IT'S A HAPPY NEW YEAR LEARNING NEW HABITS!

I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.
Psalm 63:2

New International Version (NIV)

It was amazing for me to witness how attentive the young college folks in my home were. It was Christmas break and they seemed to relax with the television on, lap tops plugged in and their smart phones in hand. They seemed hypnotized by one or the other, possibly mesmerized is more appropriate!

They huddled together and listened intently to the television and even commented in unison about the antics of several of the "stars" during a particular episode of some "Reality" show that I knew nothing of. I immediately wondered whose reality was this really? The star's strained tones, always boisterous, obnoxious behavior and argumentative conversations were exhausting.

But my focus shifted from the tirades when women began to speak at length about making New Year’s Resolutions, now that got my immediate attention. Admittedly I am out of touch with the recent line-up with this new crop of celebs on these reality shows, but their over dramatic personalities and one sided perspectives appeared very loop-sided, self serving, slanted and greedy for the most part. But it's not my call, not my "Reality" production, and certainly not my lifestyle being showcased. Let’s give each other a high five on that reality! But from what I could discern their rituals or habits have a lot to be desired. Maybe that was the fascination with why we watch these unscripted series. Or are they? But distinctly I heard (sensed their) preceived DEFEAT, with their pronouncements regarding and maintaining their New Year’s Resolutions.

Each person boldly shared with convincing gestures where they would and wouldn't frequent, what they planned on acquiring and the things that they'd not tolerate anymore. But no sooner than those pronouncements spilled from their mouths they shared that they realized that their resolutions were already going to be short lived (just like the standard resolutions that so many of us make). Often it's all for not. But I too have been there and done that! You know made an elaborate plan and strategy for the New Year which failed. So often we mean well, but our well planned out resolutions are short lived. Our stamina and commitment seems fleeting and we’re back to our old habits. The resolutions are gone bye-bye and generally don’t make it through the week. As we mature we dispense with this practice and it is back to business as usual! But something is really missing! Now I am trying to make no promises to myself or others that I sense are already futile. But I learned of a Divine source that pushes and prompts me! No resolution can do that! So after my good chuckle at the confusing reality show I realized that it was time to refocus, time to quiet myself, read , reflect, pray and get some spiritual direction. Is that you also? Later that morning I reached for a new addition to my inspirational library and read the following from Jesus Calling-Enjoying Peace in His Presence by Sarah Young.

"I WANT YOU TO LEARN A NEW HABIT.

Try saying, “I trust You, Jesus" in
response to whatever happens to you. If there is time to think about whom I am
in all My Power and Glory; ponder also the depth and breadth of My Love for you.
This simple practice will help you see me in every situation, acknowledging my
sovereign control over the universe. When you view events from this
perspective-through the Light of my universal Presence-fear loses its grip on
you. Adverse circumstances become growth opportunities when you affirm your
trust in Me no matter what. You receive blessings gratefully, realizing they
flow directly from My hand of grace. Your continual assertion of trusting Me
will strengthen our relationship and keep you close to Me. Psalm 63:2; Isaiah
40:10-11; Psalm 139:7-10"

I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.
Psalm 63:2 (NIV)

See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. Isaiah 40:10-11 (NIV)

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. Psalm 139:7-10 (NIV)

I suspect the Holy Spirit has also given you goose bumps. God is speaking to us! It's clear why so many of our resolutions don't make it out of the gate-our old habits win! These habits push God aside! We've overlooked the most crucial ingredient of getting in the habit of remembering and actively trusting Jehovah, our Author and Creator of the universe. He’s the very One-the I Am that has birthed our hopes, dreams and desires. There is no plan if God is not a part of it.

There can be no hope of getting through the tough obstacles if we've not carried the baton of faith, the powerful Holy Scripture in our hearts/minds and love for being a child of the most High God. We can't make it and possibly believe that our natural stamina will sustain us in this world!

