop Christmas from non-believers, he is trying to distract Christians from sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Don't let a few opinions, stop you!

Destiny?

The question of destiny. That's what came up when I was speaking with my sister. So many believe the way she does. That our lives are already set and there's nothing you can do about changing it. What does God say? Does He have our lives already planned out, or do we have control?

In Romans 8:29-30 it says, ^"For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified."

I believe this to mean that before we were born God had a destiny for us to be like Jesus and that He has a plan for each one of us in our lives.

However, it also says in Philippians 3:18-20, "For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things. "

I believe this to say that people do have the choice to not believe and to turn away from God and change their destiny to destroy themselves.

So, is my sister and so many others right about destiny? Can we party hard since we are all going to die anyway? No. God has given each one of us a choice of paths in life. It's that proverbial "fork in the road" in front of us all the time. We can choose His way which leads to blessings and peace and the fulfillment of His calling on our lives or we can turn away and make things hopeless and hard for ourselves. Don't get me wrong, you will make mistakes as you travel the right path toward God but His forgiveness and love is there for you. Just don't give up and allow the devil to make you feel like you are meant to be a sinner.
We are all destined to be loved by God.

Donations

My magazine process is going really great God's hand is on the process. I was looking for anyone who would like to make a monetary donation toward the production. If you would please contact me by e-mail. I will send you a full synopsis of the magazine detailing all that I plan for it to accomplish as well as a detailed budget. If you can help it will be greatly appreciated. I am also in the process of filling out a 501c3 application so that the magazine will be deemed non-profit and your gifts will be tax deductible. Thank you. Contact me telika8@elitemail.org copy telika@tidni.com just in case. Call me 815-477-7358 leave a message if I'm not home.

Everyone's Dirty Little Secrets

I was watching the Today show and there was a segment about a man who asked for people to send him their secrets. He received thousands of secrets on postcards and in letters just from that simple request. He put the secrets on his website which received thousands of hits. He has a book published from the secrets and there was even a song spawned from it. I was wondering why so many people felt the need to share their secrets with a total stranger. Were they bound up with them and glad to let them go? The anchor on the show said that everyone has a dirty little secret. I disagree, no one does. Because God knows. You can't hide from God. He knows what you done, He knows all of your shame, hurt and guilt. He wants to take all of those secrets and not make money off of them but eliminate them. His love for you is so strong that He sent His son to die and take on all of your sins. Yes, all those dirty secrets that you may feel that you have locked inside preventing you from leading a happy and fulfilling life. You don't have to be condemned anymore!

"He reveals deep and hidden things; He knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with Him" Daniel 2:22

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

Sorry I've been away!

Hello everyone,
I'm sorry there hasn't been an entry in awhile besides the fact that I have been on vacation and busy with a few projects I also have been having problems with my computer. I couldn't load certain pages on my computer such as the blogger site! Now that's resolved, I should be blogging more often.

Techinical Difficultes

Really quick, I am having techinical difficulties as far as my email so if anyone is trying to get in touch with me at telika8@elitemail.org please e-mail me at telika@tidni.com Thank you.

Old and New all for You

I found that there are many Christians who disregard the Old Testament. They say that the New Testament is the important part because that's where Jesus came to set everyone straight. I disagree. I believe that God wants us to take in account the whole Bible. The first laws and the first people of God are important to know. We all know that Jesus quoted the old testament in His teaching and when He was being tempted. So that means He found all the words of God in the Bible important. In fact, He felt that was how we should live. In Matthew 4:4 He says, "It is written, man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." The Old Testament is made up of the words that proceeded from the mouth of God!

However, I also believe that God has changed the way His people used to live. By sacrificing His son, he made things less complicated to be with Him. In the Old Testament, His people had to sacrifice animals to make atonement, we no longer have to do that. In the Old Testament they had to live strictly to every law and found that they couldn't because man was made imperfect through the sins of Adam and Eve. The demands to live out every law perfectly is gone. You will no longer go to Hell if you sin, if you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. There are also religions who do the opposite. They put too much emphasis on the Old Testament laws and make people feel too inadequate for God. They tell people that they are condemned until they live a life of solitude. Obedience is the result of being saved not the basis on which we are saved. Once we accept Christ, His love in us will cause us to become obedient to His word and Laws. If we try to do everything in the Bible perfectly without Him in our lives, we will fail and then become discouraged. That discouragement is what causes many Christians to turn astray.

Turn Off The Stereo

How many of us look at the certain way some one dresses, talks, walks or their race, family, religion and judge? Before you say, "no definitely not me" think about all those times you assumed negatively about someone. What did you base that assumption on? Your eyes. It had to be your eyes because you don't truly know that person. Know one truly knows anyone like God knows us and yet He loves us despite it all. He sees us all as His children and desires for all of us to be with Him. Does God look at someone and say, "He is a thug so that means He has no hope and therefore I won't bless him." No, Thank Him that he doesn't! Does He look at people who come over to America from other countries and say, Go back where you came from you don't belong to blessed America? No way! He loves the whole world! He sees people sins in other countries the same way He sees the sins of people in America. He sees His children fallen away from Him. He sees His children that He sent His perfect son to die for. He sees the ones He desires to bless, and help and teach. The time we spend judging because of someone's differences, the time we spend arguing because of someone's politics, we could be leading them to Christ. No one knows when Jesus will come back. Wouldn't it be better to lead immigrants to Christ, then shake your head and complain about them being in America? Wouldn't it be better to save someone who feels like life is hopeless then tell them that they ought to be ashamed for being a democrat, or republican or whatever?

How many are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures (Psalm 104:24)

Therefore as by the offence of one judgement came upon all men(mankind) to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of One (Jesus) the free gift came upon all men to justification of life. Romans 5:18

Blog Favorites

I was checking my site statistics (http://www.sitemeter.com) and it said that I have had over 1000 visitors! That's not too shabby for a blog that's been out for only 6 months! I thank God for being with me and blessing me through my keyboard. I know my blog isn't the most edited in the world, but that is because I get an idea from the Holy Spirit in the middle of whatever I'm doing and I just type it up. I try to scan over it for any major errors but the small ones usually get through. Anyway, below is a list of my favorite blogs in no particular order. Please try to visit them all they are interesting and close to my heart. Thank you all for coming to visit! (To the right, is a recent picture of me.)

http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/06/teens-view.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/06/all-of-us.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/05/two-sides-of-same-mirror.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/06/faith-vs-fear.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/07/religiousreligionrelationship.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/07/religiousreligionrelationship.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/07/greatest-commandment.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/08/my-confessions.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/08/talk-and-teach.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/09/inevitably-insignificant-actionspoem.html
http://matthew1236.blogspot.com/2005/09/in-morning.html