Inspirational Heirlooms
Sunday December 14, 2008

Greetings Family! I would like to share with you a message that I was reminded of on Friday and last night. I don't believe in fate or coincidence. God is constantly showing me His glory slowly but surely being revealed in the worst of any storm. God does not make mistakes. In God's eyes, there is no such thing as "the nick of time" or "being in the right place at the right time". God has to remind me occasionally of what He has shown me ever since I was a little girl: I was not an accident. God is not like man who believes in "these things happen for a reason". God picked me to be His child and to fulfill His plans for me long before my parents thought about having children. Although its hard and my journey has not been painless, I consider it an honor to be known as one of God's daughter's.

1 Peter 2:9

" You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people".



Saturday December 13, 2008

Good Morning Family! It is cold and I am getting ready to walk out the door and report to military training. This is truly one of those days wherein I can happily stay home underneath the covers. Yet I must stay focused. I must remember to keep my eyes trained on God. I have learned to do it regularly. Attempting to stay fixed on Him is a constant part of my spiritual diet. It doesn't matter how hectic my schedule is. It doesn't matter if my options that originally appeared healthy looking are now thin. It doesn't matter if my hope will occasionally grow dim. It doesn't matter if friends or family disappoint me. It doesn't matter if it seems as if a dream that I had died or lies dormant for a while. It doesn't matter if things that I arranged did not occur as I planned them. It doesn't matter if someone breaks my heart. It does not matter if my view of the world temporarily looks dim. I have to stay focused on Him. There is no other way.

Hebrews 12:2

" Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith".




Friday December 12, 2008

Greetings Family! As I sit here at 2:03 this morning, I reflect on just how good our Father is and how much I have been able to go THROUGH this years storms with His grace and mercy. I can never be "under" any circumstances because He told me that I am MORE than an conqueror. He told me not to worry about my light afflictions or don't think that its strange because I have dealt with some things. He told me that it is better to suffer for Christ so that God's glory can be revealed, than to go through hell for man. He told me that when I feel like a failure, His grace is sufficient for me in my weakness. When I cry, He has told me that my weeping may endure for a night but my joy will come in the morning. Family, I can only talk for me but throughout my journey, God has definitely been by my side, walking with or carrying me, molding, shaping, training, breaking down my pride and replacing it with humility and most importantly, He has been pruning and preparing me. In spite of the heartbreaks, disappointments and sometimes moments of depression or woe-is-me, I know that He will always be there.

Psalm 91:2

" My refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust."




Thursday December 11, 2008

Greetings Family! I hope that today's inspiration finds you in the best of health and spirits. How many of you at the drop of a dime, had to share your knowledge of a certain subject and you were totally unaware that you had that much knowledge in you until that very moment? Well on yesterday, I was sitting down at work, reading my Bible. A young man at my workplace walked by. He said," MSgt Jones, what Scriptures are you reading"? What started off as a simple question turned into a conversation on various topics about life. He asked me things about premarital sex, friends, family, obedience, marriage, wives, husbands, love, religion, faith and even how to choose the "right woman". It was an interesting conversation and it brought confirmation to me in more ways than one. I was really dreading this week of training. I was told by my spiritual mother that my purpose for this week was to be a light and a witness for some folks on this week. The main question that he had was how could he believe in Someone that he could not see? God reminded me earlier this week that I must always be ready to defend and show a reason for my faith in Him. There is just no other way that I could live unless He was with me at all times.

Hebrews 4:12

" For the word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit and of joints and marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart".




Wednesday December 10, 2008

Greetings Family! I have military training this week so I am up earlier than usual. Have you ever just stopped and said to our Father: "God I don't know why you are doing this, but I am going to be obedient". He is so awesome in how He molds and shapes us while fixing any problem, situation, circumstance, dilemma, issue that we are currently in or are facing. On top of all of that, He mysteriously manages to bless us at the same time! I know if He left things up to me to repair, I would make a total mess of things. Our Father is sovereign and His knowledge is infinite. He is omnipotent and does not need anything from us accept for our willingness to do His will. Just knowing that He is in control before I can open my mouth to say that I need to talk to Him is more than enough to make me smile. Just knowing that I can stand on His Word which always yield more than a high return is enough to make my heart jump for joy. Just knowing Him is enough.


Isaiah 55:8-11

" For My thoughts are not your thoughts. Nor are your ways My ways", says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain comes down and the snow from heaven and do not return there, but water the earth and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it."





Tuesday December 9, 2008

Greetings! I have military training this week. I was GENTLY reminded that my life as His child can be summed up like this: His will versus mine. On Sunday night I had to answer: " Who is in charge here?" I receive emails from people or have conversations with those who tell me how good God is or how He takes care of them. Yet I will be the first one to admit that God had to teach me the difference between trusting in Him and allowing Him to be in control of me completely. Ask yourself this question: He takes care of you but how long has He been in CONTROL of you?


Psalm 8:4
" What is man that You take thought of him?"




Monday December 8, 2008

Greetings Everyone! The hardest thing to deal with is a family member who is hurting, troubled or worse yet, dying. Your faith is the most difficult thing to hold on to; especially when that is all that you have left sometimes. Family, we must hold on. It does not matter what it looks like, it does not matter what it feels like, it does not matter what you hear as long as you keep your faith. Having faith in something that you can see is meaningless because you already know that its there. Your faith in God is what gets you through when you can't see or hear your breakthrough.

2 Corinthians 5:7

" For we walk by faith and not by sight".



Sunday December 7, 2008

Greetings! The other day I received an email explaining to me about work and how it was a virus. The instructions in the email stipulated that I stay home as a result of being exposed to this "virus". Working is not a curse. Adam was blessed with the task of keeping the Garden before sin ever reared its ugly head. So what was curse you ask? The addition of thorns, thistles that suddenly made us sweat, toil which made working a "hassle". Yet working for God is a blessing. It is a gift. It is a Divine call that is and will be carried out for His Glory.

