Tag Archives: Education

Drugs and Alcohol Won’t Solve Your Life’s Problems

Listen carefully to this: Illicit drugs and alcohol won’t solve your life problems. They are, however, likely to create chemical dependencies in your body that can consume the last piece of Christianity you have in you overtime, though. The best way to solve life problems is by turning to God, praying and sometimes fasting over a request to the Lord.

The following content comes from the website, http://www.openbible.info. Here we go:

The holy Bible contains 44 Bible verses on the topic of life problems and how to deal with them through scripture. I will include some of them in here in this piece so that you can both read them and as importantly, use the verses you like to help you deal with whatever difficulty you might be experiencing.

We are to trust in God and read our bibles constantly, especially if we experience difficulties in our lives.

Proverbs 3:6 : In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:6: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

John 1:11: He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.

1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

2 Peter 1:21: For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

Luke 1:35: And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.

2 Chronicles 7:14-18: If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place. For now I have chosen and consecrated this house that my name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will be there for all time. And as for you, if you will walk before me as David your father walked, doing according to all that I have commanded you and keeping my statutes and my rules, then I will establish your royal throne, as I covenanted with David your father, saying, ‘You shall not lack a man to rule Israel.’

Turn your eyes and attention to the Lord in times of trouble. He is our salvation, our everything. Say no to Drugs and alcohol. It ain’t good for you.

Blessed are the Meek, the Innocent at Heart for They Shall See God

On the sermon of the mount, perhaps Jesus most well known sermon in then Christian Bible, He teaches us the following godly lessons written in the book of Matthew.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad,because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5-7.

Being meek, or the act of being quiet and gentle, is shared by God to be the formula to inherit the earth, interpreted as a means to those who sustain earthly power will inherit the kingdom of God. The pure innocent of heart, they shall see the living God.

Clearly, being meek and having innocence in our hearts are two qualities that God is looking for us to have here on earth in order to obtain eternal salvation. I believe that, not just because of what Christ has taught us in the sermon on the mount but due to Christian logic.

Can you imagine anyone being in heaven with a defiant attitude towards the authority of God or with a heart of malice? I can’t. Let’s not forget that the former were some of the reasons why Lucifer was expelled from the heavens, along with pride.

The message is clear cut to me — we must leave this earth with much meekness on us and with an innocent heart. The challenges are for real because this world is full of arrogant insubordinate people with much evil in their hearts. The workforce, as an institution in itself, has proven to me to not be any different than the quarrels that we witness in so called off day life.

Be quiet, gentle, follow the rules and with much innocence, love your neighbor as yourself. This is how the Lord wants us to live.

Where There is dishonesty, Iblis is There

The act of dishonesty, which in its core means deceitfulness or the misrepresentation of truth, is nothing less than a demonic practice advanced by the ones who choose to give glory to the enemy. Directly or indirectly, the practice of deception and concealing information or data is often based on lies and the father or lies is no other than Satan himself.

The Bible teaches us that those who choose to pursue devilish behaviors belong to the, “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44.

Stay away from me Apollyon! I have the Lord and He is my refuge, the one who helps me in times of trouble who gives me much strength in this life “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1. I fear nothing, not the dark evening night or the challenges we find during the day.

My work and labor is honest wage. Dishonesty isn’t found in my vocabulary because I belong to the most high who calls me to be upright and not sin, especially against others. We are to love our neighbor as we love ourselves, as the law of the Hebrews once stated. Who is the father of dishonesty? We know it…

“There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.” Proverbs 6:16-19.

In the letter to the Colossians we read, “Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.” Colossians 3:9-10.

“Unequal weights are an abomination to the Lord, and false scales are not good.” Proverbs 20:23. Say no to dishonesty! Resist the devil and live a honoring life to the Lord, doing what is fair using true scares.

“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:17-21.

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:8-9.

Resist what is wrong. Celebrate what is right. Erase dishonesty or any dishonest thought from your mind as honor to Jesus and His teachings. Remember: “A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.” Proverbs 16:28. “Abstain from every form of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:22.

Stay firm in the faith brethren and never cease to love the Lord. He is worth our everything and because of Him and Him alone we live. Listen careful to the former piece of scripture shared by apostle John

“Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to hear my word. You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me. Which one of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.” John 8:43-47.

Glory is to only be given to God, in the highest. Say no to dishonesty. It is a destructive, devilish behavior of those who take pride in the selfish act of deception. God have pity on them for their stubbornness and self centered tendencies are more painful than a broken bone and more debilitating than a deadly virus.

It is demonic, all the way.

The Diabolical Behaviors of Lukewarm Christians

The devil, also known as the accuser, the evil archangel, who was defeated by archangel Michael and expelled from Heaven, is nothing less than diabolical in the literal sense. He is full of evil intent, rebellious, tempter entity, deceiver, liar, sinner, disguised as an angel of light or apostle of God yet full of malevolence, like many lukewarm Christians.