There’s nothing that can replace, refresh and restore us like Jesus! If you have one resolution let that be to learn a new habit of entrusting ourselves and all that concerns us to Jesus. Today friends, tell yourselves, your loved ones, and Him: "I trust you Lord! I am in your capable and wonderful care!" Now that’s a resolution that will remain, let’s get in the habit! Happy New Year everyone!

With A Thankful Heart!Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly & Empower Magazine Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

A VERY ENCOURAGING WAY TO KICKSTART MY 2012 BLOGGING: WORDPRESS.COM’S 2011 BLOGGING IN REVIEW!

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough,and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity...Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow." Melodie Beattie, Motivational Author

WordPress.com presented an annual report of my blog: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises. This was a capsule of my 2011 blogging and a great way to jumpstart the new year. I tremendously appreciated their Happy New Year notice and just wanted to spread some encouragemet to the seasoned blogger and to those that are possibly embarking upon a new journey of blogging! It was a report with all the bells and whistles, I just couldn't capture that here but felt that it was such a fun and beneficial piece of news that I had to share it!

So here goes my wordpress.com annual report:

" Your overall score is not known (details).To kick off the new year, we’d like to share with you data on The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises’s activity in 2011...Crunchy numbers

A San Francisco cable car holds 60 people. This blog was viewed about 2,700 times in 2011. If it were a cable car, it would take about 45 trips to carry that many people. In 2011, there were 23 new posts, growing the total archive of this blog to 251 posts. There were 37 pictures uploaded, taking up a total of 3mb. That's about 3 pictures per month.The busiest day of the year was February 1st with 37 views. The most popular post that day was EXPLORING THE MEASURE OF THE MAN.
EXPLORING THE MEASURE OF THE MAN (1/4)EXPLORING THE MEASURE OF THE MAN (2/4)EXPLORING THE MEASURE OF THE MAN (3/4)EXPLORING THE MEASURE OF THE MAN (4/4) GOD'S BEEN JUST THAT GOOD! THE POWER OF BEING UNDERESTIMATED (1/2)THE POWER OF BEING UNDERESTIMATED (2/2)GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOU! BLESSINGS TO OUR BELOVED MEN: A FATHER'S DAY TRIBUTE! REMARKABLE CHAUTAUQUA: A SOUL AWAKENING EXPERIENCE! (1/6)REMARKABLE CHAUTAUQUA: A SOUL AWAKENING EXPERIENCE! (2/6)REMARKABLE CHAUTAUQUA: A SOUL AWAKENING EXPERIENCE! (3/6)REMARKABLE CHAUTAUQUA: A SOUL AWAKENING EXPERIENCE! (4/6)REMARKABLE CHAUTAUQUA: A SOUL AWAKENING EXPERIENCE! (5/6)REMARKABLE CHAUTAUQUA: A SOUL AWAKENING EXPERIENCE! (6/6)HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR KING - PAYING TRIBUTE TO DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING , JR.AboutMEET YOU AT THE WELL: HAVING A HEART-TO-HEART WITH JESUS!WE ARE CHRISTMAS! (1/2)WE ARE CHRISTMAS! (2/2)WE ARE CHRISTMAS! (1/2)WE ARE CHRISTMAS! (2/2)

How did they find this blog? The top referring sites in 2011 were:

en.wordpress.com, blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com, facebook.com, stumbleupon.com and alphainventions.com

Some visitors came searching, mostly for the power of being underestimated, devising a marketing plan, charles bibbs, and linda mose meadows.

Where did they come from?

North America91.5% The United States6.1% Canada0.7% Dominican Republic0.7% Panama0.3% Trinidad and TobagoAsia31.7% Philippines12.7% India11.1% Indonesia7.9% Hong Kong7.9% JapanEurope27.5% The United Kingdom12.5% Russia12.5% Greece10.0% Iceland5.0% BelgiumAfrica54.5% South Africa18.2% Kenya9.1% Namibia9.1% Ghana9.1% ZimbabweSouth America50.0% Brazil20.0% Argentina10.0% Ecuador10.0% Guyana10.0% ColombiaOceania100.0% Australia

Most visitors came from The United States. Philippines & Canada were not far behind.

