Generously Speaking

One can give without loving, but one cannot love without giving. As I ponder on this statement, there is a question that arises: what would be the difference between the one that gives without loving and the one that gives because they love? The distinction would be the generosity of the heart. One gives out of obligation while the other gives from the abundance of gratefulness that flows through their heart. 

Generosity is more than an action, it is a character trait. A generous person is free from poverty of the mind where they think little, everything is of an abundant nature. They are liberal in their giving in all areas of their lives because it was first impressed upon them by the One who gave liberally, even to death, out of love. A generous person is also unselfish by nature. How could one hold back anything that was given in the first place? This truth is what abounds and compels them to give more. Finally, a generous person is always rich in spirit. Because they have made seeking God’s kingdom their first priority, they abide in the fruits of the Spirit and they are assured that they will not lack any good thing, so giving will never become a mundane chore, but a joyful celebration.

Our example of generosity and everything that involves Christian living should be Jesus the Christ. He lived an exceedingly generous life. He was unselfish with His time, He loved who the world would consider unlovable, and He healed, taught, and preached out of pure love for us. Allow generosity to rule over your heart so your actions may follow, generously speaking of course!

~ Toni H.

Why The Tithe Is Important

The topical discussion of money within the church has always been a subject matter that is treaded softly upon. The aversion is mostly due to the differing of opinions of whether it is an Old or New Testament teaching.  The fact of the matter is that tithes and offerings are mentioned in both, the Old and New Testament teachings. Simple research with a concordance or an internet search engine will prove this true.

Now let’s get to the core of the matter which is defining what a tithe is and why it is important. A tithe is a tenth of agricultural produce or personal income set apart as an offering to God for the support of the church. The tithe is a fundamental resource that belongs to the Source that is set aside for His will. I want to discuss three reasons why the tithe is important. First, giving the tithe is an act of obedience to God. God asks us to bring all the tithes to His storehouse which is the church. This is an act of obedience. Because our heavenly Father asked, we should do. Secondly, giving the tithe supports the administration, missions, and ministries of the church. Our mission trips help to offer relief to the poor and push the spread of the gospel throughout the nations. Ministry within our church offers outreach in our communities as well as sponsoring events for spiritual growth to the congregation. Finally, giving the tithe is proof that our heart is open to the will of God. God ask for us to give cheerfully and willingly, without a grudge. This proves that we have not allowed money to become the center of our lives, but allow God to direct its use.

The principle of tithing should not be an awkward discussion or talking point. I would like to reiterate that the tithe is a resource that belongs to the Source for the working of His will. So we should evaluate our hearts in regards to the position money plays in our relationship to God and allow the Holy Spirit to direct our giving.

Meditate on this scripture that encourages giving the tithe:

Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce (Proverbs 3:9).

~Toni H.   

The Greatest Gift You Can Give

He offers a once in a lifetime opportunity! He came so we can exchange our sorrow for His joy; redeem impending spiritual death for eternal life, convert the hardened heart into a clean heart, and interchange a mediocre life for a more abundant one. How can one take part in this opportunity? The opportunity is open for those who are willing to give their lives to Christ.

The most important decision that we make in life is not what career path to take, where to go to school, or even the selection of a spouse. Although all of these things mentioned are important, the decision to give our lives to Christ is the most important. Why? Our sins will be forgiven and it guarantees the place in which we will be spending eternity. Giving our lives to Christ will also result in receiving wisdom for those important decisions that we have to make in life. We are also afforded the opportunity to participate in the building of His Kingdom; this is where true fulfillment resides: walking in our purpose to advance His will. Finally, we are rewarded with the opportunity of having a true friend and everlasting relationship with God the Father through Christ. Our prayers will be heard, we will receive guidance for the future, comfort will be given during difficult times, and we will receive His protection and strength.

The new life in Christ will come with resistance from the enemy, and we will experience heart aches and setbacks which are inevitable, but we have the assurance of spiritual stability and a God and Friend who will hold our hands along the way; we will never be alone again because He promised it! Give your life over to Christ, it will be the best decision you will ever make.