Proverbs 21:20

" There is precious treasure and oil in the dwelling of the wise".



Saturday December 6, 2008

Good Morning Family! I hope that all is well with everyone! Whch do you prefer at a dance? Do you like to lean on a wall or get up and move? Do you color within the lines or you dom't care as lon as you are coloring? For those who know me, I am not a conformist. I tend to walk into the dance and move to my own music. I don't wait until my favorite song comes on. I just dance anyway. For those of you who are eagles, its okay to soar above the crowd. There is nothing wrong with being bored with maintaining machines, getting sleepy through rules, that restless feeling to do something new, or becoming excited at embracing a risks instead of being afraid. Just know that you won't receive many pats on the back or standing ovations. There may be a few times that you will lose a job, fail some classes and even make a few people upset. For those of you who live by your own code, we are not known for staying in the fence or being comfortable in a box. As my sister told me today, " she is not traditional". Not being content with average will make some people edgy. However, please do not lose heart. I will move over because you have a friend in me!

Proverbs 5:21

" The ways of a man are before the eyes of the Lord and He watches all his paths.





Friday December 5, 2008

Greetings! I remember this song from "back in the day" entitled " I Want To Know What Love Is". How many of you remember that tune? It was very popular and crossed all kinds of musical genres when it came out. My favorite part of the song's lyrics are as follows: I want to know what love is... I want you to show me... How many of you truly understand the magnitude of showing love? Love in its purest form is unconditional. Love is not judgemental. Many of you may say that you believe in God. Yet some of you hate or harbor some unforgiveness in your heart for someone as I type this update. Love is not about hatred or resentment. Love makes you courageous and not afraid. You must love in order to live. There is only existence in space when there is no love. Being loved and loving allows you to breathe, grow and glow. Try it in its purest form and you might like it. Make sure you have forgiven those who have hurt you in order for you to fully appreciate the beautiful rewards that come with LOVE.


1 John 4:7-9

"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God Is Love".





Thursday December 4, 2008

Good Morning! If money is your main goal for happiness, you will always live in fear of losing it. That lost will open the door for paranoia and being suspicious of anything and everyone. If notoriety is the only thing on your agenda, you will become highly competitive, believing that someone is trying to take your place which will bring in jealousy. If you desire power that will steer you toward arrogance, selfishness and downright stubborn behavior. If your material possessions are the only things that you worship, you will become greedy for more. Then you will receive more than you have been striving for. If is not about pure, natural contentment and joy,planting seeds for something that we all can taste and eat the sweetness of later, what does it matter anyway?

Philippians 1:21

" For to me, living means opportunities for Christ and dying- well that's better yet!"




Wednesday December 3, 2008

Greetings Family! I hope that this crisp fall morning finds each of you in the best of health and spirits. I won't call that individual by his name because he simply has no power or authority in or over my life and the lives of my family members or friends. The so called prince of this world loves to tease our souls by bringing up our past, our shortcomings, all the times that we have been wrong, all of our disappointments, disasters, mistreatment and tragedies. If you allow him or his imps to continue in their mission in seeking and devouring, you will be traveling down a seemingly never-ending dismal tunnel. Your spiritual eyes will become adjusted to the dimness or the "prospect" of no light at the end of the road. Graciously, God has given us a glorious solution that always makes the difference.


Philippians 3:13-14

"Forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on.




Tuesday December 2, 2008

Greetings Family! I hope that all is well with you. I was talking to someone earlier this weekend about humility. To be humble in your heart means total submission down to the bone. It includes being more interested in helping others and fulfilling their needs than having your needs achieved. Someone who is truly unselfish is liberal with their time, possessions, talents, gifts, energy and even money. Of course this can be displayed in several ways. You will see thoughtfulness, gentleness, a sincere and genuine spirit as well as the heart of servant under leadership.


Phillipians 2:3

" With humility of mind, regard one another as more important than yourselves. "




Monday December 1, 2008

Greetings Family! I hope that you are doing well. I am constantly being aware that my Father allows suffering so that I can learn what it means to depend solely upon Him. Repeatedly He has reminded me of the danger of pride. Yet sometimes, I can be a little hard headed and He will sprinkle in some of us His suffering to make His lesson adhere to my inner man. My Father will also allow suffering so that I can learn to give thanks in everything. I will be the first one to admit that I have difficulty with thanking God in the beginning for a test until afterwards and I have endured with His grace. How many of you have just simply halted your steps and said thanks to our Father for His lovingkindness and His reign over your lives? If it wasn't for rain, how would you be able to recognize and appreciate His Son?

Psalm 27:3

" Though a host encamp against me, my heart will not fear, I shall be confident".



Sunday November 30, 2008

Greetings! How many of you have looked the word IMPOSSIBLE in the face and not flinched? How many of you have looked IMPOSSIBLE in the eyes and not run away? How many of you have openly embraced IMPOSSIBLE with welcome arms and a smile? Sounds crazy right? I am still learning that when I face an impossibility, I have to leave it in the hands of the One who specializes in making the impossible, POSSIBLE. I can't calculate. I can't doubt Him. Its foolish for me even to think that I can work it out on my own.
I have two choices to make. One I can worry about whatever it is. Or two, tell the Lord, " I am attempting to carry a burden, problem, situation, circumstance, dilemma, sickness, hatred, resentment, bitterness, anger, malice, jealousy, envy, pressures, unforgiveness, shameful past, addictions and I can't handle this. I know that You are more than capable and willing so please take this from me. Right now Lord, in my eyes, all of this seems impossible. Yet with You Lord, all things are possible". Enduring through the storms of impossibilities demands this kind of faith and confidence in Him.

