An African proverb from Tanzania says, "Without craziness, one does not live." It's not a reference to mental illness, arrogance or the spirit of fear. It's a reference to the celebration of life.
Recently I bought a comedy DVD hoping to celebrate some Tanzanian-like craziness. My hopes were soon dashed; instead I saw the irrational mind of Satan. In one skit network television was critiqued for failing to hire diverse people. However, from the start of the DVD until I cut it off it spewed sexism, racism and religious hatred.
Comedians are supposed to make us laugh while teaching us something about human nature. Everyone shouldn't be a teacher. James 3:1-2 Amplified Bible says, "Not many [of you] should become teachers (self-constituted censors and reprovers of others), my brethren, for you know that we [teachers] will be judged by a higher standard and with greater severity [than other people; thus we assume the greater accountability and the more condemnation]. For we all often stumble and fall and offend in many things. And if anyone does not offend in speech [never says the wrong things], he is a fully developed character and a perfect man, able to control his whole body and to curb his entire nature."
God does not give mistreated people the right to mistreat others. Levitico 19:18 Biblia Bilingue Version Reina-Valera 1960 dice, "No te vengaras, ni guardaras rencor a los hijos de tu pueblo, sino amaras a tu projimo como a ti mismo. Yo Jehova." Leviticus 19:18 Bilingual Bible New King James Version says, "You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord."
The Japanese invented DVDs. Technology can be used for good or for evil. What are some good comedy DVDs? Write to:
Michele F. Jackson
P. O. Box 2106
Woodbridge, Virginia 22195
Follow Michele F. Jackson on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/michelelove30.
The Chinese invented paper money. Diverse people should be on network television and everywhere earning money for doing good deeds. God made females and males of a wide variety of races, ethnicity, abilities and other characteristics to do good.
Being good to people brings prosperity. Becoming intimate with the Word of God teaches us how to treat people well. Joshua 1:8 Amplified Bible says, "This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success."
John Maxwell, minister, leadership expert, speaker, author and entrepreneur, writes in the May 2013 Success magazine article, "Taking the Leap Is it time for your big, bold venture?," ""Between 70 percent and 90 percent of decisions not to repeat a purchase of anything are not about product or price. They are about some dimension of service," author and former Burger King CEO Barry Gibbons once noted. . . . Your understanding of people will help you build your business. Your treatment of people will help you build your business. If you can build relationships, your reputation will help you build your business."
Showing posts with label Money. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Money. Show all posts
Monday, June 24, 2013
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Money and Friends
"In James 4:3, the Bible says we pray for blessings and don't get them because we've asked with evil, selfish motives. We want the blessing to be for ourselves exclusively. Instead, let's ask God to bless us so we can be a greater blessing. We might say, "God, bless me. Do something amazing in my finances. Get me to the point where I can buy somebody a car. Get me to the point, God, where if need be, I could rent an apartment for someone who doesn't have one and pay the rent for a year until she gets on her feet." Wouldn't that be wonderful? Or you might pray, "Help me, God, to be able to buy furniture for a family who doesn't have any. Help me be able to take them to a furniture store and just say, 'Here's your budget; pick out a house full of furniture.'" writes international, practical Bible teacher Joyce Meyer in her book Joy Redefined Loving Others.
God is not against people having pleasure. God desires that creyentes (believers) give and receive pleasure. George Washington Carver worked for Booker T. Washington at Tuskegee Institute. They were both committed to helping people, especially African Americans. Washington died before Carver. Carver gave one year's salary to Booker T. Washington's memorial fund. Carver says about this generous gift, "It was a sacrifice in one way but a blessed privilege in another."
Unbelievers recognize the pleasure of giving. Meng was the prime minister of King Qin in ancient China. Meng sent his advisor Feng out to collect debts. Feng forgave all the loans of villagers saying he was doing it on orders from Meng. At first Meng was mad, but one year later Meng was merry for Meng had trouble on the job and had to return to his home village. People were glad to see him and welcomed him. Meng praised Feng.
Use money to make friends. Jesus Christ says in Luke 16:9 Biblia Bilingue Version Reina-Valera 1960, "Y yo os digo: Ganad amigos por medio de las riquezas injustas, para que cuando estas falten, os reciban en las moradas eternas." "And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home" (Bilingual Bible New King James Version.) Luke 16:9 New Living Translation Bible says, "Here’s the lesson: Use your worldly resources to benefit others and make friends. Then, when your earthly possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an eternal home."
What are some compassionate, creative and committed ways you have used money to make friends?
