Cosmetics, Jewelry, Fitted Clothing--God's Take

1 Timothy 2:9-10 In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness with good works. (NKJV)

          Just recently, singer (Rihanna) stirred up a media frenzy with regards to a dress (I use the term loosely) that she wore to the Guy’s Choice Awards. The shock and reaction from many brought about all kinds of talk concerning what was and wasn’t appropriate for stars to wear. Prior to this controversy, gospel artist, Erica Campbell, from the duo MaryMary stirred up controversy as well concerning a white dress (even though fully covered) she had worn on the cover of her most recent CD. Both of these artists are considered top notch in their own musical genres and yet, the clothing that they wore, although it went from one extreme to another, stirred up a range of emotions, gossip, news ratings, and tweets. The question presented was: “What is appropriate attire?”

          Back in the 80’s and 90’s, Tammy Faye Baker, ex-wife to Pastor Jim Baker, was well-known for her choice of excessive makeup. She loved her colorful cosmetics and obviously didn’t mind the world knowing it. Despite the outward display of color, she seemed to had been a beautiful person with a big heart. However, many people often passed judgement in the media with regards to the way she looked and dressed. Where they right or wrong? Only God knows, but one thing for sure--God judges the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as a man sees; for a man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. (NKJV)

          However, most people, especially Christians may have to beware of the choices in makeup and clothes that they wear because many tend to condemn, and compare those who partake in sexy clothing, jewelry, and/or colorful cosmetics to the likes of the Joker in Batman or even the harlot of Revelation. Now, this is a little extreme, but some will make you feel that you are sinning when you wear cosmetics because you obviously look like the Joker (in their eyes). But, what does God have to say about this? Is it wrong to wear cosmetics and jewelry? Jeremiah 4:30 "And when you are plundered, What will you do? Though you clothe yourself in crimson, though you adorn yourself with ornaments of gold, though you enlarge your eyes with paint, in vain you will make yourself fair; your lovers will despise you; they will seek your life. (NKJV) Now, some may say that this scripture refers to it being a sin for women to wear cosmetics, but what was going on during this time when God had said this? If you read the chapters and verses ahead, you will find that Israel had been disobedient and had fallen back into idolatry and therefore, God was handing down punishment onto Israel for their disobedience and unfaithfulness to Him. This verse was referring to the time that Israel was being punished and reprimanded by God.  

          

          Now, some people and/or religions refer to Isaiah 3:16-23 as the scripture which makes it a sin to wear jewelry and cosmetics. (Moreover the Lord says: "Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with outstretched necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they go, making a jingling with their feet, therefore the Lord will strike with a scab the crown of the heard of the daughters of Zion, an the lord will uncover their secret parts." In that day the Lord will take away the finery: The jingling anklets, the scarves, and the crescents; The pendants, the bracelets, and the veils; The headdresses, the leg ornaments, and the headbands; The perfume boxes, the charms, and the rings; The nose jewels, the festal apparel, and the mantles; The outer garments, the purses, and the mirrors; The fine linen, the turbans, and the robes.{NKJV}) Once again, Israel had fallen into idolatry in this text even prior to the one used in Jeremiah and God as a reprimand for the seductive and adulterous ways, told them that He would take these items away from them. 

          However, does what a person wear really determines their relationship with God? Can you look at a person and see that they are a Christian? Jezebel has been used as a foundation for some religions to say that the outer adornment is a sin in God's eyes. 

2 Kings 9:30 Now when Jehu had come to Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it: and she put paint on her eyes and adorned her head, and looked through a window. (NKJV) If you study the context of when this particular verse was written and the things that were taking place during that time, you will find that Jezebel was wicked and had been killing God's prophets. Elijah had even hid from her because of the wrath that she bestowed on anyone of God. Therefore, she was not killed because she adorned herself (even though she seemed to have been trying to seduce Jehu) she was killed because of her wickedness. Her reign of evil had run out on God's clock and Jehu was the one used to bring it all to a halt. So are Christians supposed to look like the rest of the world, which seemingly believes that less is best? 