Meditate on this scripture that expresses the reward of giving your life to Christ:

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”(Revelation 3:20)

~Toni H.

Memorial Day

Today we remember those who served In the Armed Forces and made the ultimate sacrifice. We honor the men and women who still serve our country and the families they leave behind. May God continue to keep and bless you. We salute you! Let this be a day of reflection. Let it be a day that we not only remember those who give to us but a day we in turn give back to others. Whether it be you time or talent, show someone today that you care. Give by showing the love of Christ that is within you. 

John 15:13 

Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends"

Happy Memorial Day! 


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Giving God Praise and Worship

What can we give to God after all He has done for us? How can we express our gratitude for the forgiveness of our sins through Jesus the Christ? What can we offer that will give Him delight? He holds the universe in His hands, so what could we possibly bestow upon Him as a representation of our gratefulness? We can give Praise and Worship!!

Praise can be defined as the act of expressing goodness, approval, or admiration, usually in the form of songs. So we can view praise as singing or any act that expresses our thankfulness for what God has done and for the promises that are soon to come. Here are some ways we can praise God: we can praise Him with our words, we can sing songs of praise as well as hymns, we can lift our hands to the heavens as an act of submission, and we can offer up prayers of gratitude for His continued mercy and grace. God is worthy of our praise.

Worship can be defined as the act of rendering reverence or homage. We can view worship as giving honor to God, solely, for who He is. When we worship, our objective should consist of complete adoration in spirit and in truth. Here are some ways we can worship God: we can worship Him by our obedience to His word, we worship with the giving of our resources, we can worship by serving others, and we can worship by surrendering our hearts, desires, and will to Him. This list is not inclusive; we can worship God in several other ways by just letting the Holy Spirit lead us. God is worthy of our worship.

Giving praise and worship are expectations that God has set for us. Praise and worship are designed for our benefit because it allows us to enter into the presence of God where all blessings, healing, provision and wisdom reside. More importantly, praise and worship deepens our relationship with God through Jesus the Christ. Never forsake the offering of praise and worship for this is how God manifests Himself to us.

Meditate on the scripture which encourages giving praise and worship to God:

“Let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name”. (Hebrews 13:15).

~ Toni H.

Practicing the Principle of Giving in the Workplace

       Our place of work or employment takes up a considerable amount of time on a daily basis. Often times, we exert more energy there than in our own homes. Because of the time spent in the workplace, the possibilities are endless when it comes to expending Christ-like influence over others. If we take these things into consideration, we can conclude that our workplace can be used as an instrument to practice the principle of giving.

            While there are many titles and job descriptions, I would like to single out three particular occupations in which giving can be practiced while working. First, customer service positions have great opportunities to practice giving. Sharing a word of inspiration to those persons you assist and to coworkers are great expressions of giving. When you go over and beyond your normal duties to help others, you show the love of Christ within you by helping another in need. Also, being the example by exhibiting great moral character can influence others to act in the same manner. Next, teachers also carry a great deal of opportunities to give. Teachers have the honor of shaping the minds and skills of future leaders. The greatest gifts that a teacher can give are their undivided attention and time. By giving students time and undivided attention when needed, teachers impart in them the confidence to pursue education at a higher level by giving them the tools and skills necessary for them to move to the next phase. Delivering quality education is a pivotal cornerstone in a student’s life, and when a teacher provides expertise, they enhance the student’s capacity to compete for quality careers in the future. Finally, stay at home parents and working parents have the greatest opportunities to give. A parent is a child’s first teacher. Giving your child the knowledge of Christ is very important in their development. Since the role of a parent never ceases, the moral character that is displayed in front of them has the greatest impact over any other person a child will ever encounter. Therefore, living a Christian life, on a continuous basis, is the greatest gift that a parent can give their child.

            The act of giving extends much further than what people normally conceive it to be. Giving in the workplace not only benefits the recipients of our kindness, but it also sharpens our character and it deepens our witness. Let us transform our view of our workplaces into a place that glorifies our Lord.  

