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March 10, 2012: Homeownership (Mortgages) – Rev. Kathy J. Briggs

2 Kings 8:6 “The king asked the woman about it, and she told him.  Then he assigned an official to her case and said to him, Give back everything that belonged to her, including all the income from her land from the day she left the country until now.”

As a former Housing and Community Development professional, I know the significance of owning a home for a family, and the affect homeownership has on the stability of a community. During my tenure, I have been involved in numerous housing and community development projects across the country.  Homeownership for most in this country is the American Dream.  It is a form of security; it is an asset, an investment and a legacy.  However, for many, tough economic times have turned the dream into a nightmare, the asset into a liability, and investment into expenditure.  The number of bank owned properties have reached over 800,000 nationally.  Banks have foreclosed on homes; mortgages are under water; housing prices have fallen; people can no longer afford the mortgage due to unemployment; and many are participating in what is called strategic default, that is, they are walking away from bad bank loans.

No matter the reason, losing one’s house/home is devastating, painful, and stressful; no one wants to be homeless, no one wants his or her family or their belongings on the street.  President Obama understands the value of owning a house, and the effect of the current housing crisis.  Onwww.hud.org there is information to help those experiencing difficulty paying the mortgage, are in foreclosure or interested in becoming a homeowner.  Economist gage the recovery of the economy on the number of home sales, demand for new home construction, and the unemployment rate. However, Christians gage their personal economic recovery by what the Word of God says.  2 Kings 8:1-6, (paraphrasing), God had issued a famine and Elisha told the mother of the boy he had brought back to life, to leave her home for seven years.  The mother returned after seven years, and went to the king asking him to give her house and land back.  Unbeknownst to her the prophet Elisha was talking to the king about her and her son.  After she concurred that what the prophet had told the king was true, “the king assigned an official to her case, and told him to give back everything that belonged to her, including all the income from her land from the day she left until the present.”  This, my brothers and sisters is exactly what God is going to do for you!

Father God, I pray for every person who is experiencing a financial famine, who has or is about to lose their house.  I pray Lord that you will intervene and speak on their behalf.  That you will lead them to or bring someone to them that will help them during this time of crisis.  Please take away any feelings of embarrassment, pride, failure or defeat.  Do not let the enemy take their thoughts hostage.  Keep the family together.  I pray that every resource they need to buy a house, keep their house, get another house and pay the mortgage will be provided.  I pray for favor where there is a lack of funds.  I pray that after the famine is over they will be stronger, better and not bitter; and that they will be given back everything that belonged to them, with interest!  Press down, shaken together and running over.  It is so In Jesus name, Amen.

 March 9: Entrepreneurship — Min Donna D. Brown

Isaiah 43:19 Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?  I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

In researching definitions of the word entrepreneurship, a particular phrase caught my attention: agents of change.  I thought this phrase gave the most perfect definition.  In addition to being creative, risk takers and innovative (all of which are characteristics of entrepreneurship), agents of change was the most defining.  To me, it was consistent with what we, in the body of Christ, are called to be; agents of change.  In this period of recession, it should not be a time of discouragement but motivation for believers.  This is the time to use the gifts and talents that God has blessed us with and create opportunities, not only for ourselves, but others as well. .  Through entrepreneurship we are able to model to the world His character in creating opportunities for others using equitable, fair, non-discriminating and non-disparaging business practices.  As agents of change/entrepreneurs we can change the unemployment rate, decrease the poverty rate, increase the economy,  restore hope and motivate others to take a risk in pursuit of their passion; be innovators of industry.  God declares, “behold I will do a new thing.”  We are the agents of God’s innovation.

In this season, you are not to be distressed by present conditions, but press toward that which God has placed in you; pursue your passion.  Remember God’s promises as He says in Jeremiah 29:11 that He has plans to prosper you and not to harm you.  Imagine those plans coming to fruition:  the idea being implemented, the vision being realized, your purpose being fulfilled, the will of God working in your life.  The economy should have no impact on the body of Christ, but the word of God should be your blessed assurance of your prosperity in taking that leap of faith and being bold in knowing that with God you cannot fail.   For He has declared, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9.  Be that agent of change in your own life, for your family, in your community and through your business.  Embrace the spirit of entrepreneurship; be an agent of change for the Kingdom of God!