In my adult life, I have seen a major similarity in behavior between lukewarm Christians and satanists, with the exception that satanists are less concerned about conceiving their true self identify. Weak Christians are hypocrites, deny Satan culturally, and reject the idea of worshipping the enemy yet many times their behaviors resemble the ones practiced by the followers of the Luciferian religion.

Lukewarm Christian church members have called me names, maliciously gossiped behind my back, made my life a living hell in many universities for being a devoted Christian, using low and discriminatory tactics that would make their father, Beelzebub, very proud with their prideful actions and malevolent tendencies in the name of Jesus Christ.

I have been tempted to anger and hate and experienced devious behaviors from those who claim themselves to be followers of the way. Lukewarm Christians tried to deceive me multiple times especially in my professional career, lied and in several times behaved in a cruel, snakelike, mean-spirit fashion against me particularly in this past four years while living in Alabama and Tennessee.

But I know Jesus. God protects and shows me those who practice the anti-thesis of the truth through scripture, dreams and in real life events. The Lord has given me His discerning Holy Spirit, thank Goodness.

Remember: “Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the LORD God had made.” Genesis 3:1. How similar are lukewarm christian from the snake! They aren’t our brothers and sisters and they don’t belong in our Christian camp. “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8:44.

Listen carefully: Real Christians are known for their Christian-like behaviors and loving fruits. Lukewarm Christianity is based on hateful behaviors, jealous tendencies, and demonic envious unloving treatment and communication. It’s so easy to spot non-Christians when we decide to make a vote to follow Jesus Christ.

Your defense against them? Prayer. “pray continually.” 1 Thessalonians 17. “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Colossians 4:2. “Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing.” 1 Timothy 2:8.

Being with God is a gift. He will open your eyes to the intricacies of this life if you ask. A lukewarm Christian can be a satanist in disguise, in my view. Be aware! Jesus in the sermon of the mount warned us, “By their fruits you will know them.”

God is good. Flee from lukewarm Christianity.

Just Because They Say They Are Doesn’t Mean Much

Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and don’t do what I say?” (Luke 6:46). “Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles? Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” Matthew 7: 22-23.

Have anyone treated you poorly yet calling themselves a Christian? I must admit that i have experienced more devilish behaviors by those who consider themselves to be Christians than those who follow or practice pagan religions and rituals. It’s a sad yet true reality that I’ve experienced, particularly in higher education.

“A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit; neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” (Matt. 7:15–20). Listen carefully: “But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.” Revelation 21:8.

When a Christian does evil to others (including Christians), it is a detestable horrible display of loving others as yourselves. Lying and the idolatry of the self (pride) for self gain by diminishing others along the way is also a demonic practice. Always test the spirits before believing what others may say.

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” 1 John 4.

Don’t be afraid. Don’t be angry or mad, the Lord will take care of you, show you the ways of the devil and protect you against your enemies. Words can be easily said. Consistent actions aren’t always easily done. Be on the alert and read each person’s fine prints. It is amazing what you found when you dig deeper into someone’s true character.

“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.” 1 John 4:7-12.

Be a man or woman of character who isn’t afraid to say that they love the Lord. Don’t believe the first thing somebody says without knowing who they are: it’s easy to speak but near impossible to fake a character. Never forget that.

Christianity isn’t Islam or Judaism

“And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” 1 Corinthians 15:14. Based on this piece of scripture, religions that propose an alternative reality to this verse above can’t be comparable with Christianity and it is okay to say this.

Sure, the belief in one God, having a leading prophet, a holy book, and believing in one’s scripture are similarities between Islam or Judaism to Christianity, along with wanting to live in peace and so on; however, the nature of God between and among these religions are at war with one another.

Qur’an Q4:157 states, “Haleem—[Jews] said, ‘We have killed the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, the Messenger of God.’ (They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, though it was made to appear like that to them; those that disagreed about him are full of doubt, with no knowledge to follow, only supposition: they certainly did not kill him.)

To Jews, Jesus wasn’t the Jesus we know in Christianity and in some sects of Judaism, Jesus is seen as a blasphemer against the Lord. To Muslims, Jesus was a prophet but not the son of God. To Jews, Jesus isn’t a figure worth mentioning to them. Clearly, there are fundamental differences between and among these religions, despite the fact that many argue otherwise.

Somebody is wrong! Let’s see how some Jews define Jesus in Israel… Clearly not how many of us see Jesus. Don’t you think? The Babylonian Talmud even states that Jesus was the son of Pandora not the son of God. How can Judaism be even compared to Christianity?

