Anxiety: Are you a Producer, Consumer, or Warrior?

Anxiety is perhaps the number one killer of success and prosperity in a person’s life. Beyond that, it’s also a spiritual killer, robbing individuals of peace and joy. Everyone falls into one of three categories when it comes to anxiety: producer, consumer, or warrior. Understanding where you stand and how to address anxiety is key to living a victorious life.

Understanding the Sources of Anxiety

Anxiety often stems from duplicity—living in contradiction by knowingly doing what you shouldn’t or failing to practice what you preach. This hypocrisy, highlighted in Scripture’s admonition about the "plank in your own eye," creates inner turmoil. However, a subtler but equally significant source of anxiety arises from moments of sinful thoughts and behaviors that we may overlook in ourselves due to a lack of self-awareness.

Paul’s letter to the Galatians (Galatians 5) identifies specific sins that distance us from God and lead to anxiety. These include sexual immorality, jealousy, anger, and selfish ambition—behaviors that erode our spiritual peace.

When sin prevails, God’s peace is replaced by the weight of anxiety. His commands aren’t arbitrary; they are protective boundaries designed to safeguard us from anxiety’s grip and its destructive effects.

The Example of Moses and the Rock

The story of Moses striking the rock is a powerful illustration of how anxiety can manifest and affect others. The first time, Moses obeyed God’s command and struck the rock, and water flowed (Exodus 17:1-7). However, during the second incident, God instructed Moses to speak to the rock, but in his frustration, Moses struck the rock instead (Numbers 20:1-13).

This act of disobedience was rooted in a lack of trust in God’s provision. Moses, as a leader, became an anxiety producer, and his actions had repercussions—not just for himself, but for the entire community. Because of this, Moses was not allowed to enter the Promised Land.

This story shows that producing anxiety, whether through frustration, disobedience, or lack of faith, spreads like a weed to others. It can derail God’s intended blessings, both for yourself and those around you.

The Impact of Producing Anxiety

When you produce anxiety, it doesn’t just affect you—it affects those around you. Have you ever been in a situation where someone’s fear, anger, or frustration changes the atmosphere of an entire room? That’s anxiety spreading.

As believers, we are called to trust God fully, even in chaotic or uncertain situations. Anxiety often stems from our lack of trust in God’s plan. When we try to take control or fix situations in our own strength, we step out of faith and into fear.

Overcoming Anxiety Through Faith

The key to battling anxiety lies in recognizing it and addressing it spiritually. Here are steps you can take:

    1.  Command Anxiety to Leave in the Name of Jesus: Speak with authority over the situation. Jesus gave us power to bind and loose, as described in Matthew 16:19:

    •   “Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

    2.  Pray Over the Situation: Instead of letting anxiety take over, pause and pray. Ask Jesus to remove the anxiety and replace it with His peace, love, and joy.

    3.  Loose God’s Goodness Over the Situation: Pray for specific outcomes—peace, accountability, love, and productivity—and trust God to work in the hearts and minds of everyone involved.

A Personal Example:

This morning, I faced a test of my own. I was trying to get my kids out the door on time for school so that my wife could have enough time to handle her responsibilities afterward. The kids were distracted, and I became frustrated, pushing them to stop their nonsense and get moving.

In that moment, I was an anxiety producer. Instead of trusting God to work out the situation, I took matters into my own hands. I failed to have faith that everything would work out, and my actions caused unnecessary stress for everyone involved.

Later, I apologized to my wife and kids. I prayed over them, asking God for forgiveness and inviting the Holy Spirit to bring peace to their hearts and minds. I also loosed spirits of love, joy, contentment, and accountability over the situation, trusting God to teach them the lessons they needed to learn.

Becoming an Anxiety Warrior

We all stumble into anxiety or sin at times, but what we do afterward is what matters most. Recognize when you’ve allowed anxiety to take over and take steps to correct it.

    •   Pray: Ask God to forgive you and replace anxiety with His peace.

    •   Reflect: Identify the root of your anxiety. Is it a lack of faith? Sin? Self-reliance?

    •   War Against Anxiety: Use the spiritual weapons of warfare mentioned in Ephesians 6:10-18 to stand firm against the enemy. Bind the bad spirits and loose the good ones. 

Paul consistently closed his letters with words of peace, love, and blessings. Let us do the same in our lives.

When we walk in faith and trust in God, we can become warriors against anxiety: Command it away, and spread His peace and love to those around us.

In His Name,

Amen.

Author: Joel Thompson

Date: 11-21 8AM

Category: Health

Wisdom will enter your heart

Proverbs 2:10, which says, "For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul," speaks to a deep, internal transformation that occurs when one aligns themselves with God and His ways. Here's how this can be understood practically:

1. Positioning the Heart

   - Connection with God: To receive wisdom that truly impacts your heart, it's essential to have a relationship with God. This connection isn't merely intellectual; it's about allowing God's Spirit to influence and guide your thoughts, emotions, and decisions. Wisdom in the biblical sense is not just knowledge but is deeply connected with the fear of the Lord, which is a reverential awe and submission to God's will.