Who were they?

The most commented on post in 2011 was HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR KING - PAYING TRIBUTE TO DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING , JR .

These were the 5 most active commenters on this blog:
1 student loan forgiveness free 3 comments
2 Only student debt consolidation loans 2 comments
3 Cheap fossil purses 2 comments
4 interesting facts 1 comment
5 Miguel Ubidia 1 comment Attractions in 2011

These are the posts that got the most views on The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises in 2011.
1 EXPLORING THE MEASURE OF THE MAN 0 comments January 2011
2 GOD'S BEEN JUST THAT GOOD! 4 comments October 2010
3 THE POWER OF BEING UNDERESTIMATED 3 comments November 2010
4 GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOU! BLESSINGS TO OUR BELOVED MEN: A FATHER'S DAY TRIBUTE! 0 comments June 2011
5 REMARKABLE CHAUTAUQUA: A SOUL AWAKENING EXPERIENCE! 1 comment July 2010
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So glad to see another year and have an opportunity to marvel at and of course write about the marvelous sights, sounds and miracles I've yet to behold! Keep living with great hope and always continue your writing! Happy New Year my friends! God bless you!

Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly & Empower Magazine Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/
http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/
http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

WE ARE CHRISTMAS!

The Morehouse College Glee Club

The Spelman College Glee Club

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,

because he will save his people from their sins.

All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had said through the prophet:

The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son,

and they will call him Immanuel— which means, God with us.

Matthew 1:21-23

It's time to celebrate the Christ child's birth, and it's also a season for reflection and joy. In my estimation, it's really a time to give spiritual birth to new possibilities, new endeavors and new insights. It's time to unearth dreams and embrace realities yet to be seen. I believe we endeavor to capture the essence of the Christmas Spirit, Christ in our decorations, traditions, celebrations and rituals.

What would a holiday be without music to uplift and enlighten us? Music can take us there, there to a place when our minds conceive what our hearts wish to convey. We love all that Christmas represents: goodwill and God's love for us! It's a time to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, gather with our cherished loved ones, exchange presents and commemorate the greatest gift that God has given us!

This is my Christmas musical gift card to you! Hope you enjoy The Morehouse-Spelman Christmas Concert. Here's a youtube video of We Are Christmas. In a word it's POWERFUL, the lyrics, the arrangement and the beautiful delivery. Your hearts will flutter with the truth of the lyrics that we are Christmas, Christ in us!

Spelman College Glee Club-We Are Christmas

Here's another gift box you may wish to open. National Public Radio (NPR) taped an hour concert :

"The choirs of two of the most prestigious historically black institutions in the
nation join together to present a spine-tingling concert program.

In a Christmas celebration of the schools' tradition of singing excellence, the
Morehouse and Spelman Glee Clubs perform spirituals, carols and sacred texts
from the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College in
Atlanta, Ga.

NPR's Korva Coleman hosts."

Enjoy your holidays friends and remember that we are Christmas!

Blessings to you and yours, Merry Christmas!

Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly & Empower Magazine Columnist and
Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of
Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith
Magazine
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/
http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/
http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

HOPE, PREPARE, JOY, LOVE-IT'S THE SEASON OF ADVENT!

“Behold, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel--which, when translated, means, God with us” (Matthew 1:23, AMP).

This beautiful banner hangs in the narthex of Christ Church Cathedral in Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas! Not only was the church impressive, but the banner expressed perfectly the sentiment of this joyous season of ADVENT.

Lord, you bring light into our darkness.

My spirit says, "Yes!" "Thank you Lord for this wonderful Christmas Season!"

We express HOPE for the coming of our King, Jesus Christ!

We PREPARE with anticipation of being a part of a royal priesthood which saves us from a dismal and dreadful existence.

We understand that we have a safety net that cradles us from destruction and sin.

We experience and embrace a new JOY, a real and deep down JOY because our righteousness is made perfect in Christ.

And finally we can walk in and realize a life changing LOVE the empowers us to rejoice in the knowledge that God is with us!

