Fine Art America

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Celebration of Life



Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel."….Luke 2:29-32

The words of Simeon as he takes baby Jesus into his hands.

My experience with the Christmas season has always been valued on what I have to give to those whom I love. I never considered the real value in the celebration of the Lord’s birth concerning the gift presented to each of us from God himself. When I removed my gaze from my natural experiences I began to realize that what God has presented at Christmas is life giving . If I only see Christmas from my natural experiences I will loose the effect of what He has given to me for an eternity. Life. Those experiences produced by the natural worlds interpretation of the celebration can only leave me with a half truth and not the full effect of God’s love. Unless it is founded in the truth of our Lord’s birth my experiences are nothing unless they are valued in the source of the truth, the Lord Jesus the Christ.
If I try to deny the truth of it then my circumstances and challenges result in death. Christmas day should be a celebration of life. . When the truth is lived by virtue of the Holy Spirit then the meaning of the celebration becomes alive and as a result victories are born in our relationships, giving, faith, and so on. The scriptures come alive as it relates to why Christ was manifested and what the result of it is. (1 John 3:8). The result will come in an abundance of life in every aspect of it... Allow the true spirit of the season to compel your heart towards the life presented at the cross of Calvary. One indebted in service, love and obedience to the will and word of God which is the Lord Jesus the Christ.

This Christmas truly examine your heart to minister to the true reason for the season. It is a gift that celebrates life instead of death. For God so loved us that this day resulted in the birth of a sacrifice that will stand throughout eternity. It was the love of God that took the tree at Calvary in order for us the have eternal life. That is truly the reason for the season.Love someone today that eternity may be presented to them through the love of Jesus Christ. Amen

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads………………….Revelation 22:1-4

Thursday, December 10, 2009

According To Your Faith


And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment:
For she said within herself, if I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole.
But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.
Matthew 9:20-22

Let’s examine these statements. When I first encounter them they do not offer any sense of truth when examined from the contents of our natural environments. Here’s why, from a natural perspective there is no power available in the hem of a garment that can resolve my most pressing issues. I just can not comprehend it. When I visit this story in the book of Matthew from the natural it has no life. Come on this woman has been sick and bleeding for 12 years. To encounter it for one year would be extremely challenging.

Notice what she says to herself. “If I can touch the hem of his garment” It is in this piece of the statement that she becomes free from the fallen or natural state of her condition. In her heart she becomes convinced, by faith that the power of God had rested in His presence. Of course we know who is wearing the garment. If you don’t know it is Jesus the Christ.
It is according to our faith weather of not we will overcome the challenges that are present in our daily lives. I chose this particular piece, even though there are many witnesses to choose from, this one kind of lines up with the statement Christ makes in Matthew 19 starting in verse 24. It reads; and again I say unto you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, with men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
Believing in the power of God outside of the state of our natural realm presents enormous challenges. This so called faith can only present itself in the context of which God intended for it to be. Unfortunately in our fallen state it becomes challenging because of our inability to touch the tangible aspect of what is hoped for. This is the key element used by Satan to hinder us from receiving the gift of God through our Lord Jesus the Christ and the Holy Spirit of God. The power of God begins with the blood of Jesus and rests at the right hand of the Father in the presence of Jesus. If there is failure in receiving this truth then the power of God can’t and will not work in our lives.
Often the breath of our experience can only be born from what we believe in our hearts. Lets not get it twisted the power of God is available to us. Our belief in the presence of God can only be manifested by our faith. It is what it is. If we suppose the theological arguments and religious tangibility of the existence of God then we begin to rob ourselves of His power. There is no coincidence that the world centers all of its religious activity from Jerusalem. It is there where the King of Glory will assume His eternal Kingdom. (Revelation 21; 10) and reign for ever and ever.
Our hardship occurs when we become more accustomed to believing what is interpreted by those who are anti Christ. Take for instance the statement by Ms Oprah Winfrey that suggests there are many ways to heaven. This insinuates that the word of God from the bible concerning the Christ is not true. It is foolish to present this as valid because it was only one way out of the presence of God and there is only one way in. Remember by witness of the universe our God and creator. Has order. He shows us by way of scripture what He has intended for man to be redeemed back to him. The order is predicated on His sacrifice. Of His only begotten son. That’s it. Nothing else can substitute it. Nothing. This can only come by faith.(Romans 5:15)
As believers we must rely on the promises of God. It is by faith that our lives become whole and complete as we return back to the creator. It is foolish to present the notion that when we live in this natural state that we are succumbed to that state forever. The reality is by faith, which encompasses the power of God, can we benefit from all that he has made and present it as glorious in His sight. He wrote the script. In order for it to be played out in the fashion of what he intended we have to enter into his presence by faith. As he witnessed to the women with the impossible challenges let it be done According to your faith. Without it we become less than what God had intended for us to be. Remember that His intentions were for us to be complete in him. (Colossians 2:10)
And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus in the way.
Mark 10:52

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Salvation Is Eternal




He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.


I John 5:12,13

Here is the question. Can you loose your salvation?