   - Openness and Receptivity: Your heart needs to be open to receiving wisdom. This means being teachable, humble, and willing to learn from God. It requires setting aside pride and self-reliance to depend on God's guidance and instruction.

2. Practical Steps for Heart Alignment

   - Meditation on Scripture: Regularly reading and reflecting on God’s Word positions your heart to receive wisdom. Through Scripture, God communicates His will, and by meditating on it, you align your heart with His.

   - Prayer: Communicating with God through prayer is another way to position your heart. Asking God for wisdom, as encouraged in James 1:5, shows dependence on Him and opens your heart to receive His insights.

   - Obedience and Trust: Living in obedience to God’s commands and trusting in His ways further positions your heart to receive wisdom. Wisdom often comes through living out God’s principles and seeing their truth and value in your life.

3. Transformational Impact

   - Internal Change: When wisdom enters your heart, it changes you from the inside out. It influences your desires, motivations, and the way you perceive and react to life’s situations. This wisdom is more than just knowledge; it’s an understanding that guides your entire being towards what is good, true, and beneficial according to God’s standards.

   - Soul Satisfaction: The verse also mentions that "knowledge will be pleasant to your soul," indicating that this wisdom brings a sense of fulfillment and peace. It satisfies the soul in a way that worldly wisdom or mere information cannot.

In summary, to receive the kind of wisdom Proverbs 2:10 speaks of, your heart indeed needs to be positioned in a way that is connected with God. This involves an intentional relationship with Him, marked by openness, humility, and a commitment to live according to His Word. The result is a transformative wisdom that shapes your character and life choices.

Author: Joel Thompson

Date: 11-19 8PM

Category: Health

The power of God in your life helping you to win battles

Author: Joel Thompson

Date: 11-19 11AM

Category: Marriage

Learning to Love Well: Reflections on “Tough Love” Through a Biblical Lens

This morning's family prayer time was so enriching. It felt like God was pouring new life into me, a second chance to learn and grow in ways I had missed before. My first marriage was marked by lessons I wish I had understood, but in this season, my second marriage, I feel I’m genuinely learning what it means to love well. This morning, we shared a powerful image: holding each other’s hearts gently, not squeezing or harming them because we know how much it would hurt the other person. It was a picture of vulnerability, love, and a desire to align ourselves with God’s teachings.

God has been teaching me that true love isn’t about controlling or dominating but about creating space for the other person to grow, learn, and experience the transforming power of God. The Bible tells us that we are given the secrets of God’s Kingdom—truths that even kings have longed to know, but they are revealed only to those who love God with all their heart, strength, and soul. Jesus speaks of this in Matthew 13:11, where He says, "To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given." This deep, intimate knowledge comes to those who earnestly seek and love God.

Reflecting on Ephesians 4:1-6, I was struck by Paul’s encouragement to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” It is a reminder to be peacemakers, to endure injustices we may witness with patience and understanding, and to show empathy for the pain others carry. People often act out of hurt, and even when their behavior feels unjust, we are called to listen and love rather than judge.

This brings me to the idea of “tough love.” I have realized that tough love, as it is often practiced, can be more about exerting control than expressing genuine care. Sometimes, tough love becomes a way to impose our will on others, even when we think we are right. But God calls us to a higher standard. Romans 12:17-18 says, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” This doesn’t mean we ignore sin or pretend everything is okay when it’s not; instead, we let God be the ultimate judge and trust Him to bring about change in His timing.

When we encounter behavior that we believe is wrong or unkind, our first response should not be to criticize or call it out harshly. Instead, we can pray, asking Jesus and the Holy Spirit to give us wisdom and to help the other person experience God’s love. James 1:19 encourages us: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Listening with an open heart allows us to understand the other person’s perspective, even if it seems misaligned with God’s ways.

I’ve learned that the best way to help others change is not by confronting them with anger or judgment but by embodying God’s grace and praying fervently for their transformation. When I pray, I even ask God to correct me if my perception is wrong. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares 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.”

Jesus modeled this beautifully. When He encountered sinners, He did not condemn them harshly; He invited them to experience freedom and transformation through His love. John 8:10-11 captures this when Jesus said to the woman caught in adultery, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She replied, “No one, sir.” “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

We are called to love others deeply and graciously, leaving judgment to God and allowing Him to work in their hearts. If we truly believe that God can change people, we must release our need to control or fix them ourselves. Galatians 6:1 advises, “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” Gentleness, humility, and constant prayer are our tools—not force or harsh words.

In my journey, I have learned that I never fully understand another person’s circumstances. Only God knows their heart and motives. I have chosen to let go of my desire to judge or impose my views. Instead, I commit to being a vessel of God’s love, praying for His Spirit to bring healing and freedom. May we all learn to love well, reflecting the heart of our Savior.