Isaiah 49:16

" I will not forget you! See I have engraved you on the palms of my hands. "


Saturday November 29, 2008

Greetings Family! Have you ever made plans to do some things that you have wanted to do and it does not happen that way? I am talking about the plans that you make when you set a day aside for certain things and then in the blink of an eye, you have to change them? I mean that on-the-spot-, no-time-to-question-your-flexibility-right-now-make-it-happen-move? Just reflect on this for a moment. Are you living every day as if its your last for God's or your glory? Do you work diligently at work and in your home for His namesake or yours? Do you utilize the opportunity to shake your salt or shine His light when it arises? Are you doing your best to maintain your diet by partaking and sharing of the Fruits of the Spirit? On yesterday while shopping, everything that I had planned to do changed in the twinkling of my eyes. I realized that at the end of the day, I did exactly what God would have me to do. I took advantage of the chances that He gave me to allow His light to shine, give flavor to those who desired it while showing His love through my actions and not just using my MOUTH to state how awesome and wonderful He is. I gave flowers to those who could see and smell them. You can't ask for one more chance to be obedient when He returns, when you are in a casket or stretched out on a gurney.

1 Thessalonians 4:16

" The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout and the dead in Christ will rise first".




Friday November 28, 2008

Good Morning Family! I got up early this morning to update this link. Have you ever been awakened out of a deep sleep and did not know why? When do you find the time to regroup or just simply stop and reflect with no distractions, no interruptions, nothing but you and your thoughts? For me, its at these wee hours in the morning that God will talk or deal with me. Sometimes God will "drop" a friend or loved one into my spirit. At other times, He will simply just work on me. Its good to reflect, chew on your thoughts and get rid of what is not needed internally anymore. I try to take out the trash as often as possible. Clutter can clog your environment in more ways than one.


Psalm 63:6
" When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches".




Thursday November 27, 2008

Psalm 100

Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness, come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; it is He who has made us and not we ourselves. We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting and His truth endures to all generations.

Have A Blessed Thanksgiving Family. Every day should be about Thanksliving!
I love each and every one of you. Thanks so much for your support throughout the years. For those whose homes I shared with poetry parties, those of you who shared open mic with me in the desert, the after hour conversations after open mic in the desert, the military installations that I have visited with friends, those of you whom I have shared my front porch with citronella candles, occasional sips of wine, tea and sparkling white grape juice, or numerous phone conversations that extended well past my bedtime, I Thank You for opening your world, your mind and most importantly your hearts. Be blessed on this day that our Father has graced us with. Before you complain, count your blessings.

Da-Boogie





Wednesday November 26, 2008

Good Morning Family! I have rediscovered throughout this year that one thing while I am trusting in God, I must accept what He does, says or gives to me. Let me elaborate a little bit. My acceptance is taking from my Father's Hands, absolutely anything He gives. I have to trust that while I am staring into His Face with my trust and thanksgiving, I have to chew on the knowledge that the protective hedge that He has placed me in is not only for my good but His glory. At times, what I have endured has been very painful, yet its like eating my " spiritual vegetables" that He allows to be set before me. My acceptance comes from resting in my Father's goodness, while believing that He has all things under control- even when people are doing what is wrong.


Galatians 6:9

" Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary".





Tuesday November 25, 2008

Greetings Family! I hope that you are doing well on this day. I am sitting here in the process of getting my summer/spring clothes back into my attic so that I can bring my fall/winter clothes down to wear. How many of you are still holding onto some old habits that are threatening to take control again? I am daily discovering that we need to tap into and get a vise grip on the power that comes from God's presence. I feel the need to invite Him into my life regularly to cleanse my thoughts, to correct my speech, to be forgiven completely and to continue to make me a holy vessel. I encourage you to take a really hard and honest look at how you are living. Upon self-examining, this is a wonderful time to allow God to bring some fresh order out of the chaos in your life. I often refer to myself as "spiritually under construction". I am working on the outside while God re-creates the inside.


Psalm 19:1
" Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight".




Monday November 24, 2008

Good Morning Family! As we approach Thanksgiving, I would like to remind you of the fact that we need each other. Nobody is a whole chain. Each one of us is a link. If you take away one link, the chain is instantly broken. One person does not make the whole football team. Each person is a player. If you take away one player, the game can be forfeited. Nobody is a whole orchestra. If you take away one musician, the orchestra would be considered incomplete. Family, we need each other. You need someone and someone needs you.


Colossians 1:9
" For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding".



Sunday November 23, 2008

Greetings! How many of have had those relatives that can " see" into the future? I have some family members who will have dreams about anything. If they dreamed about fish, someone is pregnant. If they dream about birth, you are supposed to " turn it around". Birth is death, death is birth. If you dream about a man, its a woman and vice versa. I can even remember when those same relatives would state which one of the children would have "the gift". No one can predict the future. Only God has our future in the palm of His Hands. Only God has the power to grant gifts and talents. Only God has the ability to touch someone and use them as a vessel to do His will or convey a message to His children. What God establishes and blesses you with, no one can take it away or destroy. A 1-800- Number for a prediction about your future, or looking at your zodiac sign or visiting Sister Rose by paying her light bill, can only ensure you a direct line, first class to hell.

Joel 2:28

" And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions".


Saturday November 22, 2008

Hello Everyone! I hope that as we embrace the weekend, you are all doing well. I am sitting here, listening to the wind blow against the windows of my home. I used to be amazed as a child during severe thunderstorms. The wind would rage, the lightening would strike and the thunder would roll. Many homes would fall under the weight of "God's work" as my Grandmother Alberta used to call it. My siblings and I had to be quiet while " God was doing His work" or else we would get one of the many spankings of our lives. We were told and taught to not only respect God but honor His strength. He is an impenetrable, infinite source of Power that will never be moved. He will not change with the seasons, weather or advances made medically, scientifically or religiously by society.

Psalm 18:1-2

" I will love thee, O Lord,my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler and the horn of my salvation and my high tower."