          Absolutely not! Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (NKJV) We have to be in the world, but we do not have to resemble the world in the ways that are not of God. There is nothing wrong with having nice clothes and modest adornment. However, if your motives are in the wrong place, then that's when it becomes a sin for YOU. So, if a woman is dressing to get negative attention from men...that would be a sin. When we read the story of Esther in the Bible, she was required to get prepared outwardly to meet the king. Esther 2:12 Each young woman's turn came to go in to King Ahasuerus after she had completed twelve months' preparation, according to the regulations for the women, for thus were the days of their preparation apportioned: six months with oil of myrrh, and six months with perfumes and preparations for beautifying women. (NKJV) Esther could not go before the king any kind of way. She had to look and smell good. God had a greater purpose for her being in the kingdom, which was to save His people from being slaughtered. In order to do that, she had to prepare herself in ways to receive the attention of the king. 

          God doesn't require that women need to look like bats to prove that they are holy. It is all about the heart and the true intent of the individual. Just because a person decides to not wear cosmetics does not make them fit for the kingdom. There are many plain-faced devils that are going straight to hell. Therefore, it is a heart condition and not a wardrobe malfunction. Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. (NKJV) 

        There is a way that the world thinks is right, and then there is a way that is right unto God. We should be careful that whatever we do, it glorifies God and never puts our representation of Him into question. Makeup is not going to send you to hell. Jewelry is not going to send you to hell. Clothing is not going to send you to hell. However, what you do with these items can send you to hell. Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death. (NKJV) We must ask God for direction in all that we do. If there is a question concerning anything within us, God will help us to know what is pleasing in His eyes. 

Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (NKJV) The main clothing that we should wear should be that of God. When this is worn, all else will fall into place. Be blessed!

The Weight of Weights by K L Rich

Pagan Holidays

Colossians 2:8 Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. (NKJV)

Romans 14:5-6 One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it. He who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks; and he who does not eat, to the Lord he does not eat; and gives God thanks. (NKJV)

            A few years ago, I was running a home-based daycare business and I had children of all ages, race, backgrounds and beliefs. I loved to teach the children various educational subjects along with arts and crafts. During the holidays, we would make all kinds of nice décor and I would purchase candy and gifts to send home with them; especially around Christmas and Easter. However, one of my clients informed me that she and her family were Jehovah Witness and that her son couldn’t participate in the various holiday crafts that I had the other children doing. Therefore, I found him some other types of crafts to do, so that it wouldn’t go against his religious beliefs. She also gave me a paper which went into detail why they didn’t celebrate the holidays. This is where my curiosity began.

            As I began to read over the sheet, I noticed that all the holidays stemmed from pagan origin. Now, I knew that most of them did prior to reading this, but I decided to do my own research into some of the holidays, so that I would have a better understanding myself. I never condemned the Jehovah Witness about their holiday beliefs even prior to doing extensive research because I knew that it had a lot of truth to it. However, after doing the research, I understood a whole lot more as to why they disassociated themselves with the holidays altogether. Although I still celebrate the holiday season, I do it full aware of the history behind it and therefore, it has taken on a different meaning for me because of my eyes being opened to its truth.

For the sake of time, I will not be able to go in depth and give as much history as I would like on this blog, but I hope to give you enough information as to why some religions do not celebrate these holidays and allow you to determine for yourself if it is for you. This is just for informational purposes and is not to say that observance of any of these holidays is a sin. YOU be the judge, and you must be convinced in your own mind as to if this information is for you. Many religions teach that some holidays are wrong to be observed and this “may” be the case. However, in their observance of other holidays that have the same origin, it “may” be a little hypocritical to condemn some and not others.  Even if a particular holiday isn’t observed, if you are trying your best to imitate that holiday in any way, aren’t you still observing it? Hmmm….

Origins of Christmas

Christmas was first recognized as an official holiday under the Roman emperor Justinian  (A.D. 527-565). December 25 in ancient Rome was “Dies Natali Invictus” which stands for the “birthday of the unconquered,” the day of the winter solace, and the last day of the Saturnalia, which was part of a week’s long festival of unrestrained partying. During these celebrations, the pagans had a long week full of drunkenness, gambling, gluttony, nudity and sexual orgies. However, it is said that the Christians were appalled by the week’s long sinful attitudes of the pagans and therefore, wanted to find a way to encourage them to convert to Christianity. In an attempt to do so, they decided to modify the original pagan holiday into one that incorporated Christ. In so doing, they could appease the pagans by not totally taking away their desire for celebrations during that season of the year. Therefore, for the sake of accommodation, Christ was thrown into a pagan holiday and the celebration of it continues. (Please be mindful that this is a real condensed version for the sake of this blog and more history is behind this holiday).