Learn more and appreciate what the coming of Christ means for your life. There's an interesting website which explains this Christian Season of Advent that I thought you'd appreciate: The Voice, Biblical and Theological Resources for Growing.

We are excited about the coming of Christ! Let's celebrate and sing with thanksgiving. Select some soulful, spirit filled,anointed music that encourages you to lift your voices and rejoice that the light of Jesus can surely dramatically alter, brighten our lives and remove the darkness of defeat! Declare with me friends that it's a new season. Feel the flutter, our hearts are over come with glee as we give birth to our spiritual reawakening! Holy Ghost we know it's you!

Lord we prepare for your coming!

How Great Is Our God! Bishop Morton

Shared in Great JOY!
Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly & Empower Magazine Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

REFOCUSING WITH A HEART OF THANKSGIVING!

Our Thanksgiving season is upon us and I didn't want to miss sharing what I contend is an opportunity to express in this moment that it's time to get in in gear. Step away from life's difficulties for a moment and get in gear with a new mindset to refocus our priorities and give God thanks for all He's done. It's time to get moving! So friends this is a repost, but I know that I know that it's time to think about the goodness of the Lord as we shift onward and upward, refocusing on the things that matter most trusting that God has a timely message just for you. Rejoice and enjoy my friends...

“Honesty and transparency make you vulnerable.

Be honest and transparent anyway.”
Mother Teresa
(1910-1997); Founder Of The Missionaries Of Charity

I had my eyes on him and I was so glad I did! I was the observant co-pilot, the “passenger side” driver. By the way friends I designated myself to be on the lookout for those anxious holiday drivers. You've seen them moving too fast and not paying attention! Ricky was behind the steering wheel. When he mashed the brakes, my foot mirrored his actions. We were laughing and chatting as we traveled in Alexandria, VA. It was obvious that the driver in front of us was distracted. How did I know he was distracted? His swerving was a great indicator that something was amiss! With insistance I said, “Honey watch out for that guy! Let’s stay far away from him!”

As we moved into the next lane, the erratic driver attempted to switch lanes and move in our space. Our horn startled him, I then witnessed this driver holding his cell phone close to his ear. He was talking nonstop, looking quite comfortable behind his steering wheel. It apeared as though he was very involved in a conversation that occupied his entire attention. I believe God was demonstrating something for us.

Just possibly this message is confirmation that the Holy Spirit desires that we refocus today.

As we sat in the left turning lane awaiting the green traffic signal then proceeding, we heard a terrible sound that two cars make when there’s been a collision. I was relieved that our vehicle hadn’t felt the physical impact. But I knew someone had been very shaken up! The traffic light changed from red to green and as we proceeded through the intersection I looked over my shoulder and recognized that the guy on the cell phone was involved. Apparently he rear ended the SUV in front of him. I surmised that the driver in the vehicle in front of him hadn't moved because the traffic light hadn't changed yet. His front hood appeared to look like a crumpled aluminum "pop" can. Surely he was dazed, his negligent driving skills had caused great distress.

My heart sank for the innocent party involved in this accident. It's evident that the perpetrator of the accident paid no attention to the obvious stationary car. The guy on the cell phone was too caught up in his conversation-his world! He should have let it go! Let the phone go until he arrived at his destination.

There are some things we can’t do simultaneously! Texting and talking while driving are at the top of my list. As this year wraps up it’s important to acknowledge what we aren’t able to do effectively handle and act according. It’s a matter of refocusing, refocusing in order to pay careful attention to the important matters, especially those we are currently involved in. Lord knows it makes for a better day! It's clear we don't operate in a vacuum. I'm sure you agree that our actions do effect others!


Several thoughts regading REFOCUSING come to mind:

What impressions are we leaving behind?

Those we come into contact with should be glad we were in their presence, are they?

Reflect abd recall on what happens when we are moving hastily? In retrospect were the outcomes worth it?

Peacefully moving forward, is that a foreign concept?
Have you considered it?