Meditate on this Scripture that encourages giving your best effort in your workplace:

“Whatever you do, work at it with all of your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.”(Colossians 3:23).

~Toni H.

GOD.... The Ultimate Giver

As I ponder on the discussion of giving, it leads me to the One who gave first. Over the last couple of weeks, we have discussed how we, as Christians, can give in various ways. Now, let us focus in on the Ultimate Giver.

First, God created the earth. Before He created us, He created a place that we could inhabit and have dominion over. Not only that, the earth itself gives testimony of our Creator. God loves us so much that He established a residence for us that would protect and feed us; He produced it so we would have a constant reminder of Him. God Gave.

Second, God gave us life. He breathed the spirit of life into Adam and Eve; He created them in the very image of Himself.  Although, now, we are spiritual beings in a physical body, we have the characteristics of Him. We can see because He sees all things. We can hear because He hears all things. We have intellect because He knows all things. Let us never forget that all that we are, including our talents and abilities were given by God. God Gave.

Finally, God gave Christ. God sent Christ to reconcile our relationship with Him. Christ came to teach us the very nature of God, to forgive us for our sins by becoming the sacrificial Lamb of God, and to teach us how to live while we are still on earth. God does not want to be separated from us so He sent His Son to afford the opportunity to us to be united with Him again, in the land of the living as well as in eternity. Remember, God came after us Himself, in the form of Christ. God Gave.

We can NEVER OUT GIVE GOD, but we can show our appreciation with praise and worship on a continuous basis. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!

Meditate on the Scripture which presents God as the Ultimate Giver:

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16).

~Toni H.

Share Your Light

Too often we get caught up in the notion that giving only involves contributing a monetary amount, which is a part of giving, however, I want to discuss another side of giving, the giving of yourself. The giving of yourself first starts with submitting your entire being to Christ. When we do this, we surrender our will, motives, and desires to Christ. We no longer strive to create our own destinies, but we submit to the predestined calling on our lives which was created by God before we were conceived or even thought of. Once we align ourselves with our purpose in Christ we can then share our light with others.

We live in a hurting world; people need to know that there is a Savior that can set them free from the shackles and chains that keep them in bondage, the spiritually blind need vision, the sick need comfort and prayer, the rejected need to know they are accepted just the way they are, and the poor need not only food, but the “Bread of Life”! Within these instances and circumstances is where our lights need to be shined. When we share our testimonies and the unconditional love of Christ, we shed light into those dark places and expose the lies of the enemy. We must no longer let the counterfeit of the enemy steal the genuine love-nature of Christ.

How can we share our light? We can offer a smile and a word of encouragement when someone is discouraged, we can lift others up in prayer by being their intercessor, we can share our faith to those in despair, we can offer assistance to those who are less fortunate, and most importantly, we must LIVE a life that is an example of what we preach, teach, and share. Our High Priest will assist us every step of the way through the Holy Spirit. Let us share our lights now, and the victory of Christ will surely come.

Meditate on this scripture which encourages being a light unto the world:

“You are the light of the world………let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-15).

~Toni H.

The Heart of the Giver

They are in awe at the sacrifice of Christ. They are renewed by the shedding of His blood. They are moved into action by the forgiveness that is freely offered. They walk in obedience because of the love they have for Him. They aim to live their lives for the One who saved them. Who are they? They are the believers with a heart of worship!

Because so much was given, true worshipers are givers from the heart. They give not out of fear, obligation, or self-gratification, but from a willingness to please the One that saved them. So what do they, the true worshipers, give? They give everything!! They give their time to advance the kingdom of God, they use their hands to prepare meals for the hungry, they use their skills to help with church administration, they use their gifts to edify the body of Christ, they use their testimonies to win the hearts of unbelievers for Christ, and they use their finances to aid in mission trips and for the relief of the poor. They leave nothing off limits! They give themselves and their substance fully, without grudge, to the One who gave His very life out of pure love. They have true hearts of giving.  