Easter (Resurrection Sunday)

Ishtar (Easter) was a day that was set aside by the pagans to honor one of their gods Tummuz. This god was believed to be the son of the moon-goddess and sun-god. Nimrod, Noah’s grandson born to Cush (Ham’s son) and his wife Sermiramis. Nimrod was said to had become a king and married his own mother.

Genesis 10:8-12 Cush begot Nimrod; he began to be a mighty one on the earth. He was a mighty hunter before the Lord; therefore it is said, “Like Nimrod the might hunter before the Lord,” And the beginning of his kingdom was Babel, Erech, Accad, and Caineh, in the land of Shinar. From that land, he went to Assyria and built Neneveh, Rehoboth Ir, Calah, and Resen between Nineveh and Calah Ithat is the principal city). (NKJV)

Nimrod was said to had been killed and his body cut into pieces and sent throughout his kingdom, with the exception of his reproductive organ. Semiramis (Nimrod’s wife and mother) told the people that he had become the sun god, Baal, and could not come back to life without his missing organ. She later claimed that she had conceived a child by immaculate conception and taught that the moon goddess went through a 28 day cycle and ovulated when full. She also claimed that she (being the goddess herself) came down in the form of a giant moon egg, which fell into the Euphrates River after the spring equinox.  This is how Semiramis became known as Ishtar (Easter) and her “moon” egg was known as Ishtar’s (Easter) egg. (There is more to this story, but due to the sake of blogging, I will have to end it here.)

Halloween

Halloween (All Hallow’s Eve) has its origin from the Celtic festival known as Samhain. The ancient pagans used this time of year to go into their stock of supplies to prepare for the winter. They believed that on October 31, the worlds between the dead and the living would overlap therefore causing all kinds of havoc upon the living such as disease and crop damage. During this time, bonfires would be held to attract mosquitoes and then bats. In an effort to appease the spirits and to blend in, the wearing of costumes became the norm. The practice of going door to door for candy began back in the Middle Ages, which also included Christmas wassailing (going door to door singing Christmas Carols). The trick-or-treat practice copies the common practice of “souling”. This was when the poor would go door to door on Hallowmas (November 1) to receive food in exchange for their prayers for the dead on November 2 (All Souls Day).  (This is a condensed version for the sake of time on this blog.)

            Unfortunately, I cannot get into the entire history of these holidays on this one blog and will do a part 2 in an upcoming blog. However, as for now, I will suggest that if you would like to learn more about the origins of these holidays, you can do so online or at your local library. What I will say for now is that the majority of the holidays that we celebrate have pagan origins. Many religions are quick to tell you not to celebrate Halloween, while still mimicking the same practices by having “Harvest Celebrations” at their local church. Now, I am not saying that it is a sin to celebrate holidays. What I would like to bring attention to is the fact that even if we change the names and call it something else, we are still following the same pagan practices. Let’s be real! We can’t clothe the devil up and call him Christ. Isn’t that what we are doing when we through God into holidays that were actually demonic of origin?

            Don’t get me wrong, I am not going to stop celebrating the holidays because I love to do so. However, I am very realistic with my celebrations because I know the origins of them. Therefore, I will not tell anyone that Christmas is in originally in honor of the Savior when it really had nothing to do with Christ at all. What I will tell them is that we (Christians) in an effort to continue “tradition” has set aside this day in what many would consider honoring Christ. However, to honor God is to honor Him EVERY DAY of the year. God doesn’t just want us to remember Him on man-made holidays, which have become so commercialized that even if it was originally for Him, we have taken all aspects of that away due to greed, increased profits, and selfishness. To be honest, there is no difference in celebrating Halloween and Christmas. They stem back to the same demonic origins and even by changing the name doesn’t make it holy. If you imitate the devil, he then has you deceived. However, let each man be convicted in his own heart and therefore, whatever you do, do it unto God.  Look forward to Part 2 of this.

Hell...Real Facts in a Blind World!