God is not against people having pleasure. God desires that creyentes (believers) give and receive pleasure. George Washington Carver worked for Booker T. Washington at Tuskegee Institute. They were both committed to helping people, especially African Americans. Washington died before Carver. Carver gave one year's salary to Booker T. Washington's memorial fund. Carver says about this generous gift, "It was a sacrifice in one way but a blessed privilege in another."
Unbelievers recognize the pleasure of giving. Meng was the prime minister of King Qin in ancient China. Meng sent his advisor Feng out to collect debts. Feng forgave all the loans of villagers saying he was doing it on orders from Meng. At first Meng was mad, but one year later Meng was merry for Meng had trouble on the job and had to return to his home village. People were glad to see him and welcomed him. Meng praised Feng.
Use money to make friends. Jesus Christ says in Luke 16:9 Biblia Bilingue Version Reina-Valera 1960, "Y yo os digo: Ganad amigos por medio de las riquezas injustas, para que cuando estas falten, os reciban en las moradas eternas." "And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home" (Bilingual Bible New King James Version.) Luke 16:9 New Living Translation Bible says, "Here’s the lesson: Use your worldly resources to benefit others and make friends. Then, when your earthly possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an eternal home."
What are some compassionate, creative and committed ways you have used money to make friends?
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Money and Marriage
"When Joe, 64, a computer professional in Massachusetts, married for the first time, he was 31 and very in love.
"She was attracted to me because I had structure; I was attracted to her because she was a lot of fun," said Joe.
He had noticed some financial red flags while they were dating: She always carried a credit card balance and liked buying expensive gifts for people. Still, he said, he wasn't fazed: "I never thought about it, because it wasn't my problem."
After they married, though, his new wife's spending habits became Joe's problem.
"She could drain a checking account in no time," he recalled. Joe describes himself as an avid saver, and his and his wife's financial differences became the cause of bad fights. "I couldn't stand being broke all the time and really struggling to pay the bills, and she didn't like the restriction of me saying we can't afford this," he said. 'We kind of drove each other into corners. She became more irresponsible and I became more rigid." Joe and his wife divorced after three years, largely because of financial differences," writes Stacey Vanek Smith in the March 26, 2013 The New York Times article "Money Talk Before Marriage A Tip You Can't Disparage."
Judas Iscariot divorced Jesus Christ in about three years also, and money seems to have played a major role. Judas, one of Jesus' original 12 apostles, didn't approve of Jesus' money management methods. In the Bible book of Matthew chapter 26 after a woman pours an alabaster flask of very expensive perfume on Jesus' head, Judas divorces Jesus.
"An archaic and infrequently used name for the Wednesday before Easter is "Spy Wednesday", named for Judas' becoming a spy for the Sanhedrin," writes Joe Carter, editor for The Gospel Coalition, in his March 25, 2013, article "9 Things You Should Know About Holy Week." For 30 pieces of silver Judas tells the Sanhedrin where to capture Jesus. Once Jesus is captured, later in the week on Friday Jesus is crucified. On Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead, having paid the sin debt for each person who will receive Him into their life for eternity.
The Chinese invented paper money which they originally called "flying money" because it was so light and easily flew out of people's hand. The generosity of Jesus frustrated and disappointed Judas. Money seemed to fly out of Jesus' hand. Judas wanted enough on hand for his desires, including theft.
An African proverb says, "Work is good, provided you do not forget to live." Jesus sees money as a tool to live well and to do good. Jesus says in Luke 16:9 Amplified Bible, "And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions), so that when it fails, they [those you have favored] may receive and welcome you into the everlasting habitations (dwellings)."
The more money possessed, the more responsibility to do good. The Complete Jewish Bible says in 1 Timothy 6:17-19, "As for those who do have riches in this present world, charge them not to be proud and not to let their hopes rest on the uncertainties of riches but to rest their hopes on God, who richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment. Charge them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, to be generous and ready to share. In this way they will treasure up for themselves a good foundation for the future, so that they may lay hold of the real life."
Conflict over differences in the management of money and sex are among the top reasons husbands and wives do not have un matrimonio de pasión y sorpresa and some end up seeking un divorcio. Instead of allowing differences to divide, why not ask God to help you find a way to diversity in unity? God the Son Jesus Christ and God the Father are different and unified. Jesus Christ prayed for believers in John 17:21 English Standard Version Bible, "That they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me."
What are some ways Jesus Christ has brought diversity in unity to your marriage or your singleness?
"She was attracted to me because I had structure; I was attracted to her because she was a lot of fun," said Joe.
He had noticed some financial red flags while they were dating: She always carried a credit card balance and liked buying expensive gifts for people. Still, he said, he wasn't fazed: "I never thought about it, because it wasn't my problem."