Their giving hearts are not their own, but of one that has been renewed by the blood of Christ. Their hearts imitate the One who died for them. For Christ, the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, came not to be served, but to serve.  We all should work toward having the true heart of a giver because it shows, through our actions, that we are cooperating with the Holy Spirit to become transformed into the image of Christ. So, do you have the heart of a giver?

Meditate on this scripture which encourages presenting and submitting ourselves to the service of Christ…

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. (Romans 12: 1-2)

~Toni H.

Increasing Your Ability To Give By Financial Planning

My fellow bloggers and I here at Second Calvary Baptist Church have been discussing the topics of tithing and offering and their biblical significance to our life as Christians. We all agree on the several ideals in regards to giving which include obedience, our willingness to aid our local communities, and contributing to the church’s ministries and missions. But let us explore another facet to the subject of giving, a more practical side. Sometimes we may find ourselves in situations where we want to give more to a scholarship fund or an upcoming mission trip after we have already given our tithes. A possible solution to opening up a bigger window to give for such things may be to establish a realistic financial plan.

Establishing such a plan can increase your ability to give. Let me explain, with an example, why this is a plausible solution. I find myself, very frequently, becoming a victim of the Wal-Mart trap. I go into Wal-Mart sometimes with only an idea of what I am purchasing and end up spending way more than I anticipated. However, when I go to Wal-Mart with not only a budgeted amount to spend, but also a list of items to purchase, I find myself sticking to the plan that was created. I give this example to say this: If we create a financial plan for ourselves this will enhance our standard of living and also increase our ability to give more. If we ask the Holy Spirit to guide us, He will enable us to write a vision for our finances and make it clear and feasible.  If we map out our expenses on paper and maintain the discipline to stay committed to it, we maximize the usage of our income.

In essence, financial planning has great benefits. It’s the wisdom of God that enables us to plan with diligence which in turn, can create more opportunities for us to give to those charities, causes, scholarship funds, etc. that we hold so dear to our hearts.  

Meditate on these scriptures that encourage diligence in planning:

Who would build a tower without first sitting down and estimating the cost to be sure he has enough money to complete it?( Luke 14:28)

The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage… (Proverbs 21:5a)

~Toni H.

Above and Beyond

Most of the things we enjoy come through the hard work of another person, many of which may not receive the pay equal to the quality of their work. For example, when you go to a restaurant you are required to pay the full bill for your service. Tips are highly recommended when servers, waitresses and waiters are involved Some people don't tip. Then there are those who tip generously. In either case, there's a need and a service that takes place that too often doesn't match the actual "price tag."

Needs and services exist in the church. The people who attend need and are seeking something they cannot get in the world. And the church provides services to those who attend. What we sometimes fail to realize is that the church has a need also. The leaders of a church spend a great deal of time and effort into making sure the church operates effectively to meet the needs of the people. This is a full time ministry for some of them. Our lives are being enriched and blessed as a result.

Numbers 18:21-24 exemplifies how it takes finances to do God's work. "I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting. From now on the Israelites must not go near the tent of meeting, or they will bear the consequences of their sin and will die. It is the Levites who are to do the work at the tent of meeting and bear the responsibility for any offenses they commit against it. This is a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. They will receive no inheritance among the Israelites. Instead, I give to the Levites as their inheritance the tithes that the Israelites present as an offering to the Lord. That is why I said concerning them: ‘They will have no inheritance among the Israelites." (NIV)

Our tithes and offering directly support the work of the ministry. God commands us to tithe. It's a requirement not a suggestion. Once we respond in the area of tithing, we need to give generously in our offering. Luke 6:38 shows us that when we are obedient to the Word of God in our TITHES and OFFERINGS, then we should expect an abundance of blessings; "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”(NIV)

Please remember that both the TITHES and OFFERINGS need to be given in your church. Go above and beyond tithing and offer a blessing more than the one you received. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in the area of giving above the requirement. He will show you and you will be blessed.