Revelation 20:15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire. (NIV)

          Hell! What is it? Where is it? Is it real or is it a figment of many people’s imagination? Does it actually exist? If so, what was it created for? Why would God send people there if He’s loving and merciful? These are some of the questions that come to people’s mind when they think or hear the word “Hell.” There are various theories and teachings on the subject of hell fire. However, how can you distinguish fact from fiction? Let’s dig in so that we can explore what God has to say about this topic.  

          Hell is a place of fiery flames. Matthew 25:41 “then He will also say to those on the left hand, “Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. (NKJV) Whenever we hear the sound of sirens on a fire truck, we automatically know that it is not a good thing. We know that some building, house, or structure is possibly in flames. What do flames do? They destroy whatever they come in contact with. When a structure catches on fire, there is plenty of smoke, smog, and heat, which requires water in most cases to put it out unless it is an electrical fire. The fire fighters have on protective gear and carry hoses to release water from the nearest fire hydrant onto the burning structure. They also play a role in keeping onlookers back to prevent injuries and/or death. Fire fighters, as part of their job, try to save those who may be trapped inside in order to get them to safety. 

          Unlike the fire that can be extinguished by way of water, hell fire is quite different. There is no extinguishing of hell fire. Water cannot put it out or any type of man-made solution. Hell is unresponsive to a fire extinguisher. Mark 9:43-44 If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed, rather than having two hands, to go to hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched—where ‘Their Worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.’” (NKJV) There is no way to make the fires of hell shut off or cool down. It is a place where destruction is guaranteed, but not in the same manner as a regular fire. 
Where is hell located? Isaiah 14:9 “Hell from beneath is excited about you…” (NKJV), Revelation 9:2-3 And he opened the bottomless pit, and smoke arose out of the pit like the smoke of a great furnace. So the sun and the air were darkened because of the smoke of the pit. Then out of the smoke locusts came upon the earth. And to them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. (NKJV) Hell is below the inner surface of the earth. The great ‘pit’ would only need to be 100 miles or less in diameter to contain, with much room to spare, all the 40 billion or so people who have ever lived, assuming their ‘spiritual’ bodies are the same size as their physical bodies.” (Henry M. Morris, The Bible Has the Answer, p. 220.) Scientist believe that earth’s center core has a temperature of 12,000 degrees Fahrenheit. So many people feel that hell is not a literal place, but a figment of people’s imagination and/or the condition in which they already find themselves on earth while still alive. However, this does not line up with what the Bible says.

So, what is hell like? Matthew 8:12 “But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” (NKJV) This is not a place that anyone wants to go. It will be the most horrifying experience that anyone has encountered. There will be no fun. There will be no vacation spots. This will not be Party Central. This will be a place of misery, sorry, tears, pain, and anguish. It will literally be a person’s worst nightmare, but in the real sense of the word. Psalms 9:17 The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. (NKJV) Can you imagine being turned into hell? What does this mean? I believe that when a person goes to hell, it is so horrible, that it becomes a part of them. They can’t escape. There is not pardon. There is not water to quench their thirst. It likened unto someone who has been in a smoke-filled room and the stench from it is left on their body and clothes. There is no way to get away from it. That’s what hell is like. 

Who is going to hell? 2 Peter 2:1,4-7 But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment; and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly; and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an example to those who afterward would live ungodly; and delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked…(NKJV) This scripture is letting us know that if God destroyed those sinning in the days of old, He is going to do the same thing again. Revelation 21:8 “But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” (NKJV) There are many sins, if left unrepentant, will cause people to go to hell.  Sin cannot enter heaven and therefore, we must confess our sins to God in order to avoid eternal damnation. 

Who was hell created for? Hell was created for the devil and his angels. Matthew 25:41 It was never meant to be for the human race. However, due to sin, it will include those who are disobedient to God. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NKJV) God does not wish for anyone to perish, but wants all of us to be repent and be saved. 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.(NKJV)

God sent His son, Jesus, to die on the cross to save us from our sins. We have the option to either choose God or the enemy. He wants us to be a part of His Heavenly family. John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. (NKJV) Repent and turn your life to Christ. He is knocking at the door of your heart. He loves you and is patiently waiting for you to turn your life over to Him. Why don’t you give Him your life today? Revelation 3:20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. (NIV)

The Weight of Weights by K L Rich will be available on Amazon.com and Lulu.com June 23, 2014. What Weights do you need to RELEASE? 