First I like to say as a believer, you are assured that your eternal destiny is secure in Christ. (1 John 5:13). There is this notion channeling through the body of our Lord that believes that salvation can be lost. Some fear that there salvation is lost. Many of them carry on through life uncertain about there eternal status by virtue of some religious discourse that presents this mistruth. There are many reasons we can assume a lost of this gift but the number one reason is centered on sin. In violation to the word of God sin diffuses our assurance. How can this be?
In our choice to sin against God we feel a sense of estrangement. We feel that we have left the presence and as a result we don’t feel as close. It provides us with a feeling of unworthiness and rejection. As a result it presents the challenge with doubt concerning God’s love for us. It is disobedience and rebellion that send us catapulting into repeated sin. Those who are misinformed eventually come to the notion that they have lost there salvation. This is untrue.
Actually it is very selfish to think that we can override the sacrificial payment of our Lord Jesus the Christ with our actions! I don’t think so. There isn’t anything we can do to cancel the tremendous debt paid by our Lord at Calvary. (Hebrews 9:12)) This is not a license to sin. Rather it is the opportunity to motivate us to champion the virtue of the cross and become more Christ-like. His sacrifice provides us with the opportunity to love Him. It is His action on the tree that provides us the opportunity to be saved. (Galatians’ 3:13)
Our hardship occurs when we become more accustomed to sin instead of developing a relationship with Jesus the Christ. On many occasions sin provides us with a view of salvation based on feeling and emotion. Feelings and emotions change. My point is that salvation is not based on feeling and emotion: it is based of the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus the Christ. You may feel indifferent because of sin, but once you have accepted Christ you can never lose your salvation. (John 10:27-30)
How then can we as believers be certain that we are saved without a shadow of a doubt?
As believers we must rely on the promises of God. From the beginning of the Word and throughout God assures us as to what the result is when we believe His word. It presents us with the certainty that when we hear His Word and believe on His sacrifice of His only begotten and confess our sin salvation is the gift afforded to us. (John 3:16; John 4:24; John 6:37) No one can separate us or snatch us from it. (John 10:28) (Romans 8:33-35)Another point that secures this is centered on God’s unconditional love for us. Who can charge us otherwise (Romans 8:33, 39)
The finished work of Jesus on the cross solidifies our salvation. Hebrews 7:25 vows that Jesus “is able to save forever those who draw near to God through Him. Our Lord’s sacrifice wasn’t intended upon being a quick fix. It is the eternal answer to the fallen state of man away from God.
Through the Holy Spirit we are assured our salvation through the witness in our hearts. Remember the heart is the instrument and vessel used to play out the virtue of the cross. As a result it is the Holy Spirit that replenshises the truth of Calvary with your soul. Nothing else. .
Many of us who believe have experience this doubt at one time or another. Fear is not the arbiters of our eternal destiny. Any question about our salvation must be examined in our hearts and reassured through prayer, fasting and consecration. Ask God to shed a light on the challenges that present this untruth and eradicate it from your soul. If there is still uncertainty revisit Romans Chapter 10 starting in verse 8 and repave that uncertain road unto the pathway to eternity with God. Remember salvation is eternal. Amen.


I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.

Isaiah 61:10

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Keeping It Real


In the Spirit of the risen Christ it is tremendous to see the love and joy of God demonstrated in some of our most valued and treasured events. To witness these acts presents the real truth presented by hearts that bear witness to our Lord and King.

For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God:
Exodus 34:14

Everything that is created presents glory unto the Lord. It is up to us to present it without shame unto his glory. Amen

Fear Not




And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge
After the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
Isaiah 11:3

One of the greatest attributes given to a peaceful soul is centered on there identity. When given the opportunity to address circumstances unawares the ability to remain calm and resolute comes from knowing who is in charge. The ability to become steadfast and unmovable comes from the supernatural and unmovable God who is greater than any challenge presented. This can not be attained in the strength and wisdom of men, but through the power of an awesome God.
As disciples of the Lord Jesus the Christ the discipline of believing the witness of the cross presents us with a quick understanding by virtue of the power of God. By faith in understanding the tenets of the cross of Christ our fears become our strengths when approached with the fear of God. Philippians 4:13 reminds us that “I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me.”All of our power as Disciples of Christ is centered on Him. The issues and challenges we encounter in our daily lives were already defeated when he was hung on the tree. (Galatians 3:13) Our fear of God concerning the wrath He incurred upon Himself presents us believers with the understanding of His redemption.
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of
Sins, according to the riches of his grace;”
Ephesians 1:7
As a result in resting in this truth and faith of the cross we become censored in our sight and ears. It is our faith that allows us to see through the fallen state of this world. Christ activity on the cross provides us with the fine tuning in hearing and speaking the victory presented at the cross of Calvary. As we continue to press toward the mark of the High calling our ability to judge isn’t necessary to place us in high esteem with the world and its fallen state. What we hear doesn’t present us with a challenge to rebuke or reprove of what is presented. In fear of the wrath of God impressed upon Christ it presents us with a quick understanding of who is Lord and King. (Romans 8:1 1Corinthians 4:5) as we walk “according to His spirit and not by our flesh”
Today each one of us will be presented with the challenge to shed His light upon those situations that are tainted in darkness. It is the power of the Holy Spirit bearing witness to Christ crucified that will champion us and crown us as overcomers. It is in this virtue that the Power of God will strengthen and comfort us as “we march through the valley of the Shadow of death”
(Psalm 23:4)
There are many ways we can approach our challenges. But there is only one who has risen from all of them to the Glory of God. His name is Jesus of Nazareth. The risen Christ Lord and King. Amen.