Friday November 21, 2008

Greetings Family! Have you ever stumbled upon a crossroad and realized that you are lost and unsure as to what steps to take next? Its at these times that we should ask God for His help. Trust me when I tell you that God will bestow more than just intelligence, ideas and some common sense. He will sprinkle a few drops from His well of wisdom and allow us to drink from His cupped hands. His insight is beyond anything that we as His children would ever comprehend.

James 1:5

"If any of you lacks wisdom let him ask of God, who gives to all generously".




Thursday November 20, 2008

Greetings Family! How many of you have had people that you have never met before, start up a conversation with you as if you have known them all of your life? That happened to me twice on yesterday. The most memorable occurred at a gas station near my home. As I approached the door to enter, a " seasoned" woman walked out. She stopped me with, " You look so pretty. Don't I know you"? Of course, I did not think that I looked pretty at all. I had just finished my daily workout at the gym and my hair looked like it spent a few minutes on the treadmill without me. I had never met this woman before until yesterday. I talked with her and ended up helping her while in the store at the gas station. Toward the end of our conversation, she told me about some health issues that she was having and asked me to pray for her. I asked for her name and promised to add her to a prayer list that is steadily growing. My parents, grandparents, teachers and countless mentors throughout my evolving years as a child, drilled into me the importance of having as well as applying good manners and respect. The statement: " Lane, manners and respect will carry far in life" has been proven to be valuable and "nuttin but da trut" as my Grandmother Alberta used to say. Although I did not get the gas that I wanted, I realized that I was supposed to stop and minister to this lady. In those brief moments of conversation, I forgot about my fatigue, what I had to do when I got home, what I have on tap for the rest of this week and whatever issues that was of a concern to me. I treated her like the angel she appeared to be. Please treat people how you would like to be treated. You never know who or what God has placed in their lives that is your blessing, miracle or breakthrough waiting in other earthen vessels. Remember before you plant seeds, ensure that you will be able to eat the fruit that is produced later on.

Hebrews 13:2

" Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares".




Wednesday November 19, 2008

Good Morning Family! It is a balmy 24 degrees outside. Have you ever had to embrace a situation or a problem and wondered if you would make it? I am only talking to those individuals who can spell tired in more ways than one. I am speaking to those folks who have been so low that it takes an extreme amount of effort to pray. I am giving a voice to my thoughts for those who can relate to feeling like you are in a relay race with life and then you discover that you are the only one who can complete this test. I am having a conversation with folks who have laid down at night and gave the sun a wake up call because you did not sleep. If any of these statements sound familiar, here is my last one. I am sharing my former trials with those who felt as if that one more step took entirely too much energy that you did not have to spare. What I have learned throughout my many storms and seasons in life, is that if I hold on with all of my might, I will get what I have strived so hard for. You may occasionally give out of energy but please don't give up on your dreams. You may tire but don't stop moving forward. You may think to yourself that you can't win, so there is no need to even try. We have all heard the cliche's and positive pep talks. My most memorable quote from childhood is this: Your attitude determines your altitude. If you want to excel, you must climb a few mountains. You will have to travel slowly and sometimes very painfully through some valleys. However if you continue to keep the faith and always hope for the best, the view from the top is spectacular.

Galatians 6:9

" And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart".




Tuesday November 18, 2008

Greetings Family! It is around this time of year that most remember what this holiday season means. Some of us don't have to wait until Thanksgiving or Christmas to remember that there are others that are less fortunate than themselves. Family, everyone in this recession is feeling a pinch in one way or another. Even when you think that you have it hard, there is always someone that is in a predicament that is worse than yours. The concept of reaping and sowing is nothing new. However, if you are led to share or help someone, please be advised, sincerity is key. If you sow a seed of ambition or selfish gain, be wary of the underdeveloped fruit that you reap in return. You will have to eat it in one way or another. If you or when you help others, you should do it with your feelings in mind. How would you feel if someone performed a generous and selfless act for you? Or how you would feel to discover that someone helped you with an alternative, personally negative agenda in mind that really had nothing at all to do with helping you out? A closed mind and a partially opened heart is just like oil and water. The two will never mix, merge or blend together. God loves a joyful giver. Family, just know; whatever is in your heart, that is exactly what will be on display for others to see. If you are a selfish person, that is what will be revealed in your actions. Please do not ever allow your good deeds to be thought of as evil. Any kindness that you show should come from an open and generous heart. So when asked, you can say calmly and with peace " Love has everything to do with it".

Ephesians 6: 6-8

" Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord, whether he is slave or free."





Monday November 17, 2008

Good Morning Family! How many of you have friends that you can trust? How many of you have friends that when you attempt to talk to them about your thoughts or your situation, you end up feeling worse than what you did before you started sharing what was on your heart? Family, you have to be careful of whom and what you allow to be deposited into your spirit, especially when you have been weakened by a circumstance or problem. Everyone who cries " Hallelujah" out loud doesn't necessarily mean that they have God in their hearts or they are being led by the Holy Spirit. Beware of advice that is confusing or just does not echo comfortably into your spirit. Pray and seek His wisdom, His clarity and His peace when it comes to what you see and hear. Allow God to be your "filter" to avoid foolishness and other debris from entering your environment and cluttering your atmosphere. Trust in God to unveil what should be revealed to you as well as what you should listen to and absorb. Family, stand still in your storm and know that He has your best interests in mind.

Psalm 1:1

" Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful."





Sunday November 16, 2008

Good Morning Family! I was promoted to MSgt or E-7 on yesterday morning. It was effective October 1st but the ceremony could not be held until this month. How many of you are aware that God has blessings in store for us as long as we are obedient and keep our hearts soft to Him, His will and way? If we turn away, we risk more than some of us will ever know. I remember when I was growing up, my parents would tell me that if I kept good grades, behaved myself in school, I would be able to participate in as many activities as my body and mind could handle. Sounds really easy right? Well you know the flesh is weak, so I definitely had my moments as a child. Now as an adult, I still have my moments. However, since I know that blessings are waiting for me and all that I have to do is be obedient, follow where God leads me and then by faith,reach out and grab my inheritance? Too easy. Family, remember The Gospel is simple. We as His children make it difficult with or by the choices that we make. God's favor is fruitful toward His children but there are those (in the world) who will always think that His favor is unfair. Just do what you are told, stay on your post and God will take care of the rest.