Are you enjoying the ride-your life, the journey you are currently experiencing? What happens when our destination is no longer the primary goal?

Take heart, we've all experienced unexpected hardships. What was the lesson?

What happens when we get stuck in the past and drag our feet in moving forward?

Do you know "atmosphere changers" that stir up hurt and confusion? Could they have possibly handled things in a better way?

How important is it to pay attention to our surroundngs, our loved ones and the things in life that matter most?

Friends as we reflect on those questions, let's be encouraged in our spirits to refocus our energies and time to first seek divine guidance; continually praying for God's will over us and what concerns His will for our lives! Yes, I'd like to believe that God is moving in our hearts to accomplish wonderful things, if we just refocus!



Psalm 121 (New International Version)

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;

8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

It's Food for Thought! Shared in Great JOY!

Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly & Empower Magazine Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/ http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/
http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

THINK WHATEVER YOU WISH!

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Philippians 4:8

My parting words to my friend, Chappelle were “Keep your head up master sculptor! I love you!” The words master sculptor must have resonated in Chappelle’s spirit-I could feel the beams of his smile radiate through the cell phone. Surely this remark must have touched my friends’ heart, I meant what I said.

That morning’s mission was to walk and purchase some additional hand soap. My dear friend phoned while I was perusing the isles of Dollar General for liquid soaps only (that’s what I told myself), but curiosity pulled me towards the house wares and whatever else caught my eye. When the cell phone rang I was glad that in this instance I remembered my one purchase pledge and answered the call. It was spontaneous, as soon as we heard each others voice joyous laughter ensued. We were having such a great time conversing I was oblivious to the other meandering customers. Their stares were my barometer for toning the laughter way down. I realized that I was having too much fun and speaking much too loudly for public surroundings, but I couldn’t resist. We began to talk and chuckle about many things. Laughter really erupted when he shared that his house seemed to be in worse shape after a certain cleaning crew arrived. Their house cleaning escapades were futile and down right comical! As the saying goes, “Busted!” Chappelle knew their antics and hated reporting them, but oh well they were wrong for guising laziness as productivity. They tried to convince Chappelle otherwise. We laughed about these charades and concurred that his not having sight didn’t negate his intuitive nature and skills for divulging the truth.

But I suspect that the real objective of this conversation was to remind my friend that he is an accomplished artisan and more importantly that he is fearfully and wonderfully made. These revelatory words needed to fall on my own ears and transform my thinking. The Holy Spirit obviously wanted us to connect. It was a refreshing reminder about how the Lord has fashioned us. Chatting on the cell phone-just enjoying the movement of walking and noticing the Christmas merchandise displayed much too soon, Chappelle said to me that this was a day for strolling and not falling for any foolishness. He hit the nail on the head. In my spirit I wanted to take my time and not be anxious and that’s just what I intended on doing-strolling outdoors first, through the shopping center complex, then down the store isles, and back home from my morning walk.


As I walked down the main thoroughfare it was also my intention to pay attention to my surroundings, to be appreciative of the moment and not hastily move. So initially I ventured up the street noticing what I believed was the frantic motorist’s intent on driving over top the other. It was comical, but sad how these hurried motorists deliberately were tailgating, almost rear ending and colliding. Continuing my walk I observed my neighbor’s overgrown and manicured landscapes with varying shades of green, and marveled at the variety of snaking flower vines that crept up the trees and hung heavily with the tree branches. There was no shortage of lush plant life. The scenery truly was beautiful! How I wished I had had my camera.


The sun shown brightly but didn’t scorch me and for that I was extremely pleased. It felt good to be free. It was indeed a nature day spa experience. It was rejuvenating, my soul’s muscles were flexing! I was able to breathe, stroll and witness nature’s glory! Oh how sweet it was my friends to be given the opportunity to applaud my surroundings and not be rude, rushed, mentally immobile, burdened down, pulled and consumed with worries!