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."…………………………….
John
An apostle of the Lord Jesus the Christ.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Authority




Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
Luke 9:1

How do we define authority when used in the context of scripture? Is spiritual authority the same as that used in the world? Throughout the New Testament the term is used over 30 times to reference the point of God’s authority given to man through the Lord Jesus the Christ. Scripture indicates that word was “made flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14) the authority given to us by our Lord Jesus the Christ rest in the word of God present and available to us today. The book that adorns the coffee table or the rear console of the back seat of the car is our authority. It is the instrument God uses to manifest his glory.

Christians the power and authority that was transferred to the disciples in Luke 9:1 has the same substance today in each one of us disciplined in the faith of Jesus Christ. Each of us in our uniqueness has the foundation for that transfer of authority and power to manifest in every area of our lives. Notice the scripture makes clear that it is over” all devils” (Luke9:1). Those issues in our finances, behavior, relationships, faith, self control and the likes of are the devils he gave us authority over. Fathers when you become the priest and prophet over your home you take authority over the atmosphere that lives in it. Mothers when you speak love, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness in your children then and only then will they have authority over the places they frequent and the company they keep. To often we become insecure in our efforts because of our dependence on those God has placed in authority over us. Remember there is a transfer from them to you. When we believe then the power that accompanies that authority will manifest unto the glory of God. In order for us to alleviate sickness, diseases, poverty, crime, racism, oppression, hatred, and the likes of we have to become disciplined in the faith of the cross of Christ and understand it place in our lives. Without Him crucified it is to non effect (1Corinthinans 1:17).

As I close I leave this jewel to the thought of the power of words. The root of the term authority is author. It is defined as “an originator or creator, as of a theory or plan.” Its Latin origins define the term from the Latin auctor, "authorizer, responsible agent, originator, or maker." Until we incorporate this in the discipline of what we believe that Jesus Christ is the originator of our lives, then the revival we all are expecting will manifest to the glory of God. Amen.

Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.
1Corinthians 15:24
His authority is written into the hearts of each of us. Only when
we believe can it be manifested into His glory.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

A Grateful Brother


To all my brothers who chose to serve this nation I honor you today. To my fellow veterans whose lives that has been graced, I commend all of you in your efforts to keep alive the memory of those who served with us, before us and after. To all of my family members who served before me (Uncle Nay, Uncle Philip, Hezekiah Crudup) To those after me (James ) my prayers are that you will be protected according to the word of God found in the 91st Psalm. To all of the other men and women whose lives were given on behalf of this nation I honor you for your sacrafice and love. To the families of those fallen my heartfelt condolences and gratitude. My prayer is that God will continue to confort and grace you in your times of rememberance. To this nation I pray that we will continue to honor and respect those veterans among us who still continue to battle with the tremendous loss presented through their service and sacrafice. To all of my brothers ( Drew , Stanley and Jerome) I thank you for your service as well. I close with this piece out of 1 John 3:16 that moves me to a greateful heart for those who have fallen. It reads:
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.
Thanks again for your tremendous service and sacrafice for this brother. Amen

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Our Father



And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.
Malachi 4:6
The time is now for men to realize the truth of this word. It must be received into the hearts of men the promise of God concerning our position and order. When we begin to act accordingly then the spirit of God will enter in like a rushing wind. (Acts 2:2). Refusing to will leave our culture and humanity paralyzed... Once the spirit enters into the presence of men revival comes and the spirit of God delivers us from the curse. The deception that pervades this culture (pride of life, lust of the flesh) stands in the way of the truth written on our hearts from the father to his children. Once we accept the love of God concerning our children then and only then will we begin to live. Anything less is a lie.
Men allow the truth of this piece from Malachi to minister to your soul. Never allow this truth to pass without consulting the throne of God concerning our position. All authority under Christ rest in men (1 Timothy 2:12) for the script written from creation falls along that truth. Stand up and be the father in your homes. Become the prophet and priest you were destined to be. The anointing of God we seek is predicated upon this truth. The foundation of the revival were longing for is set upon our acceptance of our authority as the sons of God. “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” Romans 8:14. As we begin to live out this word of truth from the father then the stage is set to produce the magnificent production written by our most creative and awesome God. Again the transformation will begin when the heart of the fathers shall turn to the children and the children to their fathers. Amen.