~Lynn

The Heart of The Matter..... Tithing

Our Christian walk is filled with many choices and decisions, confrontation of temptations that entice us, and the ability to choose how to respond to each. A lot of what others can see often is displayed on the exterior, which also embeds our speech and actions. We are all aware of the possibility that our outer shell can be a front, just a facade of what we want others to see, while our heart may reflect a different disposition. Sometimes the difference between the two is unintentional, but it does not negate the fact that there is a difference.  However, our God is one who pays no attention to that outer shell; He pricks the intent of our hearts.

As I read the parable of the rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-27), it clearly depicted the understanding that one could very well, in their own way of thinking, give their entire being to the calling of God. It shows how we can follow all the commandments and laws with strict obedience, but we never look into our hearts to see if the most important object of God’s affection is actually, His!! When confronted by Jesus, after disclosing how closely he lived for God, the rich young ruler was asked to give everything he had away to the poor and follow Christ. The rich young ruler responded by walking away, grieving.  Now, doesn't this request go straight to the Heart of the Matter? It’s not that Jesus wanted to see the young rich ruler without wealth, He wanted him to understand that he had not given his heart completely over to God in all things, even his wealth; he lacked trust.

So the question is have you gotten to the true matters of the heart in regards to God? Is your obedience and trust in His word manifested when you have the opportunity to give, which also includes tithing? Let God know that you trust him fully and that money has no bearing on your relationship with him. The heart of the matter is that everything was given, so why not give, with a cheerful heart.

Meditate on this scripture which encourages giving from the heart:

God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need……..You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion. (2 Corinthians 9:8, 11)

~Toni H.

Are You A Steward?

You have to pay the cost to be the boss is a cliché that rings in our society today. It alludes to the fact that to gain status, prestige, and success, you have to “pay your dues." Now let us refocus this phrase to our heavenly Father. He definitely paid a cost for us, through Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, so that we may have eternal life with Him when our physical life ends. Not only that, He went much further; He created an earth for us to inhabit, talents so we can make a living for our families, and gifts to serve His kingdom. All of this for His children, and in return, our Father in heaven expects us to be excellent stewards of the gifts, talents, and blessings that He has given us.

So what is a steward? A steward can be defined as a person who manages another's property or financial affairs; one who administers anything as the agent of another or others. We came into this world with nothing, so how can anyone assume that we are not stewards for the Almighty? We have always existed in a community with many people who aid in the development of our lives and careers, so how can anyone say they are self-made? We did not give ourselves our gifts, talents, or life itself, so we are truly stewards in every sense of the word. However, stewardship goes much deeper than the managerial component. Proper stewardship shows a great appreciation for the blessings, gifts, and talents that were given and it should produce a sense of integrity and healthy pride to be called a son or daughter of the Most High God.

I challenge us as a church and as individuals, to begin to utilize our time, gifts, finances, and talents for Kingdom advancement, community enrichment, and the edification of our fellow Christian and unbelievers alike. All this will prove that we are who we say we are, it will draw others to Christ where their gifts may be used, and ultimately, it will give all honor and glory to God. We were made in the image of God, so let us respond by being grateful and honorable stewards.

Meditate on this scripture that encourages stewardship:

“Each of you should use whatever gift you received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10)

~Toni H

Faith, Obedience, and Tithing

Faith, Obedience, and Tithing

When I decided to give my life to Christ I was excited about the changes in my life that were about to occur.  I knew that there were things, people and habits that I would have to give up. The one thing I honestly didn't consider giving was tithes. With four young children and a very minimal income it didn't even cross my mind. 

It wasn't until I attended a bible study that focused on tithing that I truly understood its importance. Tithing is an act of faith and obedience. I had to learn to trust God with what He had already given me by giving it back to Him. Luke 16:10 says “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." I had been entrusted with what belonged to God. Therefore it was (is) my responsibility to make a statement of faith and become a steward of tithing.  With tithing also comes obedience. Malachi 3:10 says, "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it." It doesn't say part of or some. It says the WHOLE tithe. These scriptures tell me that no matter what my circumstances are I must trust and OBEY God’s Word.