After they married, though, his new wife's spending habits became Joe's problem.
"She could drain a checking account in no time," he recalled. Joe describes himself as an avid saver, and his and his wife's financial differences became the cause of bad fights. "I couldn't stand being broke all the time and really struggling to pay the bills, and she didn't like the restriction of me saying we can't afford this," he said. 'We kind of drove each other into corners. She became more irresponsible and I became more rigid." Joe and his wife divorced after three years, largely because of financial differences," writes Stacey Vanek Smith in the March 26, 2013 The New York Times article "Money Talk Before Marriage A Tip You Can't Disparage."
Judas Iscariot divorced Jesus Christ in about three years also, and money seems to have played a major role. Judas, one of Jesus' original 12 apostles, didn't approve of Jesus' money management methods. In the Bible book of Matthew chapter 26 after a woman pours an alabaster flask of very expensive perfume on Jesus' head, Judas divorces Jesus.
"An archaic and infrequently used name for the Wednesday before Easter is "Spy Wednesday", named for Judas' becoming a spy for the Sanhedrin," writes Joe Carter, editor for The Gospel Coalition, in his March 25, 2013, article "9 Things You Should Know About Holy Week." For 30 pieces of silver Judas tells the Sanhedrin where to capture Jesus. Once Jesus is captured, later in the week on Friday Jesus is crucified. On Sunday, Jesus rose from the dead, having paid the sin debt for each person who will receive Him into their life for eternity.
The Chinese invented paper money which they originally called "flying money" because it was so light and easily flew out of people's hand. The generosity of Jesus frustrated and disappointed Judas. Money seemed to fly out of Jesus' hand. Judas wanted enough on hand for his desires, including theft.
An African proverb says, "Work is good, provided you do not forget to live." Jesus sees money as a tool to live well and to do good. Jesus says in Luke 16:9 Amplified Bible, "And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions), so that when it fails, they [those you have favored] may receive and welcome you into the everlasting habitations (dwellings)."
The more money possessed, the more responsibility to do good. The Complete Jewish Bible says in 1 Timothy 6:17-19, "As for those who do have riches in this present world, charge them not to be proud and not to let their hopes rest on the uncertainties of riches but to rest their hopes on God, who richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment. Charge them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, to be generous and ready to share. In this way they will treasure up for themselves a good foundation for the future, so that they may lay hold of the real life."
Conflict over differences in the management of money and sex are among the top reasons husbands and wives do not have un matrimonio de pasión y sorpresa and some end up seeking un divorcio. Instead of allowing differences to divide, why not ask God to help you find a way to diversity in unity? God the Son Jesus Christ and God the Father are different and unified. Jesus Christ prayed for believers in John 17:21 English Standard Version Bible, "That they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me."
What are some ways Jesus Christ has brought diversity in unity to your marriage or your singleness?
Friday, February 15, 2013
Awesome Aging
God made Church discipline to be appropriate at times. God did not design Church discipline to be eternal. God through the Apostle Paul asked the Corinthian Church to ask a man who had sexual relations with his father's wife to leave the Church (1 Corinthians 5.) Later Paul encouraged the Church to welcome him back into their group.
The Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 2:5-8 Amplified Bible, "But if someone [the one among you who committed incest] has caused [all this] grief and pain, he has caused it not to me, but in some measure, not to put it too severely, [he has distressed] all of you. For such a one this censure by the majority [which he has received is] sufficient [punishment]. So [instead of further rebuke, now] you should rather turn and [graciously] forgive and comfort and encourage [him], to keep him from being overwhelmed by excessive sorrow and despair. I therefore beg you to reinstate him in your affections and assure him of your love for him"
Fashion Designer John Galliano was dismissed in 2011 from the house of Dior after a drunken party in a Parisian cafe that included him saying, "I love Hitler," says The New York Times in the February 14, 2013, article "Tentative Step By Fallen Star To Come Back."
Jesus Christ is for a good party with alcohol. He changed water to wine well after a lot of wine was consumed at a wedding feast in Cana of Galilee, Israel (John 2.) However, drunkenness is dumb and false joy. Ephesians 5:18 Amplified Bible says, "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but ever be filled and stimulated with the [Holy] Spirit."
"Celebrare ante el Rey.(Celebrate before the King)," sings Abel Zavala in his song "Unanimes" on the album Jesus mi fiel amigo. What about churches having more praise parties with humor, good music and other celebrations of life that are fun? Read my article, "Heart Disease, Depression and Christianity."