In Islam, Mohammed is seen as the last prophet, Christ wasn’t crucified, and is certainly not God. In Sura 9:30, it is written, “The Jews call ‘Uzair a son of God, and the Christians call Christ the son of God. That is but a saying from their mouth; (in this) they but imitate what the unbelievers of old used to say. God’s curse be on them…”

Question, does the God of Christianity call Christians to curse others? Christians aren’t called to curse anyone. We are to love even our enemies. As stated in Matthew 5:44, “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”

That is a major incompatibility! Which is in direct opposition to Christianity. This is why trying to argue that the “three Abraham of religions” have major similarities in doctrine is a false belief. Check this clip out and see for yourself.

I believe by faith that Christianity is right. Others may think otherwise and that’s their choice. what we can’t say is that these religions are almost the same for being Abrahamic religions. To my assessment of verses in the Hebrew Bible, Qu’ran and the Christian Bible, they are fundamentally different from one another.

Pretension won’t do us any good but to create more misunderstandings . Respectful conversations about the differences between these religions done in a reasonable way is the best way to address these differences.

My advice? When in doubt, choose Christianity! But I’m suspect. 🙂

Silence is a Great Source of Strength

Wise men aren’t always silent but they know how to use it at the right time. There is much strength is silence ladies and gents. Often times, silence means rearming for a counter attack. Fortunate are those who pay close attention to it and take notes for they will be at the top.

“The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded than the shouts of a ruler of fools.” Ecclesiastes 9:17. Silence is a weapon than can fire at any time under a strategic general. Do you know of anyone who is unusually silent with you? Be aware! Change your plans, be unpredictable, develop an independent life/work strategy that isn’t dependent on that person.

You may be under a war zone without knowing. Remember: There is a time for war, there is a time for peace, “…a time to tear and a time to sew; a time to be silent and a time to speak; a time to love and a time to hate; a time for war and a time for peace.” Ecclesiastes 3:7-8.

Let me be clear. I’m not silent all the time especially when I witness injustice because the Lord has instructed us to do so, “Speak up, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the afflicted and oppressed.” Proverbs 31:9. It is okay to judge and be judged.

Wait patiently for the Lord’s justice! It will come when you least expect… “The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the person who searches for him. It is good to hope and wait patiently for the LORD’s salvation.” Lamentations 3:25-26. Listen carefully: the Lord is good and faithful.

Prudence equals silence. “When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise.” Proverbs 10:19. Be the last to talk but talk. Gather your intelligence and display the facts with appropriate evidence at the right time.

If you have to judge, judge fairly. Do what is right and pay attention to detail as you live your life. Be aware of unexpected silence from people that you know. It can (and probably is) a sign of rearming, usually against you. Listen to the Holy Spirit that is in you.

“You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.“ Romans 8:9.

Choose good over evil and with little emotion, and much objectivity, pay close attention to the behaviors of others especially if they are suspicious actions in nature. It is likely to be (or to become) an aggression against you. Don’t be deceived.

Nothing is an accident. It is appears to be, it usually is. Judge silence wisely and behind close doors with a pen and paper. Shift your strategy if you suspect that you are going to be cornered or attacked. God will show you the way out… the enemy will most definitely be conquered under such conditions much like the football team who can’t predict the plays of an offensive team.

Be blessed and with your guards up. With the eyes of a lynx, watch and take notes. Catch the enemy unprepared! Your life may depends on it. God will show you…

The Lord Guides Our Steps

All of our steps are guided by the Lord. At least, the former is what we are told by God in holy scripture. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.” Psalms 27:33. He takes delight in our journeys, all the days of our lives.

I must admit that coming to Alabama wasn’t in my career plans back when I was in graduate school. In fact, going to Mississippi or Tennessee wasn’t in my plans either but God wanted these moves to happen. I’m so happy He did. Even though much tribulation has occurred since we left the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, much resilience I was able to build.

I’m so glad…

His paths are always perfect. ““What a God you are! Your path for me has been perfect! All your promises have proven true. Who turn to hide themselves in you! You are the wrap-around God giving grace to me.” Psalm 18:30.

I’m now in quarantine due to a possible COVID19 infection; My daughter is positive for COVID19, we found out yesterday. We are taking the stance that we all have this virus now. Whatever the reason, the Lord is in control, we believe. We have faith in Him — Always.

As we wait for COVID19 test results, I reflect. My wish in 2015 was to stay in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania for life. My wife had opposite plans and prayers. I tried to cancel the interview that eventually brought my family to the south the night before at 3:30am.

God made a decision. We were going down to the great state of Mississippi. I drove down for 16 hours,l and was hired on the spot, holy cow. The rest is history.

Where is God going to take us next? Are we going to finally settle in Alabama? Only the Lord knows. In patience and in faith we wait. I still have hope that only my daughter has COVID-19. We shall see.

Our lives are a blueprint of love drawn by the creator. We don’t need to live a life of anxiety seeking the highest financial return. What we really need to do is to give up our wishes and let God work in our lives to advance the kingdom for his glory.

Everything else is meaningless, as we learn in the book of Ecclesiastes. My friends, celebrate the privilege to be alive and realize that God, not you or me, is in control.