Pre-Tribulation Rapture?

1 Thessalonians 4:16  For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first, then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. (NKJV)

The Rapture! Many movies have been made in Hollywood with regards to people disappearing and others being left behind. All throughout the country, Christians are being taught that there will be a pre-tribulation rapture. This means that the Saints of God will not have to endure persecution during end times. However, is this sound doctrine, or is this a myth to make people relax about events that will befall our nation? Let’s see if this belief lines up with the Word of God.

Matthew 24:29-31 “Immediately AFTER the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” (NKJV) Now who are these “elect” that the angels will gather AFTER the tribulation? Well, first let’s see who the “elect” are.

1.)  Matthew 24:24 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.

2.)  Mark 13:22 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show signs and wonders to deceive, if possible even the elect.

3.)  Romans 9:11 For the children not yet being born, nor having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works but of Him who calls.

I would say that the “elect” are those who have chosen to follow God. So if the elect are those who follow God, then Matthew 24:29-31 is speaking of God’s people being gathered together AFTER the tribulation. So why is it that so many Christians are being taught pre-tribulation rapture? Revelation 3:10 Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. (NKJV) Maybe some have taken this text to mean that Christians will not have to endure the Great Tribulation. However, in this scripture, it seems as if it was addressed to the church of Philadelphia. Due to Laodicea being the last church to be addressed in this chapter and the state of the current condition for many within the body of Christ, it may be safe to say that this particular verse is not saying that we will bypass all of the world’s tribulations.

            As a matter of fact, it seems that other countries are going through persecution every day, but somehow we within the United States seem to think that we will have the Big Escape. None of us want to go through tribulation involving persecution. However, the Bible says that it will happen and we will encounter it. 2 Timothy 3:12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted…(NIV) Is this supposed to be a time of fear? Of course not! However, we do need to be prepared because there will be a time when it will be illegal to worship God within this country and your family will be the very ones who will turn you in. Mark 13:11-13 Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit. “Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child. Children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. Everyone will hate you because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. (NIV)

            Therefore, if there will be a pre-tribulation rapture, who is the Bible speaking of that will be persecuted? Mark 13:18-20 Pray that this will not take place in the winter, because those will be days of distress unequaled from the beginning, when God created the world, until now—and never to be equaled again. “If the Lord had not cut short those days, no one would survive. But for the sake of the elect, whom he has chosen, he has shortened them. (NIV) God is not saying that we will not go through tribulation, but He did promise to shorten the days so that we will be saved.

            One thing for certain, we should not live in fear for the days that will be coming ahead. Our faith is in God and He will take care of His elect (chosen people).  1 Thessalonians 5:9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) Let us always watch and stay prayerful during the times that are sure to come ahead, but know that even in the midst of persecution, our Salvation is sure. 

Benefits of Prayer

 James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous persona is powerful and effective. (NIV)

            What do you think about when you hear the word “prayer?” Do you look at it as an obligatory thing that you have to do with God? Do you just want to say it quickly over a meal and then rush to pick up your fork? Do you have the “Lord, lay me down to sleep” prayer as the essence of your nightly routine? Or do you think of it as a way to get the things you want from God? Whatever comes to your mind when you think of prayer, it should be one of reverence and humble communication between you and your Creator. What is prayer? I like to think of prayer as:

1.)  An open line of communication between myself and my Heavenly Father through Jesus. 

                                                      

1 Timothy 2:5 For there is one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus. (NIV) I love the fact that I do not have to go through anyone else to talk to God. I can come to Jesus and He is the only mediator I need. It doesn’t matter what you are guilty of doing in the past. God is always there to listen to our heart’s desire.

2.)  I do not have to wait till he wakes up in the morning because He never sleeps.

                                       

Psalms 121:3 He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; (NIV) We never have to worry about God sleeping on the job. He is forever present and alert to handle whatever crisis that we may face.

3.)  I do not have to wait till He opens shop and remove the “We’re closed sign.” He is never closed or too busy. 

                                        

Mark 11:24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. (NIV) God never tells us that He is closed for the holidays or do not disturb. God looks forward to us talking to Him. He eagerly awaits for us to come to Him and talk with Him.