Author: Joel Thompson

Date: 11-17 9AM

Category: Holy Spirit Power

Bishops blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog: The SHOT PUT!

1 Timothy 1:12 KJV, “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, PUTTING me into the ministry;”

I hope this is not sacrilegious, but when I read v.12 in my devotion my first thought was of a SHOT PUTTER! The sport of Shot Put goes back to the original Olympics where it was called Stone Throwing. “I bet I can throw this rock further than you!” “O no you can’t!” And a new sport was born. When the Olympics were renewed in 1887, the Shot Put was included. The “Shot” was a spherical ball like that “shot” from a Cannon. The word “put” means to throw. Thats right, Throw the Cannon Ball! “I bet I can throw this Cannon Ball further than you!” “O no you can’t!” And here we go again…

I doubt Paul had this image in mind, but the concept is the same. Like a Cannon ball, Jesus SHOT PUT Paul into the ministry. Paul was a “heave offering” of sorts. Maybe this is why he felt “tossed about?” Like a Cannon ball, Paul landed where Jesus “PUT” him. Also, Paul stayed where Jesus “PUT” him. People measured Paul’s ministry by where and how far Jesus “PUT” him. Paul didn’t “PUT” himself into the ministry, Jesus “PUT” him there. Are you starting to get the picture? Good! And you can stop laughing now

Author: John Thomas

Date: 10-25 5AM

Category: Health

Bishops blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog: THE FRUIT OF GOD’S PLAN TO SAVE YOU!

The prophet Isaiah said EVERY THING ancient Israel was going through was ALL the fruit of God’s Plan to ultimately take away their sin and save them. Even Babylonian Captivity! Read it for yourself in Isaiah 27:9a (NKJV), “Therefore by this (God’s judgments) the iniquity of Jacob will be covered; and THIS IS ALL the fruit of taking away his sin:”

Did you see it? EVERY THING that happened to them (ALL of it!): the good and the bad; the victories and defeats; the successes and failures; starts and stops; health and sickness; life and death; was ALL the fruit of God’s plan to ultimately save them. AND HE DID!

For us today: this means EVERY THING we are going through; what we understand and don’t understand; what’s profitable and what’s not; what helps and what hurts; the happy and the sad; wins and losses; acceptance and rejection; good times and bad; EVERY THING is the FRUIT OF GOD’S PLAN to ultimately save us. AND HE DOES!

So, when times are good, glorify God and be glad. When times are bad, don’t turn to idols and make things worse; but LOOK FOR GOD IN EVERY THING and believe in His promise to save you. AND HE WILL!

1 Thessalonians 5:18 KJV, “In EVERY THING give thanks: for THIS IS the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Author: John Thomas

Date: 10-18 9AM

Category: Health

Bishops blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog: GOOD HELP IS HARD TO FIND.

The Prison and Pastoral Epistles in the Bible are commonly attributed to Paul. But did you know he had amazing help writing those Epistles from some young staff pastors who loved him and adored Jesus? Of the 14 books, Paul wrote only 4 by himself. Galatians, where he excuses the large print because of his poor vision and arthritic hands. Also 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus. (Maybe Hebrews too, but we don’t know for sure.)

For the rest of his epistles Paul got help from Tertius (Romans), Sosthenes (1 Cor), Tychicus (Ephesians), Silvanus (1 & 2 Thessalonians); and above all, Timothy, his son in the Lord, who helped him write 2 Corinthians, Philippians, Colossians (A church he had never met! Paul was introduced to them by another young minister named Epaphras.), 1 & 2 Thessalonians, and Philemon.

Yes, good help is hard to find! But oh the blessing it is when God sends quality young pastors our way to help us in our time of need. Young pastors who love us and adore Jesus! Just ask Paul. Amen.

Author: John Thomas

Date: 10-11 6AM

Category: Health

Bishops blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog: Do NOT Frustrate the Grace of God!

Galatians 2:21 KJV, “I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.”

HOW do we frustrate the grace of God? Basically in 2 ways:

#1. By NOT USING it. Paul said in Galatians 5:25 KJV, “If we LIVE in the Spirit (in other words, if that’s how we got saved. We were born again of the Spirit, not by works of the Law), LET us also WALK in the Spirit.” In other words, let’s USE His grace to help us navigate the difficulties of living in an evil age. Nothing frustrates the grace of God more than us living in the bondage of UNJUSTIFIED GUILT! …

Unless it’s #2. By ABUSING it. People who want to be saints and sinners at the same time ABUSE God’s grace by turning it into a license to be immoral; to cloak their maliciousness; an opportunity for their flesh. This is also called Self Justification. The Pharisees were famous for it, and Jesus hated to see it in His disciples. Excusing presumptuous sin is NOT what grace is for. Hebrews 12:28 KJV, “Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have GRACE, WHEREBY WE MAY SERVE GOD ACCEPTABLY with reverence and godly fear:”

There you have it. To serve God acceptably!That’s what grace is for. Amen.