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
Romans 8:15, 16


Believing is all we can do. The hope that we live for to. The greatest of these is love. Lets talk about. Sing about it................
Lyrics from the Yellow Jackets release
"The Hope"
off the
Altered States Album

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Fallen


Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.
Genesis 3:7
The state to which all of the human race was condemed to came through an act of disobedience. In the act the heart of man was decieved and set apart from God. This deception separated man from God's original intentions concerning him ,which were to subdue and take dominion over the earth. Unable to hallow( set apart) and realize the awesomeness of God our eyes were opened and we began to realize the evil that God didn't intend for us to have knowledge of.
Unlesss we find death to this deception by the spirit of God through the Lord Jesus the Christ ,it is impossible for us to live out the creation mandate set forth by the creator concerning man. His intentions for man was to be free of the evil that separates us from God.
As we celebrate hallow(set apart)-ween lets use this time to separate our thoughts from the dead and evil spirits of this world and become encourage in the spirit of God which eminates life.
Amen

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Glory Spot






In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. 3 And they were calling to one another:
"Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty;
the whole earth is full of his glory."
Isaiah 6:1-3

As I sat down to reflect on my latest piece of artwork I can hear this word over and over again in my soul. That word is Glory. I find it not coincidental that during this time I have been reading a book by James Mac Donald titled “Gripped by the Greatness of God”. While exploring the contents of this manuscript I have come to identify with his labeling. Here is an example his first chapter which is labeled “Gripped by the Holiness of God”. Chapter two is “Gripped by the Awesomeness of God” and so on. All of the chapters use the adjective “gripped” as the action that takes place when encountering the different characteristics of God. He uses Isaiah chapter six as a reference point to God's awesome power. As the prophet Isaiah paints the scene King Uzziah’s death affords him the opportunity to see the pre-incarnate Christ on the throne in it's awesome power. Could you imagine the awesomeness of that event as God provides him with a glimpse of our Lord before he comes into his manifested glory? As Mr. Mac Donald points out in the book there are four words spoken by Isaiah that describe the witness that changed Isaiah’s life for eternity. “I saw the Lord” are the four words.
The point I’m trying to make is this. In order for us to present a gospel of peace and encounter a witness we have to see the cross of Jesus the Christ in the same manner Isaiah saw the throne. He saw the throne high and lifted up. Many of us will not be afforded the chance to see into the throne room of God. We are afforded the opportunity to witness however the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus the Christ. When we look toward the cross and position it where it belongs the power and manifested glory scripted there provides us with the impetus to overcome the challenges that occur in our lives. It empowers us into the living and removes us from the presence of the dead. As we encounter these experiences with the Holy Spirit our reliance is not with our eyes and ears, but with our hearts.(Isaiah 6:10)
Today I can bear witness that the power of the cross is absent in the message of the gospel. It is not readily apparent in the lives of present day Saints and believers. Yes we all fall short of His glory (Romans 3:23) but we are still afforded the opportunity to look toward the Cross of the Christ and use it as the standard of hope which allows us to envision and see the magnificent eternal throne of our Christ and King. My prayer today is for a renewed witness of Calvary and a refreshing look at our relationship with the King of glory. Lets stop pretending and start believing. Allow Jesus the Christ to be the head of our lives and not the tail.
It is an overwhelming and awesome thought that God loves us so much that all the power of the universe is presented at the cross of Christ. Each one of us by virtue of the Cross will receive nothing less than the opportunity to celebrate (Revelation 7:9) Jesus throughout eternity. Lift Jesus the Christ up today and allow Him to minister to every need concerning your present and future. It is the source of power that presents us with eternal life in the presence of a Holy God. Amen

"For you are our glory and joy." 1 Thessalonians 2:20

Monday, October 12, 2009

Preparation


See, I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come," says the LORD Almighty.
Malachi 3:1

When you are expecting company how do you prepare for them? Do you make changes concerning the accommodations? How do you prepare for there arrival? Many of us care very much about those love ones and friends so we prepare for there arrival with love and care.
While making the preparations we look to visit every detail in order to please those who we are expecting. Our efforts concerning usually take us outside of our ordinary in order to present a great impression.
Are you prepared for the arrival of our Lord and King Jesus the Christ?

The prophet Malachi wrote, “See, I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come," says the LORD Almighty.” (Malachi 3:1) Now is the time to prepare for Him who has prepared a place for us in His kingdom. What is your message? How is it fashioned? Is it fashioned to the Lord of Glory?
Mark in his witness to our Lord writes this, “The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!"(Mark 1:15)To all of us alive by the grace mercy and love of God this is the message. .In this message we set forth the preparation of the coming of our Lord Jesus the Christ. It isn’t fashioned by the ideals of this world through its dogmas concerning the worship of God nor is it matriculated in a manner that is found by the wisdom of this world. Is is not predicated upon our deeds or actions. It is written on our hearts by the Holy Spirit as He bears witness to our Lord and King Jesus the Christ. All of creation will line up with His coming. It is already apparent in the changes of our natural world as it groans for the coming of our Lord. It’s preparation in the Spiritual is contingent upon our receiving and believing the truth of the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord through the Spirit of God. Nothing else.
Is Christ the Lord over every area of your life? Is your death to this world apparent in your message concerning the Lord of glory? Is it predicated solely upon Him? Have you gone into the wilderness areas of your life in order to proclaim the message of the cross? Is that message the witness of love hung on the tree for us?
In order for us to proclaim the good news of the cross we have to believe it. Allow the Holy Spirit to enter your dwelling in order for the power of God to lead you to salvation. Not only for us as believers but for those who encounter that witness through us. Remember that preparation begins with Christ living in us. Allow Him to be Lord of your life. The time has come! Repent for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand (Matthew 3:2) the sooner we prepare the temple the sooner He will return. Lets not get it twisted He will return if we are prepared or not It is in that preparation that the glory of God will be presented to us. Without Christ there is no eternal life for us.
Pray and ask the Lord to prepare His way in your heart today. Ask him for His power to remove the barriers present in your life that hinder the message of the coming of our Lord. Amen

Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it. I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name.
Revelation 3:12

Friday, October 9, 2009

Peacemaker


Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Matthew 5:9

Congratulations are in order for our President and his award from the Noble Prize committee. Certainly there are a number of challenges available to President Obama but the root to solving them is founded in peace.
I believe that a heart that is genuine towards his ambitious goals concerning peace will prevail in a world in need of it. I do not believe in coincidences and that during this time and season President Barack Obama is the right leader to usher in an attitude of peace through this nation and the world. Many of the challenges present in this nation and world stem from an attitude of indifference and ignorance when confronting the diverse nature of cultures. There is a piece in scripture that the apostle Paul touches on concerning the choice and placement of leaders as it relates to the agenda of the Kingdom of God. He writes;

Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
Romans 13:1-3

In a world in need of an attitude adjustment President Obama is that breath of fresh air and the vessel willing to work towards the good for mankind and not for evil. There are times when his decisions and choices are not perfect, none of us are, but to his credit his humility and perseverance speaks of a heart that seeking to please God and his fellow man. Applaud him for his efforts and express gratitude for his service so far to this nation and world.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace , longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Galations 5:22

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Christ Crucified




So where does this leave the philosophers, the scholars, and the world’s brilliant debaters? God has made the wisdom of this world look foolish. Since God in his wisdom saw to it that the world would never know him through human wisdom, he has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe. It is foolish to the Jews, who ask for signs from heaven. And it is foolish to the Greeks, who seek human wisdom. So when we preach that Christ was crucified, the Jews are offended and the Gentiles say its all nonsense
1Corinthians 1: 20-23

One of the most effective ways to reach people for Christ is presented in this piece of scripture. The Apostle Paul experienced first hand the power of Christ crucified with his experience on the Damascus road.
Christ crucified works not by what we can see or touch. Neither is it manifested in the process of mans theory or philosophy. It can not be comprehended through the dogmas of man and his way to worship.
To those whose philosophy is based on the concept of karma or deeds will come to find out that Christ crucified confounds that notion. Man and his ability to reason with the effects of sin and death is contrary to the power of God which is presented through Jesus Christ crucified. Christ crucifixion becomes offensive to those who hold on to the processes of this world and its application to sin. It becomes nonsense to those who look to the wisdom of men to deliver mankind from the challenges it faces in every facet of our lives.
It was love manifested by the Spirit of God that presented His son to the cross to save us. (John 3:16) Nothing else. When we preach Christ crucified we proclaim the love of God unconditionally in order for the Spirit of God to manifest the glory of God. It is available only when we proclaim the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord and apply it in every area of our lives. Not only in the presence of His precious Saints and body but also to those who do not believe.
Delivering the message of the cross is one that can be challenging to this world. Armed with the Spirit of God and the power of the risen Christ can we accomplish the mandate (Matthew 28:19) set before us by our risen King. To the Jews it is an offense (the traditions and religion) and to the Gentiles it is nonsense (the non believers and those who put there faith in this world).
Today continue to allow Christ to be crucified in your life. Understand and know it is the power of God that leads to salvation.
Ask the Lord today to allow you to see the cross and its message. Thank Him for His power to give us life through the cross. Bless him for giving you the opportunity to embrace it in every area of your life. Amen.
Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men,
and the weakness of God is stronger than men
1 Corinthians 1: 25

Monday, September 21, 2009

The Footstool Of God : Print of the Week Worship VI


In the past whenever I encountered the phrase "Footstool of God" I engaged the perception of His footstool being all of His creation. King David writes in Psalm 99;5 this phrase;"Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; for he is holy. As I continue to grow in faith I begin to realize that His footstool is greater than I can imagine. Everyday he encourages my attitude of worship as I relinquish all that am to Him. It is in this place that I exercise the choice to rest at the feet of the creator. The prophet Isaiah gives a wonderful insight as to the result of surrendering to this position before the Lord. In the 66 chapter and 23 verse it becomes tangible. It reads,"And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the LORD. .
There will be a time in all of our lives where we will engage the footstool of God. All of us will bow down before the King of Glory. My choice is to exercise that option now. Please do not hold out until His judgement comes upon you. The end result will have eternal consequences that none of us were made to bare. The heavens and the Earth are His footstool and in them His glory is revealed. Appreciate and worship Him in all that he has created.
Amen.
Worship VI is available for auction at the artist ArtByUs portfolio.
ArtByUs.com - Contemporary Artwork from Self-Representing Artists and Serious Art Galleries.