Work With Them Anyway

We don’t need to like people in order to work with them. If they are a co-worker bully enemy (or a potential enemy), I get strategically closer to them, if I feel there is potential in them.

“Know thyself, know thy enemy… a thousand battles, a thousand wins.” Sun Tzu.

Usually, adversary workforce bullies have been bullied by a role model before (many times by a parent or a close relative) when they were very young. It’s a debilitating learned behavior for them, an Albert Bandura teaches us in his well discussed social learning theory.

This kind (bullies) are often screaming for help with their actions and words. I’ve turned around bully adversaries from a foe to an ally too many times simply by making the effort to get to know and working with them. They are often loners because their interpersonal communication style is too confrontational and eventually… they explode without warning.

Most human beings like peace and no conflict. That’s why bullies strike first. They, however, struggle in the workforce especially if they encounter a person who embraces war, ain’t afraid to fight, and is strategic about it.

Fact: In every organization, there are people who embrace conflict and fight back. It’s the end of the bully’s ride and the beginning of retreat.

Eventually, workforce bullies get physically sick, suffer a major mental breakdown or both for losing control of a situation they deem under control. They own personalities are very bad for them. It’s a handicap, I would say.

The clever ones minimize their attacks and start realizing that firing a nuke on someone can have severe consequences to them. Many of them learn quickly that it ain’t worth striking a well defended target again.

I don’t take things personally in the workforce. I don’t hate bullies or wish them success. I will fight them when the time is right, if necessary. Maybe you should do the same. As my mentor combat veteran Kurt once said, “Going go war is good sometimes.” It establishes boundaries.

God instructs us to love our enemies in Luke 6:27-36. Sometimes, loving others is calling them on their own evil actions and doing something about it.

Perhaps we all should love those we don’t like (even if they are a bully) by working with them. Sure, there is a risk — There is the risk of getting burned by that person but a person who don’t like you (or that you don’t like) can (and probably will) be a problem anyways whether you work with them or not especially the bully kind.

My advice? Give them a shot. See if you can collaborate with them. You may even like work with them after a while. Can you turn a bully into an ally? They are crying for attention!

Try them, why not?

You Got Time, Use It

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-8.

Time is what we all got, regardless of how much money we have in our banking accounts. Time allows us to share the gospel with others. In Ephesians 5:16 we learn, “Making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” Use time to do good, to make God the center of your life, time is what allows us to think, act, react, pray, share and learn.

Time, time, and more time. “Only if I had time for this, only if we have time for that.” Well, we do have it, if we think about it. It’s a matter of where we want to put our riches in, as Christ stated on the sermon on the mount.

How much have you thought about time lately? Life is short, time is limited but need is infinite. God’s love is to celebrate beyond the boundaries of time but overtime, we shall see God.

The truth is that we have the time to do great things for the Lord. All we need to do is to prioritize. Should God’s work be secondary or primary? Primary.

Much work needs to be done including building the kingdom, helping the poor, loving each other and being a voice for justice in this unjust world.

The Evil Of Man, The Grace Of God

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23, it has been written. Holy are your scriptures and

We are sinners and only by God’s grace we live. Day in and day out I see and hear much evil. Humanity seeking its own destruction by avoiding to follow the guidance of the lamb.

“Thou shall love your neighbor as yourselves.” Mark 12:31. Jesus said there is no greater commandment than the former, along with, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.”

Ask, believe for your part and resist evil. The former maybe inevitable overtime but the hope of right doing should be embedded in our hearts. Maybe I’m a dreamer who still believes that with the Lord, we shall be sanctified.

Good is good… All the time. We might as well emulate Him and do what we can to be good despite of our sinful nature. As Christians. We are to at least try. Indifference ain’t good enough. We need to be aware and vocal about it.

I mean, now. Not later. Gods grace suppresses the evil human nature. Avoid evil and do good. Repent! Keep the faith and above all, love God and your neighbor as yourself.

Build A Good Name: The Rest Will Follow

One of the secrets of living a good life is to build a good name. A good name can lead to favor and favor, as written in the Bible, is “better than silver and gold.” Proverbs 22:1. Having a good name is much better than lots of money.

Take for example a “preacher” who owns a couple of jets, live in a big mansion somewhere in the hills of California bit commits tax evasion? Forever will his actions hunt him. I wouldn’t want to be in His shoes when we see God.

Or a careless wealthy businessman who makes a profit by exploiting others for self gain. He or she may have the money but again, his reputation one day will hunt him. It ain’t worth it the trouble, I say.

A good name helps you to be more trustworthy, with getting a job and finding a career, with raising funds… you name it. Be a person of character who takes care of your name with much care

A good name is difficult to build but easy to lose. Flee from egoistical pursuits, careless actions, and questionable behaviors. If something appears too good, be on the alert and remember, there is a way that seems right to a man but it’s end is the way to death.” Proverbs 16:25.