I encourage you today to begin to trust and obey God with what He has given you. In doing so, watch how the windows of heaven pour out blessings upon your life.  When we tithe, we receive many blessings from God. "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap" (Luke 6:38). My testimony is that God's promises of blessings are true! 

~ Lynn 

Cheerful Giving

Have you ever asked someone for something and they gave it to you with an attitude?  How did you feel?  When situations like this occur it can make you feel like you wished you had never asked.  No one wants to feel like they are an inconvenience to another.  A “gift” should make the recipient happy, not sad or angry.  Giving should be an act from the heart.  2 Corinthians 9:7 states, “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver (NIV).”  God honors such acts and He blesses those who are willing to give voluntarily and with LOVE.  

Let your motives for giving be acceptable in the sight of God.  God desires what’s in your heart more than what’s in your hand. Service that is cheerful and voluntary, that is offered out of true love to Him is acceptable in his sight. God loves it because it shows a heart like his own.

"How can I be a cheerful giver?” Well, the greatest example is that of Jesus Christ who willingly gave His life that we may have ours.  God predestined for us to be conformed to the likeness of His Son (Romans 8:29). What better way for us to emulate Jesus Christ than to give selflessly the way He gave to us.  More importantly, our greatest motivation for generous and cheerful giving should be that it pleases God and that it reflects His gift of salvation to us. 

~ Lynn

Celebrating Our Legacy Of.....Faith

Faith

As we conclude the topical discussion on the legacy of African Americans and the characteristics that have contributed to the advancement of civil rights, equality, and our way of life, let us discuss the final characteristic that brings the previous ones into motion. Perseverance, Unity, and Resiliency were key components that contributed to the vision at hand. The final characteristic that holds all three of the previous traits together is Faith.

Faith can be defined as having confidence and trust in the Lord and His word without seeing the immediate evidence, but with patient endurance, relying on the timing of the Almighty with thanksgiving. It was their faith in Christ that allowed our people to persevere through the intimidation that stood before them when they pursued their civil rights. It was their faith in Christ that brought about unity to stand together as a community to boycott public transportation. It was their faith in Christ that spurred up resiliency to continue with persistence when they suffered setbacks and disappointments. Without faith, the impossible remains impossible, but with faith in Christ, anything is possible. Our journey, indeed, is a continuous one, but when we employ faith in Christ along with perseverance, unity among ourselves, and resiliency, we can rise above the ashes and prove God's word when He says that He will never leave nor forsake us.

When I think on these things, it fills me with a deep appreciation for what our previous generations have sacrificed on our behalf so we may enjoy those things that were not afforded to them. But an even greater appreciation is due to our savior Jesus for enduring the cross so that we won't experience the separation from God the Father. He took on that pain and suffering so that we will not have to. So let us be proud of our heritage and continue on to accomplish the dream that was set before us by our ancestors and by God.

Meditate on this scripture that encourages faith:

"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God". (Hebrews 12: 1-2)

~ Toni H.

Celebrating Our Legacy of .....Resiliency

 

Resiliency

Thus far, we have been reviewing the characteristics that have contributed to the legacy of our people who have and still endure struggles and hardships. The next focal point is the trait of resiliency.

Resiliency can be defined as the ability to recover readily from depression and/or adversity. It is also the ability to return to the original form after being bent and compressed. It is often mentioned that the difference between a winner and the person who gives up is the ability to try again after being knocked down and defeated. Our history is filled with these moments. How do you respond when the constitution of the land is against you? How do you respond when quality education is not an option? How do you respond when you are denied civil rights and respect? Our people responded by not giving up!! We challenged the law of the land, we marched on Washington, we staged boycotts, and we continue to cut the red tape regarding quality education. Yes, we have and still experience setbacks as a result of our quest for equality, but the resiliency that has been embedded in us will not allow us to lie down; our people have used it as fuel to drive the cause with more force.