And after a good praise party, the mood is set for much, hot and spicy marital sex for couples of all ages. Sexual love doesn't have to end when we reach a certain age. Jack, a character in the romantic comedy Don Juan DeMarco, says to Marilyn, his wife of more than 30 years, "You have very, very beautiful eyes." Marilyn comments, "Come on. You know I have to go upstairs, and um I'm going to take my calcium so my bones don't break into little pieces, my aspirin so my heart doesn't clog up, my Metamucil so I don't get colon cancer, and of course my estrogen to convince my body that I'm still 23." Jack responds, "Come here." They kiss, and marital, senior sex ensues.
Abraham also enjoyed marital, senior sex. Abraham had his first child at 86 and seven more stretching well into his 100s.
In God's eyes age is just a number not a reason to stop living a full, enjoyable life advancing God's Kingdom through relationship building.
If you are not making frequent delicious with your spouse, contact a Bible teacher, Bible counselor, Christian sex therapist and/or Christian marriage counselor. God designed sexual relations for spouses to give and to receive enjoyment from each other while strengthening their marriage. Whether one screams out in passion, silently savors sex or is somewhere in between, marital sex is made for merriment. Solomon writes in Proverbs 5 The Message Bible, "Enjoy the wife you married as a young man! Lovely as an angel, beautiful as a rose—don’t ever quit taking delight in her body."
Sex at 60 and beyond may not be the same as sex at 25, but then again it may be even better. Moses was married, and he was also in his right mind and healthy body up to death at 120. Imagine the sexual expertise and possibilities!
Herbert and Zelmyra Fisher of North Carolina have been married 85 years (86 in May 2013) and hold the Guinness World Record for the longest marriage of a living couple. Zelmyra is 101 years old. Herbert is 104 years old. They have 5 children, 10 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild -- another good testimony against abortion and for life, legacy and immortality. Please read my article, "Big is Beautiful."
How did the Fishers stay married so long? They are Christians who are good lovers and good friends. Solomon's Shulammite wife says about Solomon in Song of Solomon 5:16 New Living Translation Bible, "His mouth is sweetness itself, he is desirable in every way. Such, O women of Jerusalem, is my lover, my friend."
Not only do married people need friends, so do singles. Fashion Designer Oscar de la Renta, who is 80 years old, and others are helping Galliano reestablish himself in the fashion business after working on his alcoholism and attitude.
The New York Times in the February 14, 2013, article "Tentative Step By Fallen Star To Come Back" reports about Galliano, "He was punished because of what he said, and I think deservedly so," Mr. Foxman said. "But if he's punished for the rest of his life, he will become an anti-Semite."" Mr. Foxman is Abraham H. Foxman, the national director of the Anti-Defamation League.
Oscar de la Renta is well past the American traditional retirement age. Jack decides not to retire and to continue his psychiatry profession. Brazilian writer Paul Coelho writes in the introduction to his book, The Alchemist, which has sold more than two million copies and been translated in 52 languages, "What is a personal calling? It is God's blessing, it is the path that God chose for you here on Earth. Whenever we do something that fills us with enthusiasm, we are following our legend."
Age is not a barrier to following our legend. Coelho switched careers in his 40s to become a writer, and he is still writing in his 60s.
We do not have to do the same profession all of our adult life. The apostles Peter, Andrew, James and John were fishermen who became ministers.
Many people are missing their legend for multiple reasons. The ultimate reason is that they are refusing to listen to and let God lead their lives.
February 10, 2013, marked the beginning of the Chinese New Year. What about celebrating a new release of self-centeredness and embracing God's plans for our lives without any reservations?
God is also for us taking frequent breaks from the regular work routine and resting and celebrating. In the Old Testament God set-up feasts and Sabbaths that lasted sometimes more than one day. It would be good to separate Abraham Lincoln's birthday from President's Day. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, encouraging border states to outlaw slavery, helped push through Congress the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which finally freed all the slaves nationwide in December 1865, led the United States through the American Civil War preserving the Union and battled periods of depression.
Black History isn't just for or by black people. No people's history is just for and by them. Collaboration has been and always will be part of the creative process of bettering the human race.
Paisa (Money) is also a necessary part of the process. People can be trained to the highest, hardworking and still broke. Bucks are needed to boost businesses and other entrepreneurial efforts off the ground. Read my article "Faith, Fear and Japanese Americans." People who were in the bottom 20 percent of income earners in their societies, but are now in the top 20 percent, please share about the financial assistance you received during your climb. Lovers are generous givers.
"I am on a mission, a mission of love," sings Donna Summer in her song, "Love is the Healer."