Build a good name. The rest will follow. Including the success that God has planned for you.

“The love of money is the root of all evil.“ 1 Timothy 6:10. Let’s not forget about that, either. You name, not riches, is where you should put your attention to in life, always glorifying God in everything you do.

What Appears Crooked God Makes It Straight

Friday wasn’t a good day for me. My internet wasn’t working in my office, students didn’t come to my classes’s zoom meeting, a store in the state messed up our school’s order, and I was late to get my kid in school and I drove to west Alabama instead of East Georgia for a medical treatment.

To complement the former, I came home last night and my kid was screaming non stop for about an hour and a half. What a day, don’t you think? Of course I had a headache and was exhausted. I slept well but woke up this morning dehydrated, tired and dizzy with a headache.

Then… I drank a glass of water, checked my email and guess what? I got an invitation to register and potentially becoming an Apple Educator. Wait, what??? I got the link to start the process which is a pre-requisite to becoming an Apple Distinguished Educator. Doing training and taking tests were not my plan for this morning…

God’s had other plans for me, after yesterday’s turmoil. God has a great sense of humor and He fulfills His plans for us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 39:11.

I completed the training, which was secrecies to me for the most part. Now, I’m a Certified Apple Educator. How do you explain that? To me, it’s God working for whatever purpose He has for me for His glory. What do you think? Coincidence? Not to me.

In faith, I wait to what is to come patiently. After all, this is the only way to live; As we learn from Ecclesiastes 3, “There’s a time for everything under the sun.”

Blessings to you.

There Will Be A Day Of Judgement

“For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.” Act 17:31.

Don’t lose track of what is important. God is always to be the focus not man or money. Be careful with mistreating others for self gain because the Lord is taking great notes against evil actions.

We are to do good and help others to do well. “Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4.

Yesterday, it came to my ear that a close person to me was trying to do evil acts against me. Clearly, this person didn’t follow the directives that God has given us, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor.” Romans 12:2.

I will handle this situation overtime with care and love. Perhaps, this person is having difficulties at home or is struggling with a personal social matter. This person may even be sick mentality and needs some counseling. Maybe all of the above.

I don’t get angry. I don’t seek revenge. I will turn this person around with kindness. It’s the best way I can deal with this situation. “Eye for an eye is too easy of a solution and clearly not a Christian way to handle the situation.”

“Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.”

There will be a day of judgement. God judges, we take notes. Be kind to others and avoid ostentation. It’s the only way to live. Love God and others and never, under any circumstances, do evil against the brethren.

“Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 12:31.

We Are Called To Be Merciful

We are called to be merciful. It’s a blessing to show mercy to others. Having the power and authority over people is a big responsibility and it calls for much mercy in my book.

In the sermon on the mount Jesus stated, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7.

Compassion and forgiveness is are traits we are to have and exercise when dealing with anybody, no matter their financial situation, creed, color, nationality…

A follower of “the way” must love others as themselves — it’s the second most important command after loving our God with everything that we have. We are to please Him! John 8:29.

Uncaring behaviors, disregard for one’s needs, lack of compassion, and delaying gratification when gratification can be given to someone quick are examples unmerciful acts. Avoid doing the former.

“By their fruits you will know them.” Matthew 7:15. Be always on the look out, brothers and sisters in Christ. Always observe and “test the spirits.” 1 John 4. Much mercy we are to both give and receive especially from the brethren.

“You are the salt if the earth but if the salt has lost its flavor, it’s then good for nothing…”Matthew 5:-3. Mercy, much mercy we are to show towards others! Let’s keep our “flavor,” be different from others, and do what is right in God’s eyes.

That’s what we are called to do. What a blessing it is to serve God.

A Calling For The Obedience Of Faith

In the beatitudes we learn that “Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth.” Jesus was meek and had a humble heart (Matthew 11:29), it has been written. Therefore, we are called to obey in faith and be meek.

Talking with others with a docility of spirit, being gentle and kind are qualities we want to see in the brethren. It is our duty to behave this way and to celebrate God’s law by exercising self-control and having a meek spirit.

Submission to the will of God is sometimes challenging especially when God calls you and me to blindly follow His commands for our sake and His glory when our plans aren’t His. In the book “Experiencing God,” Blackaby eloquently shares this theme.

Even if we are to experience much hardship!

Being quiet and gentle… being meek. God wants us to be easily imposed on His will and we must go along with whatever God wants us to do. Therefore, set pride aside and in much prayer ask for God’s guidance and His will to be revealed for you.

“Ask and it shall be given to you. Seek and you shall find…” Matthew 7:7. Obey and be faithful. Be meek and let the Lord work in your life for your sake and His glory.

It starts with submission to God’s will. Meekness is at the center of it. Be meek, humble, and in everything, give glory to God.

The Last Will Be First And The First Will Be Last

I’m seating here on my first graduation at Talladega College. I’m the first faculty to be present in the graduation premises which is often not a surprising fact. If a ceremony starts at 9:00am I’m usually in my spot around 8:15am or so.

I could have taken my seat up front but in my book, being in the front of any ceremony, especially when somebody is new to an environment, seems arrogant to me. I won’t do it, unless asked otherwise by a long standing member of the faculty or administration.

In Matthew 20:16 Jesus said, “The last shall be first and the first shall be last.” The reference for the former is used in bible commentaries in relation to wealth and a chance to entering the kingdom of God.

By no means I’m attempting entering heaven by being last in this ceremony but in humility I respect the system in which I’m a part of allowing for bible lessons to be applicable in other areas of my life where I see it fit.

Choose humility, avoid seeking self acclamations, be humble and know your place. God has given you the air that you breathe and the food that you eat, along with a comfort dwelling and so much more.

Obedience is to be our second name. Say thanks for everything that the Lord has chosen to given you. That’s the biggest gift of all. His grace for you and me. Blessings to you.

Resist Pride At All Costs

“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2.

Resist pride at all costs. Much disgrace comes to those who choose to not repent from pride. I’ve experienced the former in my own skin.

When I was a teenager, I remember experiencing a period when I had much pride in me. The good God has gave me a golf talent from a very early age.

In humbleness I asked God for the ability to play golf well after being the only kid who didn’t go to the club of the 500 in Brazil for a junior tournament, after a friend cheated to get into the bus. The next year, I went as the number 1 seat.

Then, years later, now as the top junior in the state undefeated for two years in competition, I remember reading my Bible and God asking us to beg for His grace. I was 15 and with much pride thought to myself? Why do I need to beg for anything? Even to God? Pretty prideful, isn’t it?

The following year, I got 2nd place in every tournament I’ve played, many times losing against opponents who were much inferior. I’ve learned a big lesson at the end of the following year. Don’t test God and push pride to the side.

The message is clear if you don’t…

The following year, after much prayer before and during the national team qualifier in a small town near the city of Campinas in Brazil, I made the second spot (out of 3) in the Brazilian junior national team. What people don’t know is that in the last round of the tournament, in the morning, I was vomiting in the bathroom with fear.

I asked God in humbleness for protection in the bathroom and trusted that God would help me with my nerves in the last round. He did. I shot -1 with a dumb bogey on the 17 about 100 years from the green and a bogey on the 18.

Moral of the story. Say no to pride. It simply doesn’t pay off. Resist this evil for your own sake. God detests pride. He will humble you in one way or another. Much suffering can happen because of it. Stay humble and always focus your attention to God.

That’s the best way, that’s the only way.

God Takes Us Places For A Reason

The Lord guides us to do His will when we submit to His authority. The bible says, “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11.” I truly believe that.

Many prosperity gospel false preachers take the former scripture out of context and argue that God wants us to be wealthy and that lack of wealth means lack of faith. What they fail to mention is that prosperity can mean something other than financial success. A prosperous well beings and health condition is also prosperity.

I’ve learned that I was “Olive” not white in the eyes of many Mississippians. That was weird, I shall say. It was cultural… I guess.

Anyhow… when we do God’s will, amazing things happen in our life’s, even if God’s will isn’t necessarily what you’ve planned for initially.

I must say that coming to Alabama wasn’t on my plans when I was in living back in Pennsylvania looking to move my family to the south. I was hoping to move to Georgia, Florida or California not Mississippi and Tennessee.

I’ve learned a big lesson. God takes us places for a very good reason. It’s to develop us to bigger assignments orchestrated by a God to advance His kingdom, I think.

I’m now understand why the Lord took me to Pennsylvania in the late 90’s, then Mississippi and Tennessee before coming here to Alabama.

Coming from Brazil, where I literally had everything under the sun but little to no maturity, God took me to the outskirts of Pittsburgh in order for me to learn western PA culture, which is heavily based on what you do instead of who you are. I needed that back then.

Putting me in a cold and grey area made me want to study instead of wanting to go to the gym and the beach everyday and neglect my studies. For the first time in my life, I had to start from the bottom. It worked! Against all the odds, I got a bachelors degree with a high GPA, in a second language, with little to no training in secondary education. God exists!

After getting a PhD from and eventually tenure at IUP, as a family, we decided to move away from the north and move to Florida, hopefully. It didn’t work as we planned. I ended up taking a college teaching position in Mississippi, of all places. What?!?!

Yep. In there, I’ve learned what racism really is in this country and the implicit biases that are ingrained in a large number of Americans regardless of political affiliation. I’ve witnessed much hate against African-Americans which was something that really bothered me as a Christian.

I’ve come to also learn how kind Mississippians can also be, especially when their buddies aren’t around when you speak with them. Being there, reminded me of Brazil in many ways. It was tradition over progress, heritage above reason many times, and very good food!