4.)  I do not have to wait until He finishes answering someone else’s request because He can never be interrupted. 

                              

1 John 5:14-15 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him. (NIV) God loves granting multiple requests to His children. He has children all over the world and He is able to answer those requests at the same time. One person in China may in need of healing—He can do it. A person in Africa could need food—He can do it. A person in France could need encouragement—He can do it. All requests can be answered at the exact same time.

5.)  I do not have to wait until He finishes one task because He is a multi-tasker. 

                                     

Ephesians 6:18 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 Lord’s people. Again, God is never too busy where He can’t hear all the cries of His children simultaneously. He works without any set limitations. He is not like mortal man, but he takes care of His own if we ask.

6.)   I do not have to wait until He comes to visit because He is omnipresent. 

                                 

Psalms 145:18 The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. (NIV) The good thing about talking to God is that you can talk to Him anywhere. It doesn’t matter if you are in the United States or Russia. God is everywhere.

                                       

            Prayer enables you and I to get direct source to the throne of God. It allows us to communicate with God about the things that are of concern to us because it concerns Him. Prayer allows us to seek guidance when we am in doubt about something and know that He will give us an answer. Prayer keeps us strong when we feel like giving up. Prayer is the best weapon that we can use against the enemy. What are you in need of today? Have you tried talking to God about it? Have you offered a word of thanks to Him for what He has already done and what He is going to do? Try it! He guarantees a response.

What's Wrong with Men?

On any given day, you can watch various shows on TV talking about relationships, listen to a radio commentary’s advice, or read about the latest celebrity breakups in magazines. Everyone wants to understand about relationships and what makes them work and fall apart. However, not everyone wants to know the truth about what sets them apart according to the word of God. Many base their relationships on the images that Hollywood and the music industry portray—fornication, adultery, selfishness, seduction, and manipulation. However, all of this goes against the word and God and His idea for a Godly home. Even in the dating scene, Godliness has turned to madness and commitment is like eating the “Forbidden Fruit.”

I have listened to numerous friends describe the dating scene as a total loss.  They go on date after date only to find themselves with a full belly after an evening of dining and the ticket stub left as evidence to a good movie with no possible meaningful connection. This is not to say that they were going in with the idea of having their wedding plans set at the end of the date, but they could tell just after the first date that it was not worth their time to pursue any further actions. I have not gone on a date in years. I do not wish to waste my time in pursuit of happiness only to be disappointed at yet another failure. Now this is not to say that dating isn’t good, but I’ve had that talk with God and trust me, He will let me know when the time is right. Until then, I can take “myself” to the movies, dinner, and come back home with clothes intact. No pressure, no temptation, and no waste of time. Better yet, I rule men out during the first conversation. If they can’t pass the phone test, then they can’t past the date test. End of Story!

However, plenty of women want to know, “What’s wrong with men?” Okay, you may not know what I am talking about so let’s go into depth and see the common complaints.

     2.)  Many men these days seem to want women to pursue them.

 They want women to ask them out, get their numbers, make the initial call, and even pay for the dates. Yea…really!  I have heard all of this. Now, this is not to say that if you are that woman who feels that it’s okay for women to take the initiative, that it’s wrong. No…there is nothing wrong with it. If you read the story of Naomi and Ruth, Naomi advised her daughter-in-law to pursue Boaz. Ruth 3:1-4 One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, I must find a home for you, where you will be provided for. Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor. Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know that you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.” (NIV)

Therefore, a woman is quite within rights to let a man know that she is interested. However, if you notice, Naomi said, “He will tell you what to do.” She didn’t tell Ruth to throw herself on Boaz and seduce him. Ruth was lady-like in the manner in which her pursuit was done. She only uncovered his feet and laid there. Many women think that in order to get a man, they have to use seduction, be overbearing, and manipulative. All of these may get you laid, but it will not get you a serious commitment or a diamond ring.  If you get a ring, it may just be out of the Cracker Jack box. Doing things out of order will only get you seriously played.