Deuteronomy 28:2, 15

" And all these blessings shall come on thee and overtake thee,if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God." But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you".




Saturday November 15, 2008

Good Morning Family! I hope that today's inspiration finds you in the best of health and spirits. I went to a women's retreat last night and received confirmation of some things that I asked of God. Have you ever received a promise from God and it seems as if it will never come to pass? How long are you willing to wait until God has His perfect Way? The Bible is filled with people who no matter what, waited until God gave them what He promised. God does not need our help with anything. All that He requires is faith, obedience and patience. Don't mess up what God has promised by mixing your hands in it and you might end up missing out on something beautiful.

Genesis 17:15-16

" Then God said to Abraham, "As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. And I will bless her and also give you a son by her; then I will bless her and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples shall be from her".




Friday November 14, 2008

Hello Family! I hope that all is well as we enter the weekend. How many of you ever belonged to a club or an organization that stimulated your interest at the beginning and then after a while, you became bored or wondered why you joined in the first place? Eventually you either stopped attending meetings, paying dues or participating in events because you felt it was a waste of your time. Guess what? When you decide to "take up your cross" and follow Christ, have an active relationship with God, the gifts that He has available are beyond your wildest dreams. God is merciful on a regular basis. God will make the Energizer Bunny rest in peace with His grace alone. You won't ever have to worry about where your money goes, alternative or personal agendas, backbiting, gossip or betrayal, conceit, manipulation, your next meal, conflict or any other foolishness that comes from being in the world as you would while being a Child of God. The rewards that He has for His children are plentiful, bountiful and waiting. All that you have to do is believe that He gave His only Son, Jesus for our sins and give your life to Him. Watch what you receive simply by believing and trusting in Him. He is awesome and you won't have to get branded with a tattoo because the Light that He places inside of you is His mark for you as His glory is revealed for the world to see.

Psalm 68: 19

" Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits. The God of our salvation! Selah





Thursday November 13, 2008

Greetings Family! I hope that all is well. Today, I want to talk about faith and patience. Those two words seem like they are far apart but they go together like trials and victory. Without faith, it is hard to have patience when you are going through a trial and achieve victory. Yet when you sit back while holding on to your faith, those things that seemed impossible at the beginning, as the journey progresses, you can see probability slowly but surely turn into reality and it becomes more than apparent what is on the other side, His blessings waiting for you. Without faith, its impossible to receive His ultimate rewards. When God allows things to happen, trust that He is in control of everything in the natural and most importantly in the spiritual realm. So today, you will receive a double dose so that you can see for yourselves that faith and patience pays off. Don't monitor what you see physically. Sit back watch not only what God does but how He operates.

Hebrews 11:6
" Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and a that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him".


Psalm 46: 10
" Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!





Wednesday November 12, 2008

Good Morning Everyone! I was devastated by the tragic news of the killing of three family members by a well known celebrity artist to include her nephew. Just recently in the state where I reside, a young 12 year old was killed by an automatic weapon. My brother and sisters, our children are one of the few remaining priceless resources left for our future. The recession is not just on a financial level for our society. The recession reaches many levels, physically with our health, emotionally with the responses to the changes in our society, mentally with the stress that comes with it and spiritually because of the breakdown of the morals in society today. If you are blessed to be a mentor, a parent in any way, shape or form, you are blessed and be mindful of the responsibility that comes with loving and nurturing a child/children. If you can't help a child, please don't hurt or harm them. My grandmother used to tell me that God watches out for children and fools. I have not seen that fail yet.

Luke 17:2

" It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones."




Tuesday November 11, 2008

Greetings Family! I hope that as we embrace Veterans Day, you are all in the best of health and spirits. I was talking with a young lady on yesterday about mistreatment. Family, whatever form mistreatment takes, it hurts. You feel the terrible rejection. You've done what is right but you have been treated unfairly. In the midst of all of this, remember, God has not left your side. God has definitely not forgotten about you. He has not "kicked you to the curb". God understands the heartache brought on by the evil that He permits so He can you bring you to a tender and more gentle walk with Him. God is good. Jesus Christ is real. So don't focus on your current circumstances. Be still and know who is in charge and to Whom you belong.

Jeremiah 31:9

" I will make them walk by streams of waters, on a straight path in which they will not stumble."




Monday November 10, 2008

Greetings Everyone! I spoke with my daughter this weekend. She asked me if I have ever felt afraid of the unknown? I told her that I would not be human if I did not admit to being fearful of what I could not see. However, I told her that my faith and relationship with God, I am quickly brought back on track. I told her that as long as God is in control, as long as He is in the midst, as long as He is leading and guiding me, we have nothing to fear but fear itself.

Psalm 27: 1

" The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?




Sunday November 9, 2008

Good Morning Family! Today I want to talk about obedience. How many of you remember your parents telling you to do something that made you uncomfortable or unwilling to do? How many of you remember how it felt to ignore those instructions and the consequences of doing so? That is how God operates. God is the author and finisher of our faith. When He gives us directions or commands, He expects them to be followed completely. A very dear friend of mine told me this week that " partial disobedience is still disobedience". That is true. We can't bend God's Will or Divine Orders to us to suit our level of comfort. When God says it, that settles it.

1 Samuel 15:22

" So Samuel said: Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice and to heed than the fat of rams."