Father we submit ourselves unto you as agents of change for your kingdom.  We thank you God for planting the seeds within us as creators and innovators of industry.  We thank you Heavenly Father for the divine vision that you have entrusted us with as we boldly go forth in faith, knowing  that we shall prosper and we cannot fail; for you are with us.  We go forth trusting that if you gave us the vision, Father, that it shall come to pass.  We thank you in advance for providing the resources, the people and the place to bring your plans to fruition.  We praise you Lord, for you have not given us the spirit of fear, but for giving us your blessed assurance.  Thank you Lord for opening up windows of opportunity and guiding us through the path toward our destiny.  Let us remain integrous in our efforts that our works will bring glory to you and blessings to your kingdom.  In Jesus blessed name we pray.  Amen.

March 8: HIV/AIDS – Min. Mwuese L. Igyor

As the body of Christ we must look at HIV and AIDS for what it really is; an attack on our communities. In particular it attacks the family. Who better to petition than Christ, the head of the family of believers, to breathe life into this world wide epidemic? As a child I remember times when I would go off to play and my father mentioned I should take my sister along. Then l realized that she deserved to be included as well. The Church cannot forget to include those who are affected by HIV and AIDS. Some allow stigma to create fear, while children are without parents, mothers are without children. The church must not be silent. Pray for each other so that you may be healed. (James 5:16) Look to Jesus as our exemplar in Matthew 9:35 Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. Remember Jesus is a healer.
In the name of Jesus we pray for a cure, we pray for the strengthening of those who are diagnosed, open doors for new research, and funding. We pray that God continues to touch the minds of those who are doing this good work in the physical realm as we count on Him to do it in the spiritual. Give us discernment in what to teach our children, discuss with our neighbors, and love as we do not ostracize or criticize, but evangelize to those who have HIV or AIDS. It is in Jesus name that we pray and are thankful Amen.
Today read:
1 Peter 4:8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude.
James 5:16 Pray for each other so that you may be healed.

March 7: Election – Minister Jeannette’ Sykes-Atkins

Election is defined as the right or ability to make a choice. Also, the theological definition is the selection by God of certain people for salvation and eternal life.
Point #1. I believe it is essential for us as Christians to know God’s will for us in government affairs such as elections. As Christians we are to speak the truth and present the truth to the world and bring out the truth, exposing any misconceptions. We are commanded by God to speak truth and to do truth to lead souls to Him. (Matt. 28: 18-20) “And Jesus came and spoke to them saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. “Go therefore” and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. “teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Point #2. As Christians we should know and understand that the ultimate authority in and over our lives is God. He has the first and last say in our lives. Therefore; any involvement in politics, elections or voting should be through guidance and teaching from the Word of God. We ought to seek, search, and study the Word to know what our responsibility is concerning a worldly duty such as electing anyone to a position that would give a candidate power in the arena of decision making. (Romans 13:1) “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.
Prayer:
Lord You who created heaven and earth and made man in Your image; You who have given us free “Will” and the mind to do Your “Will” we seek Your direction and guidance during this important decision making time.
Help us to focus!
Help us to have faith!
Help us to be thankful for a country where freedom is a part of the election process.
We thank you and we give you honor and glory in Jesus Name. Amen!

March 6: Min. Tom Izzard – Opportunity

Matthew 7: 7-8 7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
Prayer unleashes God’s power so that he is able to work in our behalf. Prayer opens the channels of God’s blessing. Prayer is how God accomplishes the things that he wants to see happen in our lives. Prayer opens new doors of opportunity for God to move. In fact you can view prayer like a door. You are on one side of a closed door and on the other side is God. But standing with God is all this incredible and unimaginable power. When you pray, it is you turning that doorknob and swinging that door wide open. For it is at that moment when all that power can step through that doorway and work for God’s good, and for your good.
God doesn’t always answer our prayers the way we would like. He provides the opportunity to develop characteristics He desires in us, along with the end result we desire.
Asking, seeking and knocking include personal action. When we pray, we need to be alert and watching for opportunity to participate in receiving our prayer request. In the middle of a raging flood, mentally or physically, we pray for rescue. But when the boat or airlift opportunity arrives, we must take action to get on board to be saved.
We pray for more love, and He gives us the opportunity to express and demonstrate love to Him and to others. And as we do, additional character is developed in us and we become more loving. We pray for joy and often given the opportunity to provide a joyful environment for others. We pray for peace and often given the opportunity to be a peacemaker. We pray for self-control, and given the opportunity to exercise control over our personal behavior. We pray for strength and God provides the opportunity to be strong, to stand strong and to make a difference.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Fill our lives with opportunities to do your will and help us not to miss the opportunities of helping others that we may be ready to share with the poor; to sympathize with the sad; to encourage the depressed; to help those who’ve made mistakes to get back on track again; and lend a hand to those who are finding things difficult. God help us to grasp every opportunity you send, and to use every gift you have given us, that we make our lives what you meant them to be In Jesus Name Amen!