We must continue to carry the torch and remain resilient as a culture and as individuals. Generations to come must have examples to model just as we have the generations before us to look to. Our ultimate example is Christ himself. He was persecuted, scorned, and treated unjustly, but His love for us caused Him to become resilient toward the pain he endured because He looked toward the ultimate goal of our reconciliation with God. We must never give up, but carry on the fight so we can pass the torch to the next generation.

Meditate on this scripture that encourages resiliency:

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?....No, in all things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." (Romans 8:35,37).

 

~Toni H.



Celebrating Our Legacy Of...... Unity

 

Unity 

As we continue to reflect on the accomplishments and endurance of our people, let us look further into the characteristics that have shaped the character and attitudes of their ideals. Another characteristic that has transcended through time is Unity.  

 

Unity can be defined as the absence of diversity; oneness of mind; as well as harmony and agreement. During the times of slavery, unity was the glue that held together the operation of the underground railroad. During the civil rights movement, unity allowed for successful boycotts against public transportation. Unity within our culture has the ability to strengthen our communities, establish a unified effort to overcome institutional prejudices, and allows our people to provide a corporate response to break down adversity.

 

However, during recent years, there has been a breakdown of unity within our race that greatly differs from that of the civil rights era. Selfish ambitions have ran rampant, and looking out for our fellow brothers and sisters has become an "old school" mentality.

 

Because of this gap between then and now, I want to pose two questions. First, what is your opinion to why there is a decline within our race regarding unity? Second, what are some ways in which we can continue on the course of equality, in all respects of life? While you ponder on your thoughts, consider this scripture which encourages unity:

 

"I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought".(1 Corinthians 1:10)

 

 ~Toni H. 

Celebrating Our Legacy Of.....Perseverance

 

Perseverance

As we reflect on the obstacles, setbacks, tragedies and accomplishments of our people, past and present, there are several common characteristics that they exhibited to maintain their focus on the reality of bringing to life their ideals and principles. One such characteristic is Perseverance.

Perseverance can be defined as maintaining a steady and persistent course of action in spite of seen and unforeseen difficulties. Persecution, legal segregation, and rampant injustice are just a few of the hurdles that African Americans transcended on our plight to equality in a society that deemed equivalent to an animal. In spite of these dire circumstances, God prepared and ordained several powerful people, who accepted the task with pride, to bring about justice for our people. Perseverance became a rooted quality among these individuals that allowed them to stand, speak, and conquer all odds when it seemed as if the entire world was against them. Because of their ability to not become intimidated or discouraged, we are able to reap the harvest of equality cultivated by their blood, sweat and tears.  

When I think on these things, I know without a shadow of a doubt, that the Spirit of the Lord was upon them and within them. I think of how Christ persevered when He carried His own cross all the way to Calvary, despising the shame and insults. He never thought of Himself, but of those that He loved, us! His Spirit was indeed with our ancestors and is currently with us. We should be honoured that we are part of the family of Christ, as well as a legacy of people who persevered through tremendous hardships to accomplish a brighter future for generations to come.

Meditate on this scripture that encourages perseverance:

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed!! (2 Corinthians 4:8-9).

~Toni H.



Renewal is a Process

One thing that I have learned and will continue to manifest in my life is this: we cannot assign other people to fill the void that was created by and for God, through Christ Jesus. When we do this, we set ourselves and others up for failure. Coming from someone who has always had an issue with trust, I know in my spirit that Jesus is the only one who will never let me down. However, it takes a renewed mind to comprehend this and to walk it out. So as my mind continues the renewing process, I can see it catching up with my spirit which already has the truth of God within it. The reality of a renewed mind becomes visible each day. Sometimes we don't see our change immediately, but it is there. Often times it creeps up through our responses and actions that would not have been the norm for us. We must remember that trust is not something the world can offer, but it is something that Jesus can offer and keep!!!

Stay encouraged....
~Toni