Saturday November 8, 2008

Good Morning Family! I hope that all is well as you embrace this second weekend in November. For some reason, God has me dealing with forgiveness a lot here lately. I used to be one of those individuals who said, " I will forgive but I won't forget". Personally, I think that forgetting is the most difficult part of forgiving someone. Forgetting is one of the few actions as human beings that we can't share. It is a solitary journey. All of the benefits of forgetting won't be received until we reach Heaven. I have learned that forgetting means that you have to think of God and His principles instead of the person who hurt or offended you. Trust me when I tell you with God's grace, it can happen. It is hard to remain focused on God when you are hurting but if you do, you will be amazed at how the hurt begins to ease. It is God who punishes. Don't punish yourself by existing in your pain. Live and apply the Word in your life and watch God in action. I use Him daily.

1 John 4:4

" Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world".




Friday November 7, 2008

Good Morning Family! As we face the end of another work week for some, I want to talk about God's supernatural ability to free us from stress and guide us. God's redemptive providence is always at work. Even when it SEEMS as if the most evil plots, actions and schemes are prevailing, don't fret. Family, be encouraged. God is in total control. There is nothing that happens here on Earth that brings about a surprise to heaven. There is absolutely, positively nothing that is outside of the scope of God's divine radar as He guides us daily. Family, sometimes when things appear confusing, without reason, totally unfair, even wrong, trust that it all fits into God's plan.



1 Timothy 1:17

" Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only GOD, be honor and glory forever and ever".





Thursday November 6, 2008

Greetings Family! I hope that today's inspiration finds you in the best of health and spirits. As I sat and reflected in my car on yesterday afternoon and all of the events that God has brought me to and through, I began to thank God. I don't know about you but there is absolutely no way I would have been able to make it unless God was with me as a Leader, Guider and a Director of my steps. We depend upon so many things on a daily basis. The only sure One that is unfailing is God. Our hope, faith and trust in God is what is needed in the world today. He is the only way that we can make it. God is there when you are sick, when you are lonely, when you are afraid or even when you are tired. God is aware. He is compassionate and loving. God is infinite. He has all of the power that we will ever need. All that He wants you to do is to simply call on Him and He will give you what you need. Okay so what are you waiting on? Stop what you are doing right now! Talk to Him and tell Him what is on your mind. He can and will answer your prayers.

Isaiah 35: 4

" Say to those with anxious heart, " Take courage, fear not. Behold, your God will save you".



Wednesday November 5, 2008

Good Morning Family! Do me a favor and close your eyes with me. I want you to think with me about what or something that seems impossible. Did you know that nothing is impossible with God? Is it your business? What about school? Your marital or familial relationships? How about the basic chores or routine schedules of your lives? I dare you to ask God to handle those impossibilities and leave it with Him in faith, trust that He will handle it and never doubt Him.

Jeremiah 32:17

" Ah Lord God! Behold thy hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm and there is nothing too hard for thee".




Tuesday November 4, 2008

Good Morning Family! As we face Election Day, I hope and pray that each and everyone of you who are eligible and qualified to vote are exercising that right and allowing your voice to be heard. As a child of God, we have Divinely irrevocable rights and privileges. Simply being called by His name is a reward in itself. Just to be loved by Him takes it to another level entirely. Whom He loves, He corrects and He rewards accordingly. Obedience is always greater than sacrifice.

1 Peter 2:9

" But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."





Monday November 3, 2008

Good Morning! I have re-discovered throughout this year and especially most recently that when you are suffering, only God's Outlook can replace your resentment with joy. I seen it in the hospital room this year with my mom and one dear friend who I loved dearly that passed away from cancer. I have seen it happen in my family and many others. I have seen it happen in my own life. Our whole outlook changes when we catch a glimpse of the mission of Christ in it all. Take that away and its nothing more than a nasty, horrible season in your life.

Matthew 11:28

" Come to Me, all who are weary, heavy laden and I will give you rest".






Sunday November 2, 2008

Good Morning! The dictionary defines GROWTH as: The progressive development, evolution, increase, expansion. I remember as a child being raised here in the South, one of the most constant terms that I heard from adults is " He/She is growing up". It was exciting and fascinating to watch my sisters grow from newborns to the young women that they are today. I am still amazed at them as I watch them evolve. How many of us are still wearing diapers or walking around with pacifiers in our mouths when it comes to the Word or your relationship with Christ? Many of you today are "talking" as if you are "adults" in Christ but your behavior during a season/storm displays immaturity at finest. Since its humanly impossible to physically remain a newborn all of your lives, why are you spiritually walking around with an 8 oz bottle that includes a little bit of rice cereal in it instead of getting full off of the Word and having a meaningful, satisfying relationship with Him? Our lives are surrounded by growth. We go from elementary, secondary, to collegiate levels in academia. We go from holding up our heads, crawling, toddling, walking and then running. We ride tricycles, bikes and then eventually get licenses to drive. So why just go to church, brush off your Bible and forget everything once service is over? Why have a Bible and not use or apply the TOOLS in the Holy Survival Kit located on the inside? For some of you, its way past time to be weaned off mediocrity and strive for maturity in understanding and appreciation for Our Father and His Son. Trust me when I tell you that your lack of interest or devotion could mean the difference between your life and death.

1 Corinthians 14:20

" Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes but in understanding be men".



Saturday November 1, 2008

Greetings Everyone! I hope that all is well. I am sitting here watching the news as the world begins the historic countdown to Election Day on November 4, 2008. We reside in a world where we take care of our own. Most people make it a habit to look out for number one. However, our Father's plan includes everyone. Every nation, country or race. God's message of plan of peace through faith in Christ is universal. Infinite. Without dealing with stereotypes, racism or personal hangups.

Acts 4:12

" There is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved."