Mar. 5: Anointing – Min. Lutisha Williams

1 John 2:27 – As for you, the anointing you receive from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you.  But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit – just as it has taught you, remain in you.

The anointing is of divine origin for us as Christians to accomplish God’s will and purpose.  It’s two-fold in the sense that it works in us and through us.  As it’s working in us, it’s teaching us everything we need to know.  Working through us, it gives us the supernatural ability to preach the good news of Jesus Christ to those who have an ear to hear and a heart to receive; to set the captives (prisoners) free from the bondage of addictions (drugs, alcohol, sex, nicotine, caffeine, TV, shopping, social media, etc.), broken relationships (husband/wife, parent/child, siblings, friendships, ungodly soul ties) and financial difficulties (more expenses than income to pay) to name a few.  The anointing qualifies us to give sight to those who are spiritually blind – those who are in a dark, damp and twisted place in life, who have no idea how to maneuver out of it and it qualifies us to release the oppressed from a state of poverty in their minds and in their spirits.   When we operate in the supernatural of the anointing – natural things seemingly won’t phase us because it’s the anointing that breaks the yokes of bondage.

In our own strength we can never do the work of the Lord, except through and by the power of the Holy Spirit that we receive the anointing and are able to function in it.  Jesus began his ministry after being anointed at his baptism.  When it is that the anointing comes, strongholds are torn down so authentic worship can take place where you take off that mask and worship God right where you are, because of who he is.  God himself does the anointing and we are the recipients of His anointing to be set apart for His service.  If in fact you have been anointed by God, your anointing is authentic because God will anoint those whom he appoints for a specific work/assignment because the anointing comes to heal and to help.

Father in the mighty name of Jesus I ask that your anointing will flow down from your throne of grace through the hearts and minds of those of us who are open and receptive to receive from you this day.  Lord, let your anointing flow so that we may be healed, delivered and set free.  Bind up everything that hinders and distracts us from doing what you have anointed and appointed us do in the earth realm; loose our minds from the thoughts that distract us from what you’re calling us to do.  Father, in the name of Jesus, send your anointing to heal our mental and emotional stress, and break down our stubborn wills so we can say yes to you and you alone.   Amen!

Mar 3: Integrity —Min Tonya Kennedy

Is there anyone left that we can trust? It seems that the closer we get to Christ’s return, people continue to let us down over and over again. It looks as if there is often a discrepancy in what they claim to believe in and how they actually live. Whether it’s on our jobs or in our homes or yes, even in church we sometimes suffer from a lack of consistency with what is on the inside of us versus what shows on the outside. Our beliefs do not reflect and our behaviors. Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Our Savior didn’t allow His integrity to be compromised just for the sake of fitting in or being popular, He always treated even His enemies with love.

As believers we have to be careful how we talk about one another and how we inadvertently slight our brothers and sisters. Proverbs 10:9 “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.” We compromise our integrity with God when we claim to love Him on the inside but fail to show love on the outside. For example; our integrity is questioned through the giving of our tithes and offerings. Believers steal from God on a regular basis knowing what is rightfully His.  Also the inconsistency in our worship, how can one enter into His presence and not acknowledge Him? We serve a Savior that exemplified integrity; He didn’t just exhibit integrity in the Temple but, everywhere He went He was known as a person of character. What About You?

Our Lord and Savior, teach us how to live with a level of integrity; allow us to be transformed so that our lives will model after yours. Father we need you to teach us how to avoid people, places and things that will cause our integrity to be compromised. Lord allow our attitudes and our behaviors to improve so that we can be trusted with the purpose that you have for our lives. We’re waiting patiently for a New Beginning. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Mar 2: Entertainment Industry (Movies, Music, TV) – Min. Michelle Terry

Philippians 4:8 declares “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

In today’s society, the entertainment industry has become a viable instrument that we as Christians can utilize to reach, enhance, and build the kingdom of God.  I am presently reminded of producer and movie mogul Tyler Perry; who uses his gifts, and talents in the entertainment arena, as a tool to reach and touch the hearts of people across the globe. These tools (i.e. movies, plays, music, television) can and will continue to be a tremendous catalyst, along with our anointing to preach the word in an effort to reach the masses and advance the Kingdom of God.

