The Test

I mentioned in my last post that we typically have a test before we have a testimony. We sometimes get caught up in the test and can’t see our way out of it. We are overwhelmed by our problems because we don’t see the solution. We see the obstacles, but don’t see our way around them. Sometimes, the test is really just a matter of perspective. I’m not saying