Friday October 31, 2008

Greetings Family! There are many of you who believe in celebrating this day. I was raised in a Southern Baptist home. If we did not or could not find it in the Bible, it was not celebrated or discussed. Right before Halloween, Hollywood begins to bombard society with horror movies. Some of you like to be scared or look forward to the exhilaration and adrenalin rush that comes along with being afraid. We as Christians know the word fear inside and out. There are many times when we are going through a season or storm in our lives in which fear will rear its impressively, ugly head. If we look at what is seen on the surface instead of what is known in the eyes of God, you will feel afraid. You will be scared of what you think may happen. However, if you have faith and believe that God will work it out, He will and does. God is mysterious and in his unknown way He manages to bring His peace in the midst of your situation. God is the author and finisher of our faith. He is not the author of fear or confusion. So when things become cloudy, full of conflict and you begin to feel afraid, you already know where it originated. Trust in God always. He will never lose His power. He is the one to lean on when things get rough, dark, chilly, or even go bump in the night.


2 Timothy 1:7

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind".





Thursday October 30, 2008

Good Morning Family! I hope that my email finds you in the best of health and spirits. This morning I want to talk about balance. Have you ever heard someone say something but you can tell by their actions that they did not mean it? A little vague for you? Its kind of like being a Christian. If you say that you are a child of God out of your mouth, yet you are seen smoking weed, that is contradictory. Out of our hearts flow the true colors of our spirits. If you have a faulty heart, your mouth or actions will show it. Be mindful of the words that you speak because someone is watching and listening to you. If you are not edifying, don't crucify. Those same words or actions that you use for evil or destruction can and will be turned around for the other person's best interests. Its hard digging out of a foxhole with a teaspoon.



Psalm 19: 14

" Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.





Wednesday October 29, 2008

Greetings Family! Today is my mother's birthday. How many of you are blessed to say Happy Birthday to your mother or that God-sent lady who mentored you in a special way? Many of us get caught up in schedules, routines, appointments and we can barely fit in time for family. I would have been placing flowers on my mother's grave today if it wasn't for God's grace and mercy. He spared my mother's life from a very serious car accident earlier this year and I am extremely grateful. Her recovery is slow, rough and painful at times but we help her with anything and in anyway we can. I try to take advantage of every opportunity that I have to call her, visit,laugh,cry,smile,cook with her and for her or just try to the best of my ability to actively be her oldest daughter and child. It was a very humbling experience for me this year to take care of my mother as if she were my own child. For those of you who are harboring grudges, resentments, hurts, issues, gripes, constantly and consistently providing ample space for a painful past period, let it go. A casket is not the place to apologize. A gravesite is not the place to seek forgiveness or give it. Give your loved ones flowers while they can smell and see them. God is not hate, confusion, disappointments, bitterness, existing in anger or making fear and anguish a part of your human diet daily. GOD IS LOVE. God will not mistreat or harm His children. Use the gift of God's grace and mercy that He blesses us with when we face a new day to love. Aiding and abetting regrets and poison will never warm the heart, soul or spirit like LOVE. Love frees. Love never imprisons. Love never traps. Love thrives. Love never fails. Love covers a multitude of things. When you have access to LOVE, cherish it. When someone gives you their love, don't abuse or cast aside their trust in you. When someone openly reciprocates with their love, nurture it. When someone appreciates the sacredness of LOVE, feed it. Don't starve LOVE by holding on to foolishness. I can't say that life is short because I don't have the power to predict how long someone lives. I have been shown on more than one occasion recently how precious life is. I can (with flinches because I miss my loved ones a lot) joyfully say that life is meant for Loving and Living. I am glad that God continually shows and grants me constantly clarity on what 1 Corinthians 13 truly means . Family, love when and while you can. When you are hurt or offended, speak on it, forgive, pray, but most importantly don't close your heart to love. I thought that my divorce would break those shackles that were on my mind, spirit and crush those soul ties. I was still a walking storage for past negative emotions. It wasn't until this year that God sent someone special with the keys to the handcuffs that had a strong grip on my heart. It was then that I was given the freedom to love as God ordained it. Try it and you will become addicted to God's way of loving.

1 John 4: 7-9

" Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God and every one who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him."




Tuesday October 28, 2008

Good Morning Family! I was talking to my daughter on Sunday evening in reference to forgiveness. I explained to her that when someone hurts you, your job is to inform them of what they said or did that offended you, forgive them and then pray. I told her that as long as her conscience, as well as her heart is clear, her actions in the sight of God can't and won't be held against her. It is up to God to judge and chasten.

Romans 14: 12-13
" So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother's way ".




Monday October 27, 2008

Good Morning Everyone! I try to meditate and pray everyday. There is a beautiful park where I reside in which the environment is totally conducive for walking, talking and fellowshipping with God. As I walked around the park on yesterday morning, I began to reflect upon the marvelous works of our Father and all of the miraculous things that He has done for me throughout this year up until present day. There were many times ( I know that I am not alone) wherein I felt that God did not hear my prayers, did not see my tears, could not feel my heartache or pain and was totally oblivious to my misery. Yet somehow in the midst of my prayers, my supplications, my fasting, my everyday routine, God will send His Word. His Word was and will always be my confirmation to the answers of my prayers and that He hears my pleas. God will use different things or people to convey His message to you. I am always revived when that happens. My faith will receive the spiritual jumpstart that I had yearned or prayed for. Immediately, I am Divinely stimulated (depending upon the situation) for that moment, or that hour, or to make it through that day or night. Family, never lose your faith, your hope, your trust in God. You may give out of energy but never give up on God. He is incapable of failing. It is impossible for God to disappoint. It is inconceivable for me to believe that God ignores the pleas and cries of His children. It is incomprehensible for me to even allow my mind to compose the mere thought that God will not uphold and reward the upright if you are obedient.

Psalm 27:13-14
" I would have lost heart unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord, be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart. Wait I say on the Lord."



Sunday October 26, 2008

Greetings! I have been talking to my daughter and several other members of my family about faith. I am discovering throughout my most recent journey that God has some very exciting things in mind for us. For some of us, it may very well happen on tomorrow. For some of you, it may very well happen tonight, next week, next month or possibly a few years down the road. Neither of us can predict when. It may even occur today. The beautiful thing about this adventure called faith is that we can rely upon God to never lead us astray. God knows exactly where He is leading us. The only job we have is to simply obey. The reward of obedience no matter how difficult is always greater than any sacrifice you would ever make.