We are what we think; and what we think is shaped by what we see, and what we hear.  Daily we are surrounded by words, images, sounds, and information all fighting to enter our mind.  We must be wise enough to go through the screening process and recognize that those things that are not positive reinforcements shouldn’t make the cut.   Let’s take in information that provokes us to think positively, and challenges us to do more, have more and become more.  We shall embrace images that promotes healing, hope and help; in doing so, we will build meaningful interactions with our families, friends, churches, communities, government, cities, states, countries, continents, nations and beyond.

Father, we ask that you honor those in the entertainment industry who stand for righteousness.  Infuse their decisions and creativity with a strong moral sense.  May their influences be used to inspire, uplift and redeem those that are lost.  Create through them a mighty wave of global reconciliation and peace that will draw all men to you. Bless those who recognize the need for family-friendly entertainment. Prepare an atmosphere that is conducive for the world to receive Kingdom awareness.  Increase the success of godly music, films, and initiatives that will shield our youth from the immorality that is so pervasive throughout our culture.  Thank you for opening avenues that will allow us to advance your Kingdom.  In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Feb 29: Evangelism — Min. Deborah Franklin

Matthew 9:37-38 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

We have all been commissioned to be disciples of Jesus Christ. We must all be ready to

go out and be field representatives. We cannot be ashamed of the word of our Lord

and Savior.  Therefor we have to stand boldly and profess our beliefs. Just like a

Basketball coach prepares the team to play the game with a play boo so has God has

prepared us with His play book His word. Now God knows the every shot won’t be three

point play and sometimes there will be missed and foul shots, but we have to stay on

the court. Just like a basketball player can’t score all the points there has to be an

assist. We are all on Gods team and have to work together to increase our team.

Eventually, if you keep shooting you’re going to score one for the team of God, so don’t

be discouraged. So go out get on the and start shooting the word of God and see how

many points or rather how many souls you can lead to Christ today.

Dear Lord today we are coming to asking you for boldness to go out and spread Your word. We know the harvest is plentiful and want to be a strong worker for you. We declare today we will enter your court with gladness and we will shoot and score a soul for you today.

Feb 28: Environment/Ecology — Min. Nicole Pyles

The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. Psalm 19:1-4

In the midst of our hurried lifestyles have you happened to glance at the blueness of the sky on your morning commute, or happened to catch the sunset leaving the grocery store where the sun looked so big, so bright and so close, or been amazed looking out your kitchen window at how the clouds take shape or the birds take flight? Realize…even in those moments you were in the presence of God. Simply put, the earth reflects God’s love for creation. We are and the earth is God’s creation. Every detail in our environment and every detail of humankind are created by design with great intentionality- from the methodic rhythm of rain drops to the soothing of a gentle breeze to the illumination of the midnight moon reminding us of your unfailing and everlasting love for us.

Today, may everything you made, oh God, point us back to you. May we look, may we listen and may we open our hearts to experience a moment with you through your creation. We know your creation is a reflection of who you are and shows your glory in the world around us. Let us not forget our responsibility to better stewards of the earth. And may we learn to recognize the wonders of, the wonders in and the wonders through your creation.

Feb 27: Economy God’s Got It. Min. Nakia Hudgins

Psalm 37:25 (NIV) I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.

Economy: The management of the resources of a community (Kingdom), country, etc. , especially with view to its productivity.

Recession: A general slowdown in economic activity.

The United States of America (USA) entered a recession at the end of 2007 and 2008 saw many other nations follow suit.  The cost of living is at an all time high. Many are overwhelmed by the pressure to maintain basic living essentials and financial obligations.   As a people with dual citizenship (citizens of any country and moreover citizens of the Kingdom of God) we must look to the word of God to obtain Truth.  As we look to the definitions of Economy & Recession we can find solace & peace in knowing that our Heavenly Father the Master of managing resources and there is NO Recession, nor will there ever be in the Kingdom of Heaven.  I’m reminded of a song penned by Rev. Milton Brunson entitled God’s Got It.

I once was young and now I’m old,
but I’ve never seen the righteous forsaken
nor His seed begging for bread.

You just trust and believe
and when you ask you shall receive
(because the earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof)
(my friend right now) it’s yours.

You just trust and believe
and when you ask you shall receive
whatever you want, God’s got it,
whatever you need, He will supply
whatever you want, God’s got it.
(my friend right now) it’s yours.

Heavenly Father, we glorify Your Name.  We give you praise through Christ Jesus because in Him is NO lack. He is the All Sufficient God, The Rock of Ages and our hope is build on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; as the Seeds of Righteousness we declare that we are not forsaken and will never beg.   We confess total victor of the current economic status of this world by virtue of the economic status of the Kingdom of Heaven. In the Mighty Name of Jesus Amen!!!!!