Friday, September 18, 2009

His Presence

For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power.
1 Corinthians 2: 2-5

One of the most effective ways I found in communicating Christ is demonstrated when our hearts and thoughts take on the fear of Him. I can identify with the apostle Paul in this passage concerning the weakness and fear. The message then becomes one that is presented with the power of God and not our own. The wisdom of men is unable to deliver the power because it is birthed in the hearts of man and not the breath of life distributed by God the Father through our Lord Jesus the Christ and the Holy Spirit. Only in the presence of the trinity can the substance that is hoped for matriculate into the promise and glory of God concerning those who believe Him. Without faith it is impossible to please Him. (Hebrews 11:6) If we can see it and control it it no longer belongs to God. Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. (1 Corinthians 2:9) We have not seen it yet or heard it or has it entered our hearts. This means that daily there is an opportunity to benefit from the presence of God. (Psalm 68:19)The power that rest with the fear of God is available to all of us. Let it be the resource we use to present the gospel of our Lord Jesus the Christ instead of the wisdom of men. Remember He is Lord and King. He will return to be seated on his throne for ever and ever. (Eternity) Love someone today. Spend time in the presence of the Lord so that you can effectively present a witness hinged on the power of God and not the wisdom of men.
Amen.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

One Limited Edition Fine Art Print


One of the artist inspiring pieces it centers around the image of marriage as the artist see it out of the book of Genesis 2:24 It reads: Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. 25 And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed. I imagined the man with the women attached climbing through the stars on the wind of the glory of God as he breathes on them to keep them attached throughout eternity.. Wow!Print comes signed by the artist with a Certificate of Authenticity

Available for bidding at our ArtByUs portfolio
ArtByUs.com - Contemporary Artwork from Self-Representing Artists and Serious Art Galleries.

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Windswept Limited Edition Fine Art Print Of The Week


This image was rendered in remembering those times when nothing else will do but a fresh wind from above. It presents us with the opportunity to rest and trust God through our challenges and circumstances.
"Thou liftest me up to the wind; thou causest me to ride upon it, and dissolvest my substance."
Job 30:22
Allow God to deliver you from those substances that hinder your ability to live
Windswept is available at auction at our ArtByUs portfolio
ArtByUs.com - Contemporary Artwork from Self-Representing Artists and Serious Art Galleries.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Poster of the Day: Jehovah Shalom

This poster is a Limited Edition set at 24 prints. It will be available through September 5 at 5pm Eastern time. Please be encouraged to bid for 70% of the proceeds will go to the Salvation Army to assist homeless children and families in the Phoenix area.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Poster of the Day


Today's poster "First Fight" is available for bidding at our ArtByUs portfolio.ArtByUs.com - Contemporary Artwork from Self-Representing Artists and Serious Art Galleries.
This poster is a Limited Edition set at 24 prints. It will be available through August 28 at 5pm Eastern time. Please be encouraged to bid for 70% of the proceeds will go to assisting homeless children and families in the Phoenix area.

Daily Auction of Posters and Images.


Starting Tuesday August 25 Mirhez Images will publish new images and posters at it's auction at our ArtByUs portfolio
ArtByUs.com - Contemporary Artwork from Self-Representing Artists and Serious Art Galleries.

Please be encouraged to participate. Seventy percent or more of the proceeds are donated to charities of the artist choosing or those selected by Artbyus.

Monday, August 24, 2009

The Power Of The Cross


For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
1 Corinthians 1:17,18

As I attemempt to analyze these statements i begin to realize that the true witness of the cross is not the words we sometime speak or preach. Neither is it the symbolism that accompanies relegious dogmas or tradition. The witness of the cross is realized and proclaimed by the heart as it dies to the nature of the world and becomes alive in the power of the Holy Spirit. As a living testimony of God's resurrection power we begin to come alive by the three virtues of the cross which begin with death, then the burial, and of course the resurrection. These three powerful acts of the cross is foolish to the natural world because it is contrary to what the world believes. The apostle Paul presents a very valid point when he emphasized in his writing that it is foolishness (ill-considered; unwise)
to them that are perishing. ( 1 Corinthians 1: 18) Try to explain to someone that Jesus Christ is the son of God to someone who is bent on believing that He is not is like teaching an aligator to speak Latin. With words and actions it is impossible. To illustrate to them that the trinity exist is like pulling teeth from a great white shark. I believe the only way you can succesfully pull teeth from a great white is to kill it. Get my point. So in other words the words that we speak sometimes as believers do not effectively translate or present a witness to the unbelievers who are challenged by traditon, religion and wordly wisdom.
In order for an effective witness to live in the realm of these umbelivers we have to illustrate the Love of God not only with words but with our living example. For myself it is accomplished with a daily communication with God through prayer, meditation, faith , fellowship and by the word of God. as we grow in these area's our witness to the Lord Jesus the Christ becomes more powerful and effective. We have to go into those places where the spirit of God is dead and become a witness to the light of the world by shinning brightly in those areas. But remember in order for our light to shine we have to have oil(exodus 25:6) for the lamp. (Revelation)
As we move closer to the coming of our Lord Jesus the Christ lets realize that in some of those instances were we witness the Spirit Of God has already preceeded us. (Acts 18:9) It is by our witness weather the spirit of God that was presented either lives or dies. As Christians we are to be a living witness to the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of the Lord Jesus the Christ. This means that the ways of the world need to die in us, the nonsense and wisdom of the world needs to be burried with us, and the resurrection power of God should lives in us through our Lord Jesus the Christ. That resurrection power is demonstrated through Love. (John 3:16) There should be healings, deliverance,transformations and testimonies to the miraculous power demonstrated in each witness. As I close there is one scripture that presents a powerful promise of God as we bear witness in these truths .It says; Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.(Romans 10:11)
Take the Holy Spirit with you today and allow Him to live in every area of your life
Amen