Isaiah 41:10

" I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."


Saturday October 25, 2008

Greetings Everyone! It seems like everyone and everything is suffering from the woes of this recession. I can't believe that some find it terribly expensive to be cordial. That is a priceless commodity. When used daily, common courtesy or cordiality can reap beautifully human dividends. Being cordial from the way I see it, starts from the heart. It begins with the deep-seated belief that the other person is important, genuinely significant, deserving of my undivided attention, my unrivaled interest, if only for a few seconds. You just never know who you are talking to, who needs that smile, that friendly glance or that warm hello. My training began at home. I used to get tired of hearing this phrase as a child: " Manners and respect will carry you farther than money or fame". As I matured, I discovered the validity behind that statement. Inspired by my home training, I am instilling manners and respect into my children. I teach them to be sensitive to the other person's feelings. When I sense that the other person is uncomfortable, I make an attempt to put him/her at ease. If the other person is timid, I try to provide some semblance of relief. If I sense that the person is bored, I will try a topic that stimulates or brings them back to life. If the other person is sad, I attempt to find things to make them cheerful. I am not always successful because I am only human. However, I always try to stop and think, " How would I feel if I heard this, If someone did this to me? Courtesy is always needed and it doesn't cost a thing.

Colossians 3:14

" Put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity".




Friday October 24, 2008

Good Evening Family! There are times when circumstances will occur that could easily crush us. Sometimes they will originate on the job, at home, or even when you are relaxing. Unexpectedly issues will come. Its then that you have a choice to make. Its all about your attitude. You can hand over your problems to God while simultaneously asking Him to take control. Or you can roll up the sleeves of your mind and try to slug it out. Joy or anxiety awaits you. Which one will you choose?

Psalm 107:43

" Who is wise? Let him consider the lovingkindness of the Lord".




Thursday October 23, 2008

Greetings Family!I used to hear as a child, "where much is given, much is required". I had no idea what that statement meant until God revealed my ministry and purpose for Him. God entrusts us all with a great deal. He already knows that we can do all things by His grace. He is trusting us to rely and depend upon Him. He knows our fears. I mean why else would He reassure us as often as He does with His purpose and Presence? I mean when I feel hurt and alone, God will let me know that He cares. When I have felt angry or even resentful, God grants me His wisdom and strength. Whenever I have felt ashamed, God blesses me with His forgiveness and comfort. When I feel anxious, God promised me that He will supply all of my needs.

Psalm 31:7

" You have seen my affliction; you have known the troubles of my soul".




Wednesday October 22, 2008

Greetings Family! I have been reminded of several lessons that I learned early in life. The lesson that sticks out the most for me is the depth of God. No one can determine, discover, define, describe or simply deny the mind of God. A professor, a teacher, a scholar, a scientist, an artist or even an accomplished musician can study their craft or gifts for years and still not understand or grasp the mind of God. We can dive into the recesses of someone else's mind. Yet it is impossible to even begin to scratch the surface of the mind of God.

Romans 11: 33-34

" How unsearchable are His judgements and unfathomable His ways. For who has known the mind of the Lord."





Tuesday October 21, 2008

Good Morning Family! I have been living on Earth for well over thirty five years. I can say that I know enough about human nature to realize that some people excuse their bitterness over the past by thinking: " Why change, what good would that do now?" "This person has hurt me and the wrong done against me is too much for me to cast it away". A person with this mindset is convinced that he or she is the exception to the command to forgive and is usually determined not to change. However, when God holds out hope, when God makes us promises, there are no exceptions.

Psalm 38:15
" I hope in You, O Lord; You will answer, O Lord my God."



Monday October 20, 2008

Greetings Family! I remember as a child growing up, I used to think that my parents had eyes in the back of their heads and built in antennaes that were tuned to the frequency in my mind because they did not miss any of my actions or thoughts. God is the same way. He doesn't miss anything. Nothing. He is not only looking out for us but He is watching us as well. He is listening to our prayers. He is totally aware of the evil that is happening to us. Please do not ever think that He has missed the evil. He sees, knows and remembers. He may be long-suffering but He doesn't compromise on His justice. God not only has His eye on the righteous, His face is against evil. Ultimately, good Will overcome evil. In the end, God wins!

1 Peter 3:12

" The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous and His ears attend to their prayer."




Sunday October 19, 2008

Good Morning Family! I hope that your weekend thus far has been somewhat productive and at the very least relaxing. One of the things that I am rediscovering is that with my relationship with Christ; there is a difference between hope and triumphant hope. I am not talking about hope that is far away or unreachable. I am not talking about the fleeting hope that comes from a dream that you don't understand. I am talking about the kind of hope where all things end right. I am recognizing daily that in the midst of the struggles, storms and tribulations of my life, I must remember constantly to fast forward my thoughts beyond what I see right now; visualize peace, conquering and finally victory. We all know that in the end, God's will is always accomplished.

Romans 12:12
" Rejoicing in hope, devoted to prayer."


Saturday October 18, 2008

Greetings Family! I hope that all is well. Just recently, I have had the uncomfortable pleasure of discovering a few more things about life. Watching the stock market take an amusement park ride in economics, we know that by taking some from their wealth, they will stumble. When you look at the health crisis, you will see that if we are unhealthy, we are somewhat handicapped. If you look at our education system, taking away our purpose we become a jar of molasses and almost dizzy with confusion. Yet when you take away someone's hope, they can be plunged into a seemingly impenetrable black void. Feeling hopeless makes you stop and think in midstream. You may even question out loud: " What the sam hill am I supposed to do next?" How long is this going to take? Is there truly a light at the end of the tunnel? Can God hear me? Its at those times when our heavenly Father says, "Don't take another step". How wonderful that is to know that God is there. Faith and Hope work together like skin does with and for your body.

Psalm 91:1

" He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty".