God Has Not Given Me The Spirit of Shade

So, we all know the common term, "shade" or phrases such as, "shade, but no shade". If you are unaware of what I am talking about, the term is just a cover up for negatively talking about someone.

 I am going to be 100% honest I was a part of the shade "movement" for quite some time. However, after recently being convicted by the Holy Spirit in my personal devotional time. I realized that as a Christian woman it is not spiritually becoming of me to act in such a manner. You see, God urges us consistently throughout the Bible to walk in love with EVERYONE. There should be no exceptions in your love walk. To be honest, when you put your mouth on others you not only miss out on your blessings, but the opportunity to be a blessing to someone else because you were so fixated on something as petty as what someone else was wearing.

James 4:11-12 States: "Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge.  There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?"

In all actuality, saved or unsaved, we've all done this. Does that make talking about others in a negative way justifiable? Absolutely not. My intentions are not to condemn, but to challenge you to CONSTANTLY check your heart. Why check your heart? The Bible tells us that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34).

Get your hearts right then there will be no need for shade, but a need for love. The kind of love that God instructs us to walk in. 

Charity P.

STOP JUDGING: Recognizing The Critical Spirit

This day in age it has become a norm to judge others. We have a plethora of television shows that are focused around this very subject. However, as a believer in Christ that is a practice that we should NOT participate in. Having a critical spirit can really get in the way of your own personal walk with Christ and also hinder the walk of other believers. It's sad that the church as a whole has a reputation of being judgmental because we are so engulfed in legalism that we miss the mark spiritually to reach others effectively. 

The common denominator in a person who is judgmental or someone who possesses the critical spirit, is a lack of fulfillment. They feel that no one is ever good enough or meet their standards because in all actuality, they are unhappy and unfulfilled with themselves. In search of wanting to feel good about themselves, they put others down and scrutinize every detail about another persons flaws so much so that they lose focus of their own imperfections. 

Matthew 7:1 states, "Judge not, that you be not judged" (ESV). This particular verse was Jesus' words to us. He instructed us not to judge. There is no gray area with this. We must rid ourselves of this habit and seek deliverance from this critical spirit that we allow to consume us. 

Matthew 7:2 states, " For with the judgement you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you" (ESV). As a result of our judgement on others, we are only making things harder on ourselves when the day of Judgement takes place. 

Romans 14:4 says, " Who are you to pass judgement on the servant of another? it is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand" (ESV).  I love that it starts off saying "Who are you" as in what authority do you "think" that you have in order to point fingers at someone else. 

Always do a self-check about your own flaws and weaknesses. If you'd put the energy that you put towards judging others and use it towards yourself you might find God using you to reach that person that you are really recognizing spiritual need in. 

Remember, always be ready to be used by God. Talk less and pray more. 

Charity R. 

Soon-To-Be Air Force Wife Life Update

So, yesterday night was an exciting night for David and I. We finally found out where we will be spending the first few years of our married life! We are heading to Vandenberg AFB in Lompoc, California. I could not be any happier. This was our first choice and we are elated to start this new journey as husband and wife. I cannot wait to move this summer.

Lies And Deception

This topic of Lies and Deception reverts back to Adam and Eve and deception used by the serpent which inevitably played a major role on mankind. In looking at that example, you can see just how important it is to understand and avoid deception. I looked up the definition of deceit so that you all will have a clear understanding of what this really means....

Deceit- The action or practice of deceiving someone by concealing or misrepresenting the truth


I provided this definition because in reality some of us might have been deceptive in many ways in our lives unknowingly or just really do not understand what it means in general. What I like the most about this definition is the latter part which states "misrepresenting the truth". I remember growing up my mom would tell me, if its not the whole truth it's a lie." Often times we could very much so be telling the truth, but we deliver it in a deceptive manner and there are consequences for that. Psalm 101:7 states, " No one who practices deceit shall dwell in my house; no one who utters lies shall continue before my eyes."  As a result of deception one can see that there are major consequences to deception.

Due to the fall mankind we are born into sin, we are not perfect, but each day we MUST strive to be like Christ. With that, we must strive to represent the truth accurately and we must not leave part of the truth out with those whom we come in contact with each day. This is especially pertinent to remember in our relationships with our friends, lovers, siblings, and parents.

I wanted to share this for those who might be battling with lying and deceit. You may think of  this as an act that is not harmful, but it results in the suffering of  major consequences with God. Be truthful in all that you do whether it's in those personal relationships I listed previously, on a job, on your taxes (since it is tax season). I encourage you to go a whole day without lying or deceit. Make it a daily choice and watch it become a lifestyle.

I leave you with this scripture:  "Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator." (Colossians 3:9-10)

Love,
Charity R.

The Grammy's: The Reality Of Where Our World Is Today

After posting an article of the well known Contemporary Christian artist, Natalie Grant on FB. I had an interesting conversation with a FB friend that sparked my interest to create a post about this. For those of you that did not see my article that was posted on fb, in summary, it discussed how Natalie Grant left the Grammy's early because she did not agree with the performances that were taking place. She stated, " We left the Grammy's early. I've many thoughts, most of which are probably better left inside of my head. But I will say this: I've never been more honored to sing about Jesus and for Jesus. And I've never been more sure of the path I've chosen." This act that Natalie did really encouraged and inspired me that it is okay to stand boldly for Christ even if we hold the minority view on things. Not only did Natalie Grant encourage and inspire others, but she honored God. This really brings to mind the scripture, Matthew 10:33 " But whosoever deny me before men, I will also deny before my father who is in heaven." We must be willing to take a stand for Christ. After all, that is what being a Christian is all about...being a follower of Christ. 

I really believe that  the Grammy's gave me a glimpse of where we are at in today's world. Sadly, this is only the beginning. The boldness of satanic worship and beliefs that are contrary to the word of God are being glamorized in front of our very own eyes. However, I REFUSE to become desensitized to the norms of this culture and I urge you all to daily take a stand for Christ. 

Earlier today I saw a quote posted on Instagram that said, "Diligence is Key" I think that is very imperative in our walks with Christ.Though people may come up against you and constantly disagree, it is imperative that you be diligent in speaking the truth, but also speaking the truth through the love of God. Keep seeking God and keep praying for this world that we live in.

Love, 
Charity R. 

This is a picture of Katy Perry's performance. She was one of many demonic performances that took place that night 

Don't Sweat The Small Things

Recently I have been having a lot of minor situations come up. I have been planning a wedding, preparing for a new life as a soon-to-be military wife, a new job, and getting adjusted to being  back at home as a college grad. With that I would say a few minor issues have come up along the way, but nothing too major to make me forget that God is in control. I think when we have a plethora of things on our plate we allow those minor issues to become a major issue because we put too much of an emphasis on the problem at hand instead of shifting that focus on the God who can alleviate us from those small issues. Often times, I find myself looking at my minor situations comical. Going through as many life altering situations I have been blessed to go through in my 22 years of living, I've learned to just not sweat the small things.

Notice how I said I have been blessed to go through those life altering situations. I used that term "blessed" because going through all of the hurt, pain, and disappointments I have experienced, I am still alive and well. I do not recall a single situation that God has NOT brought me out of. God has never failed me. His love for me never fails. It is because of God's unfailing love that I can approach every situation in my life with a victorious attitude.

Nothing is too hard for God. After all, 1 Corinthians 1:27 says that God, "uses the foolish things to confound the wise". I've come to know that even in those small things God uses those incidents to teach us valuable lessons. With that being said, I want to encourage you to breathe a little. Life is too short to allow those small situations to get the best of us and inevitably force us to miss out on being a blessing to others or receive a blessing for ourselves. 

I Can Have What I Say???

In church we often times hear the words, "I can have what I say" but is that saying biblical if what you are saying does not line up with the will of God? Lamentations 3:37 says, "Who is he who speaks and it comes to pass, if the Lord has not authorized and commanded it". This verse really makes that notion plain and simple. The will of God will always prevail. Now, I'm not knocking you standing on faith for things and petitioning things through prayer, but you must make sure that the things you are "standing on faith" about lines up with God's purpose and plan for your life. You might ask, How do I know if what I am stepping out on faith in is aligned with Gods will for me? The answer to this is that you spend time in prayer and meditation with God. Furthermore, do not lose faith. God can do exceedingly abundantly above all we can ask or think. If you are  facing a hopeless situation where it's hard to see God in, know that He is working on your behalf. In addition, we CAN have what we say, but it must be apart God's perfect plan for our lives.

Spiritual Warfare

This morning I woke up and was completely attacked in my thoughts from every direction. Moments like this show you how real spiritual warfare truly is. We must not allow Satan to abuse us by implanting negative thoughts into our minds. Entertaining these thoughts can lead to bitterness, anger, resentment, jealousy, hatred, and un-forgiveness. The scripture that comes to mind when discussing this topic is (Philippians 4:7) "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and mind in Christ Jesus." If you are undergoing a spiritual attack, pray immediately. Do not give into to Satan and his old tricks that he continually uses from believer to believer. I urge you to pray even throughout your day while you're on your lunch break, in your car, in the shower, or wherever you can get some alone time. Talk to God and share those issues with them. You will instantly feel a weight lifted. The Bible tells us also in 1 Peter 5:7 to cast our cares on Him for He cares for us. Give every minor and major situation to God. God want to make you strong so that when greater attacks do come, you are well equipped to handle them. God cares for you and you are His sons and daughters. Tell your father what's going on and let Him figure out the solution. Do not put matters into your own hands. This is a spiritual battle! We do not wrestle against flesh and blood and we must remind ourselves daily. Zechariah 4:6 reminds us that it's not by power, nor by might, but by my spirit says the Lord. Again, don't try to fix your issues on your own and approach this spiritually. The adversary is ready to take every believer out. Consider your attack a compliment. Satan wouldn't attack someone he doesn't see as a threat.  I will end on this verse: "Be well balanced (temperate, sober of mind), be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a roaring lion [ in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour." 1 Peter 5:8 (AMP)

CONTINUALLY PRAY!

Charity

2014 is Finally Here!!!

With it being so long since I've posted I will catch you up on everything that has happened with me thus far. I graduated from Kansas State University and finally have my bachelors degree THANK GOD!!! I had a wonderful collegiate experience at KSU and wouldn't trade any minute of it for the world. I truly believe God allowed me to really develop in the woman that He wants me to be. In addition to graduating, I moved back home with the parents and I am enjoying being back home in Texas until my fiance graduates from the Academy in May. 2013 was a WONDERFUL year for me. God blessed me in so many ways even when I was undeserving. I couldn't be more thankful that I serve a God who loves me unconditionally. With that, I am ecstatic that 2014 is here! I get to marry my amazing, handsome, and loving fiance this year and we get to start our lives together finally. I cannot wait to see what all of 2014 entails for us.

Here are some pictures from my graduation:

Me after walking across the stage

My brother and I 

Me and my sister