Feb 26: Society  Min. Phyllis L. Linnes

Have you ever listened to the radio or watched something on TV and thought to yourself, “What is the world coming to?”.  If so, you’re not alone.  Day by day, society is pulling further away from the principles of God.  Popular music is laced with lyrics that demean women and minorities.  Reality shows perpetuate violence, intolerance and the stereotypical variations of single mothers, athletes and B-list celebrities. Our educational institutions are leaving children behind, by the thousands and some elected officials have been bullied into voting for legislature that opposes the ideals and morals of the people who elected them. What is the world coming to?

1 Timothy 2:1-4 encourages the believers of God to petition, pray, intercede and be thankful for all people, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

The times may have changed, but the truth and Word of God remains. On this 5th day of Lent, let us pray with uplifted voices: Father, forgive us for creating a self-absorbed society. Bring healing to our land as we turn from our wicked ways. Release your Holy Spirit to remove spiritual blindness, and equip your people to stand steadfast for righteousness. Make us instruments of your love and grace and instill in us a greater desire to petition, pray, intercede and be thankful for all people, kings and all those in authority. Empower us to pursue holiness and return to you, for your Word says blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He chose for His inheritance (Psalm 33:12).

Feb 25: Strength Min. Talesha Jones

Psalm 18:32 NIV “It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect”

1. All strength comes from God. Once we surrender to God we than allow ourselves to see the full capacity of Gods strength within us.

2.  Praying for strength can help you to manage and stand strong in any situation where you may feel as if you have fallen from grace and that you are not able to sustain.

Prayer: Lord God we come to ask you on today for strength, strength to allow us to stand up in difficult situations, strength for us to be able to say no to whatever is no in your will and to step out on faith to say yes to what is in your will. Lord, we ask today that you not only give us strength for ourselves, but Lord give us strength to be able to hold someone else up in their time of weakness. We pray and ask these things in Jesus name, AMEN!

Feb 24: Success – Min.Tessa R. Couser

Joshua 1:8

What does success mean to you?  Is it obtaining the job/career of your dreams?  Is it purchasing the home or car that you always desired?  Is it obtaining the degree of higher education?  Is it being married to your “soul-mate”?  Or…Is it being financially secured?

Whatever your definition of success is…it is important to know what your ordained purpose is. Often, most measure their level of success based on tangible, material assets…comparing their accomplishments to others who are not, and were not assigned to their individual God ordained purpose.  It has been my observation that, the way people measures success is not necessarily the same way God rewards success.  I have often heard people quote that, “your net worth is your net-work.”  This might be true for those who believe that their success is based on their own individual ability and power…but for those who know and trusts, that “ALL things,” whether good, bad or ugly, work TOGETHER for their success because they know that, their success is not based on “man’s” standards, but their success is BUILT on God’s WORD.  Sidebar: the bible declares that, “God is not a man that He should lie, nor is He the son of man that He should repent…when He speaks it shall come to pass.”

My friend, please know that REAL success is not based on how much money, cars, degrees, houses, designer brands you may have…Authentic Success is built upon the foundation of knowing that you are living in your God ordained purpose, and functioning in Divine order.  The Bible assures us that when we are careful to “whole heartily” obey God’s Word and plan for our lives…SUCCESS is inevitable!

Feb 23: Sanctification — Min. Christopher Brown

I grew up in a large conservative, holiness church in Washington, D.C. One of the consistent doctrines/teachings the pastor and other ministers would impart was on sanctification. Their teachings seemed to heavily focus on outward adornment as opposed to internal peace with God. We were taught that to sanctify ourselves we had to dress a certain way, look like a saint and watch the company we kept. For example, the women were not allowed to wear any make-up or pants. The women also had to have their heads covered at all times while in church with what we called “prayer caps” that looked somewhat like my grandmothers old white table saucers. Oh, and if they didn’t have a “prayer cap”, the mothers of the church would put a napkin or a piece of tissue on their head (gotta love their creativity). The men had to wear a shirt and tie in order to gain access to the sanctuary. I have good news; sanctification has nothing to do with the way we dress or look; but everything to do with the way you live! God cares more about what you are going through and the life you live than about what clothes you wear or the car you drive.

Sanctification is developing a genuine relationship with the Triune God and preparing for your God-given purpose. It is the process of being cleansed, consecrated, blessed and anointed by God for you to create impact in the Earth. (Read Leviticus 21:6, 8 & 10)

On this 2nd day of Lent, let us pray with one voice and with one spirit David’s prayer in Psalm 51:10, “Create in me a clean heart oh God, and renew a right spirit within me.”