The Lord took me to Jackson, a predominantly black city to understand black culture best. I’m glad that He did. I met some of the most amazing African-American personalities while at JSU including James Meredith, Demarco Morgan, Mignon Clyburn, among many others.

I was lacking in black culture. Not anymore… I wanted to be a pastor. The Lord exposed me to a wide variety of people while living in Mississippi, that’s for sure.

The flock comes in many shapes and colors, the Lord reminded me, through scripture. I was there for a reason! Then a major state crises came and my plans had to change. God clearly wanted me someplace else. I had to go…

The options were Louisiana or Tennessee not California or Florida. I chose Tennessee due to a college having a Christian component and my dream of working as a pastor somewhere. Why not serve as a professor full-time and pastor part-time somewhere in town? Good plan, not what God wanted.

The truth: It wasn’t until I moved to Cleveland TN that I was constantly mistreated and undervalued in higher education. I met some of the meanest people I’ve ever met in my adult life and a few kind ones but they were outsiders. Many of them were openly racists while pretending to be Christians. How hypocritical! Very, in fact.

I witnessed devilish people claiming to be part of the flock using the argument that speaking in languages makes them holy and others not having the holy spirit in them but the Lord again delighted me with his teachings, “By their fruits you will know them.” Matthew 7:20.

God made it clear to me who they really were. All the masks were taken out. I could see through them all and the schemes they were planning against me and others. Remember: The Lord protects.

I had to get out, ASAP… For my family’s sanity.

I must add that despite my experiences I. Tennessee were literally horrible, the Lord has taught me how to deal with “sneaky mean” people and how to leverage their unkind behaviors for the advancement of the gospel. I’m so thankful for that. There are many lost lives in that town — They need a lot of help, that’s for sure.

The new chapter in my life started a week ago. So far, so good. I’m sure there will be challenges but this time around, I bring cumulative cultural experiences from a variety of places within the United States. It takes much longer for me to be upset, I have a thick skin now and will act immediately and firm if injustice or misbehavior occurs.

I’m here to guide our kids majoring in Mass Media Studies at Talladega College to find a place under the sun. I will do what I can to help them. I’m much better prepared for this job. I give thanks to God for having developed me over the years. God interfered in my self growth professionally, I’m convinced.

Without Him, my ministry journey in higher education would have been much shorter. As my wife once said, “Higher education is full of crazy people” which was a small variation from what one of my chairs once told me, “To work in higher education, you need Prozac.”

I’m looking forward to what God is preparing for me this year and beyond. That His will be fulfilled. I’m ready.

Everything Was Wrong Now It’s Right

People can’t chose in which circumstances they were born but the future is indeed a chosen path. Thank goodness this is the case. Let me explain.

I was born in a family with tradition in Brazil who belongs to the Brazilian upper class. Although I enjoyed growing up with the many amenities my parents were able to provide, I must admit that the overall environment in which I spend most of my time as a kid has handicapped me until recently.

First and foremost: Golf was a great sport to learn and master but the implications of trying to be a competitive golfer in a country without a history for the sport were pretty negative. I took a big hit in school for a dream that wasn’t reasonably attainable which eventually resulted in me leaving the country for an opportunity under the sun in the United States.

I grew up with the ambition to own luxury cars. That’s a big problem, I’ve come to learn. A BMW X1 costs significant more than a Honda CRV, providing less value for your buck costing 20K more MSRP, without taking into account cost of ownership. For what? A symbol? Come on man.

Third, my philosophy of work growing up was based on hard and smart work in order to maximize income growth. The former isn’t necessary bad but the former without an understanding and value for money and investing is futile. It took me a long time to realize that frugality is a variable in personal finance.

I was once told by an old man to sleep with 7 girls a week for 10 straight years in my youth. Stop for a minute and think about this for a minute. The value of having a caring person on your side taking care of you in worth much more than having dozens of other ones for a night or two.

Having multiple houses, building your million by age 40, luxury here, luxury there… women and alcohol everywhere without any concern for a God’s law is simply suicide. I’m glad that I woke up from these ideals overtime.

It took me a while, I must add. Unlearning bad behavior just doesn’t happen overnight. I’m going to make a bold statement. To some degree, growing up in wealth can handicap a kid if he (or she) doesn’t make an attempt to unlearn behaviors

“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.” 1 Corinthians 13:11.

I’m glad that God showed me the way to His path. Not everything that seem or feels good is good for you. The value of walking with God is priceless.

If God can make the crooked straight and the rough roads smooth as we learn in Luke 3:5, He can help you to become a better person if you repent and ask.

I did and he helped me. If you ask with the right motives to advance His kingdom, you shall receive. “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” James 4:3.

Be with God and flee from earthly pleasures. It’s worth the effort. Blessings to you all.

Choose Love Over Evil, Do Good

“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” Romans 12:9.

Love, above all things, are to be stamped inside of our hearts so that evil flees from our sinful nature resulting in is doing what is good, in Christ.

I’m often amazed by how evil some people can be. The many strategies and tactics of isolation and oppression that unchristian people do to others. How awful these unnecessary actions are. We learn in the Bible that we are to be the light of the world — Matthew 5:14-16.

“A city on the hill cannot by hid.” Matthew 14.

Choose good. Use the divine love that God has given you to help others. Next time that you see injustice, be vocal! Say something about it, no matter the context. God will provide.

Stand for what is right in this Full or wrong world. Are you up for the challenge? I am.

We Should Be Thankful For Everything That God Gives Us

We should be thankful for everything that we receive from God, ranging from the daily food that we eat to the air that we breathe. Being with God is a most certainly a gift. Fortunate are some of us who choose to follow His ways.

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9.

As I lay here in my room, I’m reflecting so much. God has given me more than I’ve asked for — from my ignorance, the Lord has given me a PhD. I was once terribly shy. Today, I can carry a conversation with strangers with ease. I was once dead spiritually now I live.

In my youth, I thought like a child and felt that life revolved around me. As an adult, the Lord has showed me why life is about serving others. The gifts that we receive from the Lord are to be used to help others for God’s glory. They come straight from Him.

“Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.” James 1:7.

Put a smile in your face, forgive and forget what others have done to you, and ask God for keeping looking after you, your family and friends. Remember: It’s by God’s grace that we achieve eternal life. We shall pray for those who oppress us.

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Matthew 5:44.

I forgive those who have mistreated me and my family in these past three years and pray for their salvation. I hope that God shows them the way of the light which is much love not hate.

God gives us peace and I’m so thankful for it. Thank you God for everything.

Everybody Should Be Treated With Dignity

At least this is what we learn and are asked to do in the Bible…

In Proverbs 14:21 we learn that “Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.” The message in Leviticus 25:35-37 also echos this message. Luke calls us to have a generous spirit, and many other books and passages in the holy bible.

Clearly, we have been instructed in God’s book to love and care for our neighbors and help those in need so we don’t sin but obey god. Keep in mind: “The wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:22.

Fortunate are those who choose to obey and do good, according to God’s commands. “Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be my people.” Jeremiah 7:23.

“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2. It’s a Christian’s duty to care for the situation of others as much as their own circumstances, including financial.

So it’s written.

In reality, however, I’ve seen very little of the former. In America, obeying the Bible can result in groups calling bible believing Christians names like liberal socialists, communists, anti-capitalists, Not-Americans… which is literally ludicrous. I don’t know…

This is what I’ve seen in the 22 years I’ve lived in this country. I’ve seen a complete an almost complete disregard for the long-term welfare of the poor by too many wealthy people, especially by the ultra wealthy class.

What is my conclusion?

If we depend on the ultra wealthy to pass or change policies that will reduce inequality, protect the poor and the oppressed in this country, we may run the risk of living our whole lives and dying disappointed. Remember what has been written in Matthew 19:24…

“Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

Everybody must be treated with Dignity nonetheless in my book in this economically divided world of haves and have nots.

What can we (the actual middle class) then do to help the brethren to live with dignity, with capital D? Let’s me explain how I think we can help the less fortunate to be more Dignified, especially in the United States.

1. Follow God’s commands above everything else. Turn off your TV’s, read the Bible, and be close to God.

2. Marry and have both you and your wife (or husband) working 40 hours per week. Buy (or rent) a house in one income.

3. Live small, avoid buying lots of depreciating assets, especially if they are expensive. This means no large televisions, stereos, video game consoles, cars, tablets and so on.

4. Don’t pretend to be wealthy (or appear wealthy) if you belong to the masses. The wealthy is likely to laugh at you. The poor is likely to despise you behind your back.

5. Invest in education and read books on leadership and self help. Use the public library to get these books. If you need the actual names of these books, let me know. I will be more than glad to share them.

6. Work on teaching your kid(s) ethics and how to be a respectful person in and out of the school. Raise leaders who understand who they are and the circumstances they are under.

7. If you have to spend, spend your dollars on medicine and care (or investments) instead of meaningless things like fancy clothes or shoes. They carry no long-term value, with rare exceptions.

God instructs is to care for the poor and the disenfranchised but we rarely see the former in form of corporate protocol in our society in the long run. Many policies and procedures adopted in corporate America defend the interest of the wealthy at the expense of the poor.

How demonic! Think about it.

I hope you find these seven suggestions useful and helpful for your long term Dignity sustainability. There is nothing wrong with living small, being frugal, and reject spending your money with “things” that bring you no longer term value.

Let the ultra wealthy have them all. Love God instead and don’t pretend to have much. Read extensively, invest in your kids, and take care of your health by eating at home.

Give it a try. Start today.