I realize that now it’s our choice on how we choose to seize our moments, but it ain’t easy. Yes, I meant ain’t! Feeling encouraged? I suspect there’s a heightened realization and we are more confident-hopeful, because our thinking and personal direction aren’t isolated regarding our capabilities. The more I’ve been able to actively carve out time to read God’s word, pray, focus and devote myself to staying connected to the tree of life- partaking in devotional enrichment, the slower my exhausting pace is and the more I appreciate my connection to our loving Savior Jesus Christ. I trust that you’ve found this to be accurate also?


As Chappelle fittingly stated, “Linda, it’s a day for strolling!”


Had Chappelle and I continued our conversation I would have enthusiastically encouraged him to stroll on to the library or venture on to his favorite bookstore and acquire this book on tape or in Braille: The Three Battlegrounds (An In-depth view of the three arenas of spiritual warfare, the mind, the church and heavenly places) by Francis Frangipane. I know, that I know that it was no coincidence that I’d rediscover a book that seemed to float from my inspirational shelf to my kitchen table and finally land on my “good intention” reading pile-grabbing my attention. This book has broadened my understanding of strongholds. Just like Chappelle’s former house cleaners the enemy intends to dupe us regarding God’s intended plans for all that concerns us. But thank goodness that darkness can’t prevail! It’s clearer to me now that our clouded thinking, the roadblocks, mixed messages that intentionally halt and hurt are dangerous strongholds. But there is good news my friends, victory is attainable! Often the positive direction we long for can be found within arm’s reach.


The power lies within us to seek out the truth and gain clarity about spiritual warfare maneuvers. Remember the spiritual battle we face will cause us to stumble and not stroll.
The demonic design is an arrangement to confound, distract and confuse us with contaminated thinking that diminishes our worth! But the truth about our royalty lies in God’s word. It starts with consulting the Holy Scripture and embracing the Lord’s instructions. Our shelves may also contain many spirit-led words that may help us gain new perspectives for more rewarding lives. Check out what’s in your midst. We can fight the good fight of faith and change our minds and hearts!


Think on the goodness of Jesus!



Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8


The Holy Spirit has charged us with fully embracing God’s promises for a rewarding life. Let’s begin to boldly and honestly examine our thinking and ask God to reveal what our strongholds are (i.e. envy, bitterness, depression, anger, procrastination, __________ fill in the blank, etc.) which hinder God’s perfect plan for us.


Be assured that the love of God will turn the tide for abundant living with unsuspecting extraordinary outcomes. Oh I am so grateful for God’s love and the depth of it that keeps us buoyant as we travel this earthly and spiritual plain.


Ok friends I am crossing the street now, headed home and will talk with you later. Remember think whatever you wish, just let it be lovely!


With A Thankful Heart!

Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly & Empower Magazine Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/
http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/
http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

IT'S TIME TO DO SOMETHING NEW!

“He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust; his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.” Psalm 91:4

I realize that it's really no accident that often I catch television programming at the right time. A world series winning game, the NBA finals, and/or a PBS series may be airing and is so riveting that it allows me stretch my outlook or provide me a brand new perspective on world events. Not to mention some super duper sports events is occuring that I would have hated to miss! So I knew it was surely providential that I witness the crowning of Miss Angola as Miss Universe and then later on check out America’s Got Talent on the internet and learn more about the winner and other contestants. You wonder the correlation? Well, I believe it has to do with celebrating the underdog or my inkling towards appreciating another one of life's lesson that in this life expecting the unexpected is the norm (at least for me). Sidebar: dealing with the unexpected gracefully is my challenge. It may irritate loved ones watching television with you, but it pays to channel surf-treats await us!


You never know what’s being broadcasted that was intended to delight and lift your spirit. It’s like being a little kid, you really don’t want to miss out!
I am sorry to learn about the most recent controversy with Miss Angola-Miss Universe. But it was indeed a celebratory moment seeing the crowning.


Today, I choose to focus on another winner of the 2011 America’s Got Talent Contest. There was an elephant in the room; it was so big, so obvious that it sat on the heads of the judges, especially the one who openly revealed that he believed that when he saw the contestant it was going to be a “total train wreck”. Mind you this was the furthest thing from the truth, but it was his belief system. The America’s Got Talent Judges had no clue what was about to occur. One particular judge openly had to recount and gobble each negative verbal morsel regarding what he said and believed.