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Jehovah Shalom




Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.
Isaiah 12: 2

Finding peace in the midst of our daily lives can present a challenge for us. Without the presence of a covenant keeping fair and just Lord we become slaves to the very issues that he bled and died for.. As we swing into the later part of this year it is those issues that we chose to take on in our own strength that will remove us from the refuge and shelter provided by Him. Notice how in the Old and New Testaments the witnesses of God's glory visits those issues that are present when we make the choice to exclude God and not allow him in the presence of our circumstances or challenges. Psalm 91 opens with this jewel of wisdom . It reads
" He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High( God the Father) shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.(God the Son (Jesus))
I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress( the Holy Spirit): my God; in him will I trust."
It is in this manner that we find His pleasure and protection. It is a act that is contingent upon a choice made of self.. No one can make it for you, coach you to it ,or encase it in a building, club, clck , or culture. It is written and programmed into your heart. It was and still is God's intention to be Lord over your present life and your eternal one. Allow him to be Lord Jehovah and the peace for you today. Take time to trust Him in all of your affairs. Let Him be your saving grace and the sweet and glorius song off your lips. Remember He is your salvation
Amen

Monday, August 10, 2009

First Fight


It is somewhat relational concerning the first fight and the fighting that presents itself in our lives on a continual basis. Lets look at the first fight and find the similarities.

And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering. But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him. And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him. And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper? Genesis 4: 2 - 9
Every day of our lives we struggle with the issue that set off Cain. Most of the time it is not in relationship with pleasing our Father in Heaven, but our own selfish motives. We make statements like I can't stand him/her concerning a co worker, relative, neighbor or aquaintance. Usually it is driven by pride as it relates to who is superior. We make comments about those in leadership for instance the current administration in Washington D.C. that is attacked on all sides because it doesn"t live up to a standard raised by the party opposite of the one thats in position. Why can we not encourage our brother in his effort to do well? Where is the harm in expressing love instead of hate or division. In Matthew 7 Jesus kind of hints at the solution to solving this issue. He says,
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." Matthew 7: 4,5
Usually the root of the fighting or issue is one that identifies with self. The very issue we struggle with is usually magnified to a point that it kills the life or opportunity that is presented to make us better. Understand that God did not respect what Cain was offering. To the contrary He respected Abel's. As a result in his blindness and misunderstanding Cain slew his brother.
My prayer is that as we take a look at this fight to get a clear understanding of how to be our brothers keeper. In the end lets not wage war over differences in culture, race, money, status, class,and position. Lets take our example from our God who hung his only begotten on a tree in order to have a relationship with us for an eternity. One that is matriculated in love not hate regardless of our failures.
Amen

Friday, August 7, 2009

Resurrection


The third and final part of my trio of images is Resurrection. It is in this part that we come to take part in what God had in store for us in the first place, Paradise. As in his example it is only by faith that we enter into this virtue. Ever get that feeling when you rest in God that peace and joy that can not be explained. You can't describe it to no one because each time it overwhelms the soul. Visit this scene in the book of Acts that blows the doors off of the whole experience. Check out this illustration of Christ ascending onto the Father


But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven." Acts 1: 8-11


Also in this piece it indicates that our Lord will return and recieve us unto Him. Just writing about it produces a shout in me. It's that same feeling that you get when the thing you are most passionate about exceeds abundantly above all you can ask or think. Wow!!

Allow that power that rose Christ unto the Father the opportunity to resurrect those disasters and dead situations in you life. There is nothing more powerful than allowing the God of Heaven and Earth the opportunity to pull you up by your bootstraps to share in his Glory
Amen


Amen

Burial


In this second image of the trio, part of the activity written by God for the cross was presented in the burial. Scripture says that Christ died and was risen three days later. It is interesting that in that process he is presented the opportunity to bury all that was placed on Him at the Cross. This has to take place in order for Him to ascend to the Father. Here is an illustration of what took place.