1 John 4:16 Amplified Bible says, "And we know (understand, recognize, are conscious of, by observation and by experience) and believe (adhere to and put faith in and rely on) the love God cherishes for us. God is love, and he who dwells and continues in love dwells and continues in God, and God dwells and continues in him."
The Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 2:5-8 Amplified Bible, "But if someone [the one among you who committed incest] has caused [all this] grief and pain, he has caused it not to me, but in some measure, not to put it too severely, [he has distressed] all of you. For such a one this censure by the majority [which he has received is] sufficient [punishment]. So [instead of further rebuke, now] you should rather turn and [graciously] forgive and comfort and encourage [him], to keep him from being overwhelmed by excessive sorrow and despair. I therefore beg you to reinstate him in your affections and assure him of your love for him"
Fashion Designer John Galliano was dismissed in 2011 from the house of Dior after a drunken party in a Parisian cafe that included him saying, "I love Hitler," says The New York Times in the February 14, 2013, article "Tentative Step By Fallen Star To Come Back."
Jesus Christ is for a good party with alcohol. He changed water to wine well after a lot of wine was consumed at a wedding feast in Cana of Galilee, Israel (John 2.) However, drunkenness is dumb and false joy. Ephesians 5:18 Amplified Bible says, "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but ever be filled and stimulated with the [Holy] Spirit."
"Celebrare ante el Rey.(Celebrate before the King)," sings Abel Zavala in his song "Unanimes" on the album Jesus mi fiel amigo. What about churches having more praise parties with humor, good music and other celebrations of life that are fun? Read my article, "Heart Disease, Depression and Christianity."
And after a good praise party, the mood is set for much, hot and spicy marital sex for couples of all ages. Sexual love doesn't have to end when we reach a certain age. Jack, a character in the romantic comedy Don Juan DeMarco, says to Marilyn, his wife of more than 30 years, "You have very, very beautiful eyes." Marilyn comments, "Come on. You know I have to go upstairs, and um I'm going to take my calcium so my bones don't break into little pieces, my aspirin so my heart doesn't clog up, my Metamucil so I don't get colon cancer, and of course my estrogen to convince my body that I'm still 23." Jack responds, "Come here." They kiss, and marital, senior sex ensues.
Abraham also enjoyed marital, senior sex. Abraham had his first child at 86 and seven more stretching well into his 100s.
In God's eyes age is just a number not a reason to stop living a full, enjoyable life advancing God's Kingdom through relationship building.
If you are not making frequent delicious with your spouse, contact a Bible teacher, Bible counselor, Christian sex therapist and/or Christian marriage counselor. God designed sexual relations for spouses to give and to receive enjoyment from each other while strengthening their marriage. Whether one screams out in passion, silently savors sex or is somewhere in between, marital sex is made for merriment. Solomon writes in Proverbs 5 The Message Bible, "Enjoy the wife you married as a young man! Lovely as an angel, beautiful as a rose—don’t ever quit taking delight in her body."
Sex at 60 and beyond may not be the same as sex at 25, but then again it may be even better. Moses was married, and he was also in his right mind and healthy body up to death at 120. Imagine the sexual expertise and possibilities!
Herbert and Zelmyra Fisher of North Carolina have been married 85 years (86 in May 2013) and hold the Guinness World Record for the longest marriage of a living couple. Zelmyra is 101 years old. Herbert is 104 years old. They have 5 children, 10 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild -- another good testimony against abortion and for life, legacy and immortality. Please read my article, "Big is Beautiful."
How did the Fishers stay married so long? They are Christians who are good lovers and good friends. Solomon's Shulammite wife says about Solomon in Song of Solomon 5:16 New Living Translation Bible, "His mouth is sweetness itself, he is desirable in every way. Such, O women of Jerusalem, is my lover, my friend."
Not only do married people need friends, so do singles. Fashion Designer Oscar de la Renta, who is 80 years old, and others are helping Galliano reestablish himself in the fashion business after working on his alcoholism and attitude.
The New York Times in the February 14, 2013, article "Tentative Step By Fallen Star To Come Back" reports about Galliano, "He was punished because of what he said, and I think deservedly so," Mr. Foxman said. "But if he's punished for the rest of his life, he will become an anti-Semite."" Mr. Foxman is Abraham H. Foxman, the national director of the Anti-Defamation League.
Oscar de la Renta is well past the American traditional retirement age. Jack decides not to retire and to continue his psychiatry profession. Brazilian writer Paul Coelho writes in the introduction to his book, The Alchemist, which has sold more than two million copies and been translated in 52 languages, "What is a personal calling? It is God's blessing, it is the path that God chose for you here on Earth. Whenever we do something that fills us with enthusiasm, we are following our legend."