However, if you are the type of woman that believes in a man pursuing you such as myself, there is nothing wrong with that either. I do not take men’s number, but will give them mine. Furthermore, if I don’t think that I would be interested in you from the beginning, I will not bother giving you my number. I will politely decline your request. I believe that whatever you start out doing, you will have to continue. Therefore, if you aggressively pursue him, then you will have to continue that. Take this for what it’s worth—this is only an opinion…nothing more. However, Proverbs 18:22 says, “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord. (NIV) I believe in allowing myself to be “found” by the mate that God has for me instead of me doing the chasing. However, this is just my view when it comes to my personal relationships.

                     2.)  Some men desire women to pay for the dates.

Just recently, I was on a talk show where the topic was about interracial dating. One of the cohost said something that I totally didn’t agree with. He said that women of certain ethnicities will pay for the first date when others will unanimously say NO. He felt that women should be more willing to pay for the first date just in case the man is broke. Well, I am one of those who will NOT pay for a first date. I believe that if a man asks you on a date, he should pay for the first one. If he is broke then he needs to wait until he can afford a Happy Meal.  2 Thessalonians 3:6-8 In the name of Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it…(NIV)

There are too many women who are thirsty for men that they are willing to switch roles. Now, don’t get me wrong, I do not think that there is anything wrong with a woman paying for a date, but definitely not the first one IF the man was the one to ask you on the date. However, by the third date, I don’t mind picking up the check. It just better not be dinner at the White House for $1,200 per plate…LOL.

3.) Some men want the women to drive them          

     everywhere due to their lack of transportation.

Women…if you are trying to date someone who doesn’t have wheels…investigate what is going on. If he tells you that his car is in the shop, ask him when it’s getting out. If it is within the week, then wait until he gets it back to go on that date unless he gets a car from a friend, relative or rental. Do not volunteer to pick him up. If he comes up with some excuse that it will be in the shop for a period of months…he is more than likely wanting you to be his taxi. The last time I checked, most car lots do not have 6 month parking spaces available. More than likely, his license is under suspension or he doesn’t own a vehicle.

Women must stop negotiating with Monopoly money. This is to say, if a man cannot be a man and come when he has himself together, then do not settle. (Exception to the rule: Men in their twenties who may be in college and/or working towards their goal should be viewed as great potential.) However, if a man are in their  30’s, 40’s and beyond, living with mom or grandma, and still not pursuing anything then more than likely, he will not change. 1Timothy 5: 8 Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. (NIV)

4.) Some men want women who will give them wife   

     duties for part-time benefits.

      Too many women are giving up the “cookie” without a

receipt. They go out of their way to please men sexually without any commitment. I am not speaking of being engaged for 10 years. Engagement is not the equivalent of marriage. If a woman wants to know if she has a good man, tell him that there is no sex until marriage and see how long he sticks around. If he is a true man of God, and the man for you, he will respect you even more for keeping your legs closed and allowing his pants to stay zipped.

The Bible tells us to stay away from sexual immorality. Therefore, sex should not be part of the equation when outside of the marital union. Women should expect men to respect them. However, this can only be done if you as a woman respect yourself. Do not share your goods with everyone. If a man cannot wait, then send him home packing. God will always bless the one who obeys His laws and do what is right in His sight.

1 Corinthians 7:2 But since sexual immorality is his own wife, and each woman with her own husband. (NIV)

5.) Some men want woman to have the Beyonce

     Image while they look like Homer Simpson.

This kills me when I hear men trash women who do not look like the models and celebrities on the videos and magazines. Well guess what? The models and celebrities don’t look like that either. This is not to say that some of them aren’t naturally beautiful. But for many, once you take off the weaves, eyelashes, makeup, acrylic nails, body glowing spray, and photo-shopped pictures, they look like the average woman.

Most of the men who talk about women in this manner, don’t look like Denzel W., Brad P., Borris K., or Matthew M. themselves. So why do they expect women to be perfect when they aren’t themselves? Absolutely nonsense!

Women, make sure that you allow God to send you the man who will value your beauty inside and out. Outward beauty may fade, but inward beauty stays true. This doesn’t mean that you can’t desire a person who is physically attractive, but just remember that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Whoever is for you, will find you STUNNING.

There is so much more that I could go into, but due to this being a blog, there isn’t enough time. However, sometimes the problem with men is what we as women allow them to get by with. Never compromise your standards for the sake of having a partner and always values yourself. You are worth being treated as a queen and if he can’t do that, then he is not the man that God has for YOU. This subject will be continued in upcoming blogs.