" I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death." Revelation 1:18

Notice in this piece from the book of Revelation that our Lord had to enter that place to take back what belonged to him. The keys to death and hell. That opportunity is afforded to us on a regular basis. Our victories come when we are able to bury those issues that torment us and challenge us in our lives. It is when we take it and leave it beneath us when the Lord of Glory presents us with life . Understand that it is a process that we have to grab hold of on a continual basis. God knows our challenges, but he also knows our strengths. The apostle Paul hints on this as he writes in the letter to the Romans in the 12th chapter. Notice he speaks of transformation. . check it out,

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2

Unless the burial process is in place it becomes very challenging to line up with the Kingdom of God concerning the will he has for our lives.

Amen

Death


Part of a trio of images presenting my view and perspective of the cross of Jesus Christ. Through the Spirit of God we are presented with opportunities to die to ourselves and allow him to come alive in us. This first image illustrates that action as we approach and view the cross its power and the glory. In the book of Daniel the prophet gets a visit on the side of the river from the Lord (some say an angel). Notice the activity and what took place by the prophets own admission. He died. Check it out,
"And, behold, one like the similitude of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before me, O my lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have retained no strength. For how can the servant of this my lord talk with this my lord? for as for me, straightway there remained no strength in me, neither is there breath left in me. Then there came again and touched me one like the appearance of a man, and he strengthened me, And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me." Isaiah 10: 16 - 19
As we can see with this illustration from the prophet death has to reign in order for us to open our soul up to Him to whom it belongs. This can be applied to every area of our lives. Let Christ become the Lord of it all. Each day when I look upon the Cross this view is always presented to me. It is upon my death in relinquishing my spirit that I become alive in the Holy Spirit.
Amen

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Brotherly Love

Born into a world that places an emphasis on self (narcisism) the perception of our existence is filtered and blocked by motives that are self defeating. Our Lord places an emphasis on loving your neighbor like a brother. The apostle Paul writes in Romans 12:10 "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; ".There are times when loving your brother can be the most challenging test to our faith. When we remove self and allow Christ to sit on the throne miracles occur. Those challenging issues become shouts of praise. Honor and love one another and allow Christ to use your example for his glory Amen

Brotherly Love can be purchased at my Imagekind Portfolio







Breath of Life

In the beginning it started for man with the breath of life. Interesting that God in all his creation chose to create us in His image. It is in that image that we offer glory unto the creator. In all of our travels , experiences, relationships, sacrafices, joy's , disappointments, victories and defeats that breath is sufficent enough to extend us into the next hour. Every hour of our life the breath deposited by the creator provides us with opportunity to exhale the goodness and greatness of God. As we continue on this journey towards eterinity lets not forget Christ was risen by the same breath , which also appeared on the day of Pentecost. He breathes today ! All we have to do is rest and take in the breath of life Recieve iit today. Dont leave home without it. Genesis 2:7Amen

Thursday, July 30, 2009

A Love Performance




Each day we are presented with the opportunity to perfom the script written by the Lord Jesus the Christ. Most of the time we reject the script because we interpret it in a manner that is not in line with the genre the script was written in. The script was written in love and the genre it is presented iin is the heart. Notice that those who performed the script satifactorily perfomed it from the heart and not with the eyes , ears and the dogmas of man. But with the grace, mercy , favor and love of God through the script writer the Lord Jesus the Christ . Even when we see Him perform the script on the cross we are blessed with a performance that will last for eternity. One that was designed by the creator of the universe to present to us an image of how valuable we are to Him. He encourages us with the masterful portrayal of love performed in between two actors who are masterful in there own right. The one performer fear presents to us his character in a manner that love can not recieve, unbelief. The other character faith performs wonderfully and produces a tremdous supporting role to love. In return love 's role produces a performance which will bless us for eternity. Visit the heart today so that you can visualize and witness this perfomance in all the area's of your life. Remember the character fear is always looking to out perfom love and faith. If that is presented shut it down and play it again. Unless it is performed the way it is written it will not live up to the creators satisfaction.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Jesus Christ T- Shirt


The home of our King is in Jerusalem

Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.

Revelation 3:12

Tee is avaiable at our Redbubble Portfolio. Hope you enjoy

Buy t-shirts

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Superstar


In the hour in which we live many of the " so called" stars surrounding us are falling in large numbers. Either it be by death, immorality,sickness , disease, accident or what have you there is still on certain truth. The Apostle Paul writes this in 2 Timothy
"That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;"
There is no doubt that if you are created under the Heavens you will confess Jesus as Lord and King. Unfortunately some will miss the opportunity to confess it before departing into eternity. Lets stop wrestling with the Lord and confess Him Lord. Upon that confession and belief in your heart, that power that raised Jesus out of the tomb will deliver you from an eternal Hell. The script is already written and the epic battle is already won. Jesus will sit on His throne for eternity.
My prayer today is for those who do not know Jesus to come and ask him into there lives. Believe that He is risen and sits at the right hand of the Father making intercession for your present and eternal being.
Trully there is no one under the Heavens or Earth who can wear the title as "Superstar" like Jesus Christ. It's His creation
Amen



Sunday, July 19, 2009

Repent


This is one of my t-shirt designs located at my redbubble portfolio.
"Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. " Revelation 3:3
Amen