Age is not a barrier to following our legend. Coelho switched careers in his 40s to become a writer, and he is still writing in his 60s.
We do not have to do the same profession all of our adult life. The apostles Peter, Andrew, James and John were fishermen who became ministers.
Many people are missing their legend for multiple reasons. The ultimate reason is that they are refusing to listen to and let God lead their lives.
February 10, 2013, marked the beginning of the Chinese New Year. What about celebrating a new release of self-centeredness and embracing God's plans for our lives without any reservations?
God is also for us taking frequent breaks from the regular work routine and resting and celebrating. In the Old Testament God set-up feasts and Sabbaths that lasted sometimes more than one day. It would be good to separate Abraham Lincoln's birthday from President's Day. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, encouraging border states to outlaw slavery, helped push through Congress the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, which finally freed all the slaves nationwide in December 1865, led the United States through the American Civil War preserving the Union and battled periods of depression.
Black History isn't just for or by black people. No people's history is just for and by them. Collaboration has been and always will be part of the creative process of bettering the human race.
Paisa (Money) is also a necessary part of the process. People can be trained to the highest, hardworking and still broke. Bucks are needed to boost businesses and other entrepreneurial efforts off the ground. Read my article "Faith, Fear and Japanese Americans." People who were in the bottom 20 percent of income earners in their societies, but are now in the top 20 percent, please share about the financial assistance you received during your climb. Lovers are generous givers.
"I am on a mission, a mission of love," sings Donna Summer in her song, "Love is the Healer."
1 John 4:16 Amplified Bible says, "And we know (understand, recognize, are conscious of, by observation and by experience) and believe (adhere to and put faith in and rely on) the love God cherishes for us. God is love, and he who dwells and continues in love dwells and continues in God, and God dwells and continues in him."
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Faith, Fear and Japanese Americans
"Fear is a disease that eats away at logic and makes man inhuman." -- Marian Anderson, singer in eight languages and civil rights advocate
When Japan bombed American ships in Pearl Harbor not only was World War II kicked off in the United States of America, the US kicked out of their homes about 110,000 Japanese Americans living on America's west coast and forced them into War Relocation Camps.
Democratic President Franklin Delano Roosevelt authorized Executive Order 9066 on February 19, 1942, which told local military officials to designate "military areas" as "exclusion zones" from which "any or all persons may be excluded."
Sometimes all three branches of American government, executive, congressional and judicial, fail to protect its citizens and their constitutional rights. In 1944 the US Supreme Court upheld Executive Order 9066.
Japanese American Gordon Hirabayashi refused to go to the War Relocation Camps along with other revolutionaries. Fred Korematsu said, "If you have the feeling that something is wrong, don't be afraid to speak up." Hirabayashi, Korematsu and others were instrumental in bringing cases to the Supreme Court that addressed the injustice of putting Americans in prison because of their race. Hirabayahsi didn't realize what a fight was ahead for Japanese Americans to live in America with their civil rights enforced. He says, "We had Constitutional rights. I didn't think anything could happen to us. We had a rude awakening."
"Check your speakers. This ain't a self-help song or another makeover song but how He made me over. You dig. I like me," sings award-winning Gospel singer Kirk Franklin in his song, "I Like Me" with Da TRUTH. Franklin is also a songwriter, record producer, music director and author. Please leave an on-line comment naming songs by Asians similar to Franklin's and Da TRUTH's "I Like Me."
Some people live their whole lives with a No es posible attitude, but those who know and trust God " . . . are bold as a lion" (Proverbs 28:1). International Bible Teacher Joyce Meyer says that courage is not the absence of fear, but courage is doing things afraid.
We can ask God to marry and protect us like Ruth asked Boaz to marry her. The book of Ruth 3:7-9 Amplified Bible says, "And when Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then [Ruth] came softly and uncovered his feet and lay down. At midnight the man was startled, and he turned over, and behold, a woman lay at his feet! And he said, Who are you? And she answered, I am Ruth your maidservant. Spread your wing [of protection] over your maidservant, for you are a next of kin."
God's ways are often not our ways. After we receive the marriage vow of complete forgiveness of all our sins, eternal life, eternal relationship and eternal, extravagant love from God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost (not polygamy, but 1 x 1 X 1 =1), sometimes we are madly in love with our Husband, God, some times we are just mad with Him. It is not always asan (easy) being sadi-suda (married) to someone perfect.
The Perfect One is patient, and He is developing a patient spouse able to spread the true Kingdom of God globally. Proverbs 25:15 Amplified Bible says, "By long forbearance and calmness of spirit a judge or ruler is persuaded, and soft speech breaks down the most bonelike resistance." Proverbs 25:15 Wycliffe Bible says, "A prince shall be made soft by patience; and a soft tongue shall break hardness." Proverbs 25:15 Contemporary English Version says, "Patience and gentle talk can convince a ruler and overcome any problem."
The fight for Japanese-American justice took from the 1940s until 1988 when Congress passed and Republican President Ronald Reagan signed legislation which apologized for the internment and said that the government's actions were based on "race prejudice, war hysteria, and a failure of political leadership." The US government eventually dispersed more than $1.6 billion in reparations to Japanese Americans interned and their heirs. Each citizen who had been interned was awarded $20,000. Please leave an on-line comment discussing: Should African Americans receive reparations because of African American slavery in the US? What about the unborn once Roe v. Wade legalizing unlimited abortion is overturned? Gospel singer Fred Hammond is an abortion survivor. Read his story and more in my article, "Thoughts About Abortion." If you received the $20,000 internment payment, please share what you spent it on.
Money matters. Money is not God. 1 Timothy 6:10 English Standard Bible says, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs."
Poverty does not equal purity. Money is a tool. A Spanish word for cash is efectivo. Proverbs 10:15 Contemporary English Version says, "Great wealth can be a fortress, but poverty is no protection at all." Brian Tracy says in his book, No Excuses! The Power of Self-Discipline 21 Ways To Achieve Lasting Happiness And Success, that the top 20 percent of people in America earn and control 80 percent of the assets; he also says that these 20 percent people also started in the bottom 20 percent of income earners and practiced certain principles to climb from the bottom 20 percent to the top 20 percent. If you are a top 20 percent person, share some of your success principles by leaving an on-line comment.
Please also leave an on-line comment answering the question, "How is America experiencing the ramifications of the Japanese internment, African American slavery, abortion and similar evils today?"
When Japan bombed American ships in Pearl Harbor not only was World War II kicked off in the United States of America, the US kicked out of their homes about 110,000 Japanese Americans living on America's west coast and forced them into War Relocation Camps.
Democratic President Franklin Delano Roosevelt authorized Executive Order 9066 on February 19, 1942, which told local military officials to designate "military areas" as "exclusion zones" from which "any or all persons may be excluded."
Sometimes all three branches of American government, executive, congressional and judicial, fail to protect its citizens and their constitutional rights. In 1944 the US Supreme Court upheld Executive Order 9066.
Japanese American Gordon Hirabayashi refused to go to the War Relocation Camps along with other revolutionaries. Fred Korematsu said, "If you have the feeling that something is wrong, don't be afraid to speak up." Hirabayashi, Korematsu and others were instrumental in bringing cases to the Supreme Court that addressed the injustice of putting Americans in prison because of their race. Hirabayahsi didn't realize what a fight was ahead for Japanese Americans to live in America with their civil rights enforced. He says, "We had Constitutional rights. I didn't think anything could happen to us. We had a rude awakening."
"Check your speakers. This ain't a self-help song or another makeover song but how He made me over. You dig. I like me," sings award-winning Gospel singer Kirk Franklin in his song, "I Like Me" with Da TRUTH. Franklin is also a songwriter, record producer, music director and author. Please leave an on-line comment naming songs by Asians similar to Franklin's and Da TRUTH's "I Like Me."
Some people live their whole lives with a No es posible attitude, but those who know and trust God " . . . are bold as a lion" (Proverbs 28:1). International Bible Teacher Joyce Meyer says that courage is not the absence of fear, but courage is doing things afraid.
We can ask God to marry and protect us like Ruth asked Boaz to marry her. The book of Ruth 3:7-9 Amplified Bible says, "And when Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain. Then [Ruth] came softly and uncovered his feet and lay down. At midnight the man was startled, and he turned over, and behold, a woman lay at his feet! And he said, Who are you? And she answered, I am Ruth your maidservant. Spread your wing [of protection] over your maidservant, for you are a next of kin."
God's ways are often not our ways. After we receive the marriage vow of complete forgiveness of all our sins, eternal life, eternal relationship and eternal, extravagant love from God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost (not polygamy, but 1 x 1 X 1 =1), sometimes we are madly in love with our Husband, God, some times we are just mad with Him. It is not always asan (easy) being sadi-suda (married) to someone perfect.
The Perfect One is patient, and He is developing a patient spouse able to spread the true Kingdom of God globally. Proverbs 25:15 Amplified Bible says, "By long forbearance and calmness of spirit a judge or ruler is persuaded, and soft speech breaks down the most bonelike resistance." Proverbs 25:15 Wycliffe Bible says, "A prince shall be made soft by patience; and a soft tongue shall break hardness." Proverbs 25:15 Contemporary English Version says, "Patience and gentle talk can convince a ruler and overcome any problem."
The fight for Japanese-American justice took from the 1940s until 1988 when Congress passed and Republican President Ronald Reagan signed legislation which apologized for the internment and said that the government's actions were based on "race prejudice, war hysteria, and a failure of political leadership." The US government eventually dispersed more than $1.6 billion in reparations to Japanese Americans interned and their heirs. Each citizen who had been interned was awarded $20,000. Please leave an on-line comment discussing: Should African Americans receive reparations because of African American slavery in the US? What about the unborn once Roe v. Wade legalizing unlimited abortion is overturned? Gospel singer Fred Hammond is an abortion survivor. Read his story and more in my article, "Thoughts About Abortion." If you received the $20,000 internment payment, please share what you spent it on.
Money matters. Money is not God. 1 Timothy 6:10 English Standard Bible says, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs."
Poverty does not equal purity. Money is a tool. A Spanish word for cash is efectivo. Proverbs 10:15 Contemporary English Version says, "Great wealth can be a fortress, but poverty is no protection at all." Brian Tracy says in his book, No Excuses! The Power of Self-Discipline 21 Ways To Achieve Lasting Happiness And Success, that the top 20 percent of people in America earn and control 80 percent of the assets; he also says that these 20 percent people also started in the bottom 20 percent of income earners and practiced certain principles to climb from the bottom 20 percent to the top 20 percent. If you are a top 20 percent person, share some of your success principles by leaving an on-line comment.
Please also leave an on-line comment answering the question, "How is America experiencing the ramifications of the Japanese internment, African American slavery, abortion and similar evils today?"
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Wealth and Relationships
When we are in love we move obstacles to learn everything we can about our loved one. God likes to be chased and loved in a certain, intense way. God likes for us to communicate with Him constantly and to read, study, mediate and live His Word, the Bible. Living the Bible includes loving God and people using and enjoying the material world God created without being consumed by it.
To be materially rich can be used for good, but many can't handle it and still keep a red-hot love affair going with God and people. Being poor is a problem because life can become consumed in survival leaving little time to nurture relationships with God and people. Middle class may be the balance most thrive in love of God and people while having material needs and many wants met. Agur writes in Proverbs 30:8-9 Amplified Bible, "Remove far from me falsehood and lies; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, Lest I be full and deny You and say, Who is the Lord? Or lest I be poor and steal, and so profane the name of my God."
Wealth is not wicked. Make sure that God has developed you to handle wealth. Nice things need a lot of attention. Denzel Washington is a rich man who works very, very hard and can handle his wealth in a way that permits his relationship with God and people to thrive. In addition to an Oscar-laden acting career spanning three decades Washington is also a Christian who has been married to Pauletta Washington for nearly 30 years. This couple has four children, John David, Katia, Malcolm and Olivia, who they taught to say their prayers every night and who they encouraged to discover their-God-given purpose by annually writing down five things they might want to do or be when they grow up.
If you can be rich in a vibrant relationship with God and people and in material wealth like Washington, praise God and keep on being a good and faithful servant. If not, praise God and keep on being a good and faithful servant in the way God has empowered you to be.
What impact has material things had on your relationship with God and people?
To be materially rich can be used for good, but many can't handle it and still keep a red-hot love affair going with God and people. Being poor is a problem because life can become consumed in survival leaving little time to nurture relationships with God and people. Middle class may be the balance most thrive in love of God and people while having material needs and many wants met. Agur writes in Proverbs 30:8-9 Amplified Bible, "Remove far from me falsehood and lies; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, Lest I be full and deny You and say, Who is the Lord? Or lest I be poor and steal, and so profane the name of my God."
Wealth is not wicked. Make sure that God has developed you to handle wealth. Nice things need a lot of attention. Denzel Washington is a rich man who works very, very hard and can handle his wealth in a way that permits his relationship with God and people to thrive. In addition to an Oscar-laden acting career spanning three decades Washington is also a Christian who has been married to Pauletta Washington for nearly 30 years. This couple has four children, John David, Katia, Malcolm and Olivia, who they taught to say their prayers every night and who they encouraged to discover their-God-given purpose by annually writing down five things they might want to do or be when they grow up.
If you can be rich in a vibrant relationship with God and people and in material wealth like Washington, praise God and keep on being a good and faithful servant. If not, praise God and keep on being a good and faithful servant in the way God has empowered you to be.
What impact has material things had on your relationship with God and people?
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