Contestant: Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.’s first taped audition was an eye opener and heart fixer regarding his passion and capabilities. God was in the details. His vocation and life style weren’t necessarily a hard luck story but one that was evidenced by humble beginnings for this 36 year old man. The Youtube video below contains all the ingredients about how folks can have it all wrong about your talent(s), skill set(s) and gift(s). Those authorized experts usually have a limited scope of knowledge about whom they are judging. Consequently the predictions are way off, they miss the mark and their forecasts are generally unfair. If we are not careful these pronouncements can color our thinking! But it’s a matter of whom we choose to believe. Thank God we do understand and are aware that our capabilities are innumerable.


A break, a chance-that’s what we yearn for! Mr. Murphy beautifully has shown us that exposure and a leap of faith will unlock an armored door to phenomenal possibilities! He is our proof in the pudding that the world likes to rubber stamp and pigeon hole those that fit a stereotypical template. But these narrow minded individuals really don’t have a clue. Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. had the audacity to enjoy singing Frank Sinatra and dared to showcase an outstanding performance of Sinatra’s signature songs. Mr. Murphy boldly elected to go against the grain of his contemporaries. He relinquished singing familiar pop culture lyrics with provocative dancers to win over the audience and judges. Oh my friends Landau confidently sang, took a great chance and soared with his musical rendition in the style of the master crooner Frank Sinatra. Frank Sinatra is not necessarily known, appreciated, nor admired by many young entertainers. But God!


The fact is:

When we are stepping out on faith there is no need to be fearful, God had given us love and a sound mind!
2 Timothy 1:7


We are fearfully and wonderfully made, so when God gives us the courage to complete something, we shouldn’t hesitate. As Nike says, “Just do it!” The clock is ticking let's get moving!
Psalm 139:14


We are God’s very own workmanship, unique-a splendid creation! Ephesians 2:10

and

He knows the plans He has for us, end of subject!
Jeremiah 29:11


So with those bold truths, the Holy Spirit gives us the muscle and stamina to handle the mundane things of life. It’s the humble, small things, the uneventful day to day grind that is required until our change occurs. And in our hearts if we hold fast and do not waver in faith, inevitably we’ll experience an awakening. No this awakening may not be a star stunned contract, but it won’t make us ashamed. We’ll see a shift, a divine and brilliant plan unfold.


The chief architect, Jehovah lays the landscape (with key personnel/advisors in place to assist us) and God gives us the desire to cultivate our gifts. We too realize that it’s urgent to get moving with deliberate action and in time, in due season our gifts will make room for us! Surely Landau knew in his heart what he deeply yearned for and I am confident that that must have been the spark needed to catapult him to an opportune destination towards his hearts desire. Before long he realized his dreams as winner of the 2011 America’s Got Talent. It took work and fortitude to get to this audition. I bet it was more than just purchasing a train ticket or hopping on the Greyhound or Mega Bus? It probably meant tremendous sacrifice. He detailed and washed cars for a living, so we know that his finances were meager.

Good news flash: it’s outdated history regarding Landau washing cars for his living. I feel it in my spirit that he must have glimpsed a sweet taste of glory divine as he scrubbed the hubcaps, pushed through soap suds and hosed down countless cars. So with that in mind, what remains in your view? What are you long for, expecting, anticipating? Landau’s won America’s Got Talent 2011. We can win also! It starts with a renewed outlook! Oh friends God wants us to know that our future is before us! Hold on! Hold on to hope!


My friends, this stellar crooner can look back and not wonder how he made it through. Let’s salute him, applaud his tenacity and Thank God that he’s a modern day example of a possibility thinker with great faith! Praise God, praise God from whom all blessings flow! In his truth filled words, “It’s time to do something new and follow my dream!” Contestant:____________ ( fill in your name) your up!






With A Thankful Heart! Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly & Empower Magazine Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

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