Author: John Thomas

Date: 09-27 6AM

Category: Health

Effective Spiritual Warfare God Gives Us The Ability

The Bible frequently personifies emotions, virtues, and spiritual states, portraying them as though they are entities or forces, particularly in the context of spiritual warfare. Joy, peace, freedom, purity, and other positive states are often seen as gifts from God, whereas negative forces like confusion, anger, fear, and sexual immorality are described as spiritual entities that come against believers. The Bible encourages believers to "cast down" these negative forces and ask Jesus to fill them with His Spirit, bringing the fruits of the Spirit into their lives.

Positive Personifications: Joy, Peace, Purity, Freedom, and Virtue

1. Joy:

   - Psalm 65:13 – "The meadows are clothed with flocks, and the valleys are covered with grain; they shout for joy and sing."

     - Joy is personified here as something that can shout and sing, as though creation itself experiences and expresses joy.

   - Psalm 98:8 – "Let the rivers clap their hands; let the mountains sing together for joy."

     - In this poetic verse, even the rivers and mountains are described as rejoicing, reflecting the deep connection between creation and God’s glory.

2. Peace:

   - John 14:27 – Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."

     - Peace is personified as something Jesus actively gives, a powerful and living force that comes directly from Him.

   - Luke 10:5 – "When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’"

     - Peace is seen as a blessing that can be bestowed on a place or person, as though it has an active presence that can dwell in someone’s home or life.

   - Isaiah 55:12 – "You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands."

     - Peace is depicted as a guide, leading people forward, showing its role as an active, guiding force in the life of believers.

3. Purity and Sexual Appropriateness:

   - 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 – "It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable."

     - Purity and sexual appropriateness are depicted as attributes to be pursued, while sexual immorality is something to avoid. Sexual purity is framed as a godly characteristic that believers should aspire to.

   - 2 Timothy 2:22 – "Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."

     - The call to flee from sexual temptation is personified as a command to pursue purity and righteousness actively.

4. Wisdom:

   - Proverbs 8:1-4 – "Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice?"

     - Wisdom is personified as a woman calling out in the streets, seeking to guide people in the right path.

5. Freedom:

   - Romans 8:21 – "That the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God."

     - Freedom is portrayed as a state or force that can be attained and experienced when creation is finally redeemed.

Negative Personifications: Fear, Anger, Sexual Immorality, Confusion, and Opposing Forces

1. Fear:

   - 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."

     - Fear is referred to as a "spirit" that can oppose a believer’s walk, while power, love, and self-discipline are the gifts from God that counteract it.

2. Anger:

   - Genesis 4:5-7 (God’s words to Cain) – "But for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. The Lord said to Cain, 'Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.'"

     - Anger is associated with sin’s desire to overpower Cain, and God warns him to "rule over" it, suggesting it is a force or entity that must be resisted.

3. Sexual Immorality:

   - 1 Corinthians 6:18 – "Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body."

     - Sexual immorality is portrayed as a force that a believer must actively flee from. In contrast, purity is framed as a gift that is meant to be protected and honored.

   - Proverbs 5:3-5 – "For the lips of the adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to the grave."

     - Sexual temptation is personified as seductive yet dangerous, leading to destruction. Sexual purity, on the other hand, is presented as a life-giving path to honor God.

4. Confusion:

   - 1 Corinthians 14:33 – "For God is not a God of confusion but of peace."

     - Confusion here is contrasted with peace, as something that does not come from God, but is instead a force or influence that disrupts spiritual clarity.

5. Depression or Heaviness:

   - Isaiah 61:3 – "To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair."

     - Despair (or heaviness) is personified as a spirit, and God promises to replace it with joy and praise, implying spiritual forces at work.

Spiritual Warfare and Casting Down Strongholds

The Bible supports the idea of spiritual warfare, where believers cast down negative forces—such as the spirit of fear, sexual immorality, confusion, and anger—and align themselves with God’s Spirit, inviting His peace, joy, purity, and righteousness into their lives.

1. 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 – "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."

   - Strongholds, arguments, and pretensions are personified forces that believers are called to "demolish" through spiritual warfare, including temptations and desires like sexual immorality or confusion.

2. Matthew 18:18 – "Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven."

   - This speaks directly to the power of believers to bind and loose spiritual realities, exercising authority over forces that come against them, including sexual temptations, and inviting purity, peace, and joy.

Standing Firm Against Opposing Forces

- Ephesians 6:12 – "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

  - This passage clarifies that believers face spiritual opposition—rulers and forces of evil—rather than just earthly challenges. It encourages believers to stand firm with the armor of God, which includes resisting sexual immorality and choosing purity.

Conclusion:

The Bible frequently personifies virtues like joy, peace, wisdom, purity, and freedom, while also giving spiritual significance to negative forces such as fear, anger, sexual immorality, confusion, and despair. Believers are called to engage in spiritual warfare, casting down these negative entities and asking Jesus to fill them with His Spirit. The principle of "binding and loosing" reflects the authority believers have in Christ to confront these spiritual forces and invite the presence of God into their lives. Peace, purity, and sexual appropriateness are especially highlighted as gifts from Jesus, and resisting sexual immorality is seen as a key aspect of living a righteous and holy life.

Author: Joel Thompson

Date: 09-20 7AM

Category: Holy Spirit Power

Bishops Friday Blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog:  “HOW DID THEY DO IT?”

On Monday afternoon, the newest Pagers belonging to a terrorist organization in the Middle East exploded at the same time. Thousands of operatives were injured and the organization was temporarily blinded. The cry that rose up from the ranks was, HOW DID THEY DO IT? Were explosives planted in the devices before shipping? Is it new technology? HOW DID THEY DO IT!

The intelligent design behind the incident was frightening. It was intentional. It was brilliant. On Tuesday, it happened again when the newest Walkie-Talkies in the organization exploded simultaneously.  More injuries. More chaos. More confusion. More questions. What’s next? HOW DID THEY DO IT?

Did you know, during the Tribulation, God will do something very similar to the Anti-Christ’s federation and armies? Jesus prophesied it (Mt. 24; Mk. 13.; Lu.21) when He described the “stars of Heaven” (communication satellites) falling from the sky and blinding His enemies.  As part of the 6th Seal, this is recorded in Revelation 6:13 KJV, “And the stars of heaven (communication satellites) fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.” HOW DID HE DO THAT? The INTELLIGENT DESIGN behind God’s Seals of Judgment will be more convicting and convincing than the cataclysms themselves. It is intentional. It is brilliant. Then the “kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, (will hide) themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;(v.15)”… and will cry out to themselves, HOW DID HE DO THAT? This week’s incidents are a precursor. Jesus is coming! Amen.

Author: John Thomas

Date: 09-20 7AM

Category: Health

Bishops blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog: HAPPY PEOPLE!!!

Psalm 144:15 KJV, HAPPY is that PEOPLE, that is in such a case(Heb. kawkaw= a state of being based on the context either before or after the statement): yea, HAPPY is that PEOPLE, whose God is the LORD.” Since this is the last verse in the chapter, we know the context we are looking for is stated earlier before the verse.

So what did David say? In vs 1-10 David speaks specifically about the Lord’s PROTECTION. HAPPY are the people who the Lord PROTECTS! He fights for us and teaches us how to fight for ourselves. We can even EXPECT God to use natural cataclysms to rescue us. We are HAPPY PEOPLE because it’s not the extra lock on the door, or the loaded gun in the drawer, or the politician who promises to lobby congress on our behalf. We are HAPPY PEOPLE because the Lord Himself PROTECTS us.

In vs 11-14, David speaks specifically about the Lord’s PROVISION! That is: HAPPY ARE THE PEOPLE that the Lord PROTECTS AND PROVIDES for. Not just one blessing, but BOTH! God will watch over our investments so they return a profit for our children to inherit. God will control the Market, if you place your money/substance where He tells you too. Our children will be “polished” investors so that in our old age we can all SING because our “garners” are full, and our “oxen” (investments/churches) are strong with no one breaking in or carry off our hard earned labor. Why, God will even stop the people who “complain” about you. WOW!

Put all that context together and it means, “HAPPY IS THAT PEOPLE” who are PROTECTED and PROVIDED for by the LORD. “Yes, HAPPY IS THAT PEOPLE whose God is the LORD.” I hope that’s you. Amen.

Author: John Thomas

Date: 09-13 7AM

Category: Health

Bishops blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog: “I LOVE THE LORD!” 

I was shocked to discover this declaration of love is found only ONCE in the entire Bible.  Psalm 116:1, “I LOVE THE LORD, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications.” This is a Psalm of Thanksgiving for deliverance from death. It’s like David said, “Thank you Lord for saving me. And uh, by the way, I LOVE YOU!” 

This scarcity in the Bible may be indicative of the trouble we (especially men) have with saying the words, “I LOVE YOU.”? E.g.: “Thanks Margaret for making me dinner. And uh, by the way, I LOVE YOU!” (Thud! That’s the sound of Margaret hitting the floor in shock.)

A marriage counselor suggested to an old grump that he should tell his wife more often that he loved her; perhaps ONCE PER DAY.  The old grump griped, “I told her I loved her on the day we married, and I haven’t changed my mind.”

Perhaps if we started telling Jesus more often that WE LOVE HIM for saving us, it would be easier to say “I LOVE YOU!” to the others we adore for other reasons? Don’t be shy; be sincere. After Jesus, just say to your significant other, “Thanks for (insert a reason). And uh, by the way, I LOVE YOU!” (Thud…)

Author: John Thomas

Date: 08-30 7AM

Category: Health

Young Davids

Memo: “Young Davids”

Much has been said about “Young Davids” over the years. How we need young Davids, the importance of young Davids, etc… 

I was once a “young David.” I was reared in a denominational leader’s home. I was miraculously healed of kidney disease and deformity at the age of 15. I began preaching at the age of 20. I am 54 today. Things happened very quickly for me. I was thrust into denominational leadership as a PYPA President at the age of 24. I became an Assistant General Youth President over the Southeast Division at the age of 25. During this time, we saw some great things happen. In fact, youth presidents in our larger districts would call and ask how we were able to accomplish the things we accomplished in such a little district. God blessed us and gave us favor. However, I had much to learn, as do all “young Davids” and made many mistakes along the way. Some were gracious to me; others…not so much. Some have helped me, took me by the hand, taught me and trained me. Others simply attacked me over the smallest of things and offered no help, no guidance, and no instruction. I am not bitter for I have learned from both types of people. I have both learned what TO do and what NOT to do. The help, and the disappointment, I experienced has taught me to be patient with “young Davids.”

It is very important, as we passionately call for “young Davids” to emerge and come forward into the ranks of ministry, that we are lovingly patient with them as they grow and learn. We can’t immediately expect a “young David” to have the maturity of a “seasoned Samuel.” We can’t be critical and fail to be helpful. We can’t expose faults and not maximize strengths. Do we simply criticize our young leaders and expose their deficiencies, or do we take them by the hand and lovingly teach and train them to do better? I am concerned that we have lost many potentially great leaders because we have failed to mentor them as “young Davids.” 

May we all take this message to heart and mentor our “young Davids” well. 

Blessings!

Author: John Thomas

Date: 08-17 9AM

Category: Health

Bishops Friday blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog: UGLY CUPS!

Around 3am on August 1, I had a vision while I was kneeling at my prayer chair. I saw a beautiful cup, as beautiful as I’ve ever seen, beside an ugly cup, as ugly as I’ve ever seen. Then, from an unseen pitcher above, both cups were FILLED with the same pure precious sparkling water. The Holy Spirit said to me, “When someone is thirsty, EITHER CUP is equally pleasant to drink from. When you’re thirsty, it’s what is IN THE CUP that matters. And, I AM IN YOU ALL.” The Holy Spirit is the pure precious sparkling water IN the cups.

In this vision, the Holy Spirit showed me God’s perspective on His filled vessels. God doesn’t care how old the cup is, or how used-up it is, or how dented and bent it is; and neither do thirsty people. When you’re thirsty, it’s what’s IN THE CUP that matters. DOES IT HOLD WATER? Can I get a FRESH CLEAN DRINK from it? (Mt. 23:26)

I’m talking about how we are created physically, PLUS what living life does to our bodies. (I am not talking about profane, poisonous, perverted cups posing as righteous vessels. Get those carnal alterations out of your mind.) What I am saying is: being a useful vessel is not about height, weight, color, age, linage, health, injuries, accidents, diseases, or scars. What matters to both God and thirsty people is: DOES THE CUP STILL HOLD WATER? Can I get a drink of the pure precious sparkling water of the Holy Spirit? In such a case, in the eye of the beholder (whether God or man); THERE IS NO SUCH THING as an UGLY CUP

Author: John Thomas

Date: 08-09 5AM

Category: Health

Twisting our Words

Bishop’s Friday Blog: TWISTING OUR WORDS!

David complained to God that certain people were always TWISTING HIS WORDS. (Psalm 56:5 NLT, “They are always TWISTING WHAT I SAY; they spend their days plotting to harm me.”) Personally, I hate it when people TWIST MY WORDS, especially if it’s intentional. David called them “Foes“, Enemies”, and “Spies”!

I had an acquaintance who would often call me on the phone to gossip. I just listened. But then he would call others and tell them that I had said what actually he had said, putting his words in my mouth. I STOPPED taking his calls. I had another acquaintance who would talk to me, and if I shook my head while he was talking, he would then tell people that I had agreed with what he said. I STOPPED shaking my head, or even moving my eyes while he talked.  

People who purposely TWIST OUR WORDS for their own purposes are not our friends. They are Foes, Enemies, and Spies. For the sake of your own reputation and peace of mind, leave those gossips alone. (Romans 16:17)

Author: John Thomas

Date: 08-02 6AM

Category: Health

Bishops Friday blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog: GOOD INTENTIONS!

Do you remember Job’s Comforters? Did you know Job called them “miserable comforters” in Job 16:2? Did you know he called them “physicians of no value” in Job 13:4? Not only did they NOT comfort him back then; they don’t comfort me now! In fact, by the end of the book Job had to comfort them. And he did! Why? The answer is he knew their GOOD INTENTIONS!

Why did God heal them when Job prayed for them? God knew their GOOD INTENTIONS. Why did Job continue to be friends with them after his trouble was over, and for the rest of his long life? Because Job knew their GOOD INTENTIONS! He loved them for it! You’ve got to love friends like that. Amen.

Job 2:11-13 NLT, “When three of Job's FRIENDS heard of the tragedy he had suffered, they GOT TOGETHER AND TRAVELED from their homes to comfort and console him. Their names were Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite. [12] When they SAW Job from a distance, they scarcely recognized him. Wailing loudly, they tore their robes and threw dust into the air over their heads to show their GRIEF. [13] Then they sat on the ground WITH HIM for seven days and nights. No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words.”

Can you see it, my friends? Can you see their GOOD INTENTIONS? You’ve got to love good friends like that. Amen.

Author: John Thomas

Date: 07-26 6AM

Category: Family

Love God with all Your Heart, Mind and Strength

These verses that encapsulate the command to love God with all your heart, mind, and strength are found in several places in the Bible, most notably in the Gospels and the Old Testament. Here are the key verses:

Deuteronomy 6:5 (Old Testament)

NIV: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength."

ESV: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might."

KJV: "And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might."

Matthew 22:37-38 (New Testament)

NIV: "Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment."

ESV: "And he said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment.'"

KJV: "Jesus said unto him, 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment.'"

Mark 12:30 (New Testament)

NIV: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength."

ESV: "And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength."

KJV: "And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment."

Luke 10:27 (New Testament)

NIV: "He answered, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"

ESV: "And he answered, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.'"

KJV: "And he answering said, 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.'"

These passages highlight the importance of loving God with every part of one's being, encompassing heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Author: Joel Thompson

Date: 07-13 7AM

Category: Health

Bishops Friday Blog

Bishop’s Friday Blog: ELIHU THE BLOW-HARD!

In the book of Job, God gave Elihu the Blow-Hard 5 whole chapters to bloviate. He just goes on and on… Finally, God stopped him in his tracks by speaking out of a whirlwind and asking, “Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?” (Job 38:2) Elihu was dumb-struck. Me too! I was young once.  Lonnie the Blow-Hard.

Elihu was the 4th of Job’s Comforters, and by far the YOUNGEST. He thought himself very wise and intelligent when in fact he was rather foolish and naive.  But God showed AMAZING PATIENCE with him as he rattled on. In fact, so did Job and his doctor friends. Both God and godly people can be very patient and long-suffering with young blow-hards. How gracious that is.

Later, when God confronted Job, Job was OLD ENOUGH and WISE ENOUGH to humbly respond, "… What shall I answer You? I lay my hand over my mouth. …I will not answer… I will proceed no further." Smart man! It comforts me today to know that God is patient and long-suffering with us all; young and old; foolish and wise; from blow-hards to the barely-breathing. I hope Elihu the Blow-Hard was paying attention? Amen.

Author: John Thomas

Date: 07-12 7AM

Category: Ministry

The Kingdom Of God

Hello Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I want to share with you how to break free from the bondage of sin. In this article, we will explore what "sin" means and how it hinders the "Kingdom of God" from impacting our lives here on earth. We'll also delve into the nature of the "Kingdom of God" as a real and temporal presence that brings divine enlightenment, freedom, wisdom, and peace. Additionally, we'll distinguish between "Heaven," a place of eternal communion with God, and the "Kingdom of God."

First, what is "sin"? The Bible tells us that anything not done in faith is sin (Romans 14:23). This definition casts a broad net but holds true. Another way to define sin is by identifying what it is not—it is not the fruits of the Spirit. The fruits of the Spirit are:

• love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

Acts of sin include anger, rage, anxiety, unbridled emotions, yelling, accusations, and judgment. More apparent sins might be physical harm, lying, sexual immorality (including adultery, LGBTQ+ practices, and pornography), drunkenness, misleading children into sin, theft, child molestation, rape, and murder.

Interestingly, God does not differentiate between the severities of sin, placing all in the same category. Galatians 5:19-21 clearly outlines this:

The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Why does God care if we sin? He wants us to avoid partnering with evil and committing acts of sin, which lead to spiritual and eventually physical death. God desires us to be free from this pain and death sentence, even the mindset that leads to sin. Consider moments of fear, anxiety, or depression—sinful states that hinder prayer and the presence of the "Kingdom of God." Galatians 5 reminds us that those who engage in such acts will not inherit the kingdom of God.

What does this mean? It could suggest exclusion from Heaven, but I believe it speaks to missing out on God's immediate presence. The "Kingdom of God" offers a supernatural spiritual presence, providing peace, supernatural power and protection as if Jesus were sitting beside you.

The "Kingdom of God" is depicted throughout the Bible as a spiritual realm or aura. When it is near, we experience light, peace, joy, happiness, creativity, and divine enlightenment. As Christians, we should continuously grow, learn, and refine ourselves, submitting our minds to Jesus and aligning our thoughts with God's will.

Sanctification helps believers become self-aware, enabling us to rebuke, confess, and repent from sin. This process allows us to inherit the "Kingdom of God." We must seek God's will, not our own, as exemplified in Luke 9:54-55 and Matthew 16:23, where Jesus rebuked His disciples for thoughts misaligned with God's.

The temporal and powerful nature of the "Kingdom of God" is evident in several biblical references:

The Lord's Prayer says, "your kingdom come...on earth, as it is in Heaven" (Matthew 6:10), suggesting the kingdom's presence on earth.

John the Baptist proclaimed, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near" (Matthew 3:2), indicating Jesus' spiritual and physical presence.

Jesus preached, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near" (Matthew 4:17), emphasizing the kingdom's current nearness.

Colossians 1:13 states, "For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves," indicating freedom from sin here and now.

Matthew 13:11 and Luke 8:10 reveal that the "Kingdom of God" provides divine insight and spiritual truth.

Romans 14:17 declares, "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit," highlighting the kingdom's present spiritual nature.

Matthew 16:19 speaks of the keys to the kingdom, indicating divine understanding applied both on earth and in Heaven.

Matthew 6:25-33 urges us not to be anxious but to seek the "Kingdom of God" for enlightenment and peace.

If we align our thoughts with God, the "Kingdom of God" can be a constant spiritual presence, bringing peace amidst the struggles of the flesh (Ephesians 6:12).

To experience the "Kingdom of God," we must free ourselves from sin. Here are steps to do so:

1. Acknowledge and confess your sins to Jesus during prayer (1 John 1:9-10, James 5:13-16).

2. Repent, turning away from sin in both thought and action.

3. Put sin to death, possibly through fasting and daily commitment (Galatians 5:24).

4. Take every sinful thought captive and pray for Jesus' intervention (2 Corinthians 10:5).

5. Call on Jesus' name for rescue in moments of sin (Romans 10:13).

6. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7).

7. Remove yourself from sinful situations, engaging in other activities like physical exercise.

8. Meditate on God's word daily, allowing divine insight and solutions (Psalm 1:2).

9. Declare daily that you are free from specific sins, integrating this into your routine.

10. Seek inner healing for deep-rooted sinful thoughts or behaviors, using techniques like Sozo (Matthew 7:9-10).

11. Ensure you never return to sinful ways once you are free, remembering the biblical warnings about returning to sin (Matthew 12:43-45, 2 Peter 2:19-20, Galatians 5).

With God's truth, self-awareness, humility, discipline, hard work, and dedication to Jesus, we can overcome sin. 1 John 1:9-10 assures us:

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.

Remember, everyone sins—just do something about it! (Romans 3:23)

For further understanding, please read 1 John, Galatians 5, and Romans 8.

God bless you, and may the peace of the "Kingdom of God" be with you.

P.S. There are 473 references to "Kingdom" in the Bible. While not all pertain to the above concept, it's worth researching to understand the truth. See all 473 references here: https://bible.knowing-jesus.com/words/Kingdom

Author: Joel Thompson

Date: 07-04 1PM

Category: Holy Spirit Power

All or Nothing by Jesus

Jesus Doesn't Want Any Half-Way Committed Followers, It's All or Nothing

Introduction

In the teachings of Jesus Christ, one of the most profound and challenging messages is His call for total commitment. Jesus does not desire half-hearted followers; He calls for full devotion and unwavering faith. This article explores the significance of total commitment in following Jesus and what it means to be fully devoted to Him.

The Call for Total Commitment

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus makes it clear that following Him requires complete dedication. In the book of Luke, He says,

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.” - Luke 9:23-24

This call to take up one's cross is a call to sacrifice and total surrender. Jesus is asking for more than just a casual belief; He is asking for a life transformed by faith and obedience.

The Cost of Discipleship

Jesus never promised that following Him would be easy. In fact, He often spoke about the cost of discipleship. In Luke 14:27-28, He says,

“And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”

Counting the cost means understanding that following Jesus may require giving up things that are precious to us. It means prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else.

Examples of Total Commitment

The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who demonstrated total commitment to God. The apostles left their livelihoods to follow Jesus. In the Old Testament, figures like Abraham and Moses showed unwavering faith and obedience to God's call.

One of the most striking examples is the story of the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17-22. When Jesus told him to sell all he had and follow Him, the young man went away sad because he was very wealthy. This story illustrates the difficulty of total commitment when we hold tightly to worldly possessions.

Living a Fully Committed Life

Living a life fully committed to Jesus means allowing Him to be the center of our lives. It involves daily decisions to follow His teachings and to let His love and grace guide our actions. It means trusting Him in every aspect of our lives and being willing to let go of anything that hinders our relationship with Him.

Conclusion

Jesus' call to total commitment is a challenging one, but it is also a path to true freedom and fulfillment. As we strive to follow Him completely, we discover the depth of His love and the joy that comes from living a life dedicated to His purposes. Let us take up our crosses and follow Him with all our hearts, knowing that in losing our lives for His sake, we truly find them.

Author: Joel Thompson

Date: 05-29 8AM

Category: Health

Healthy Mind

Author: Joel Thompson

Date: 05-29 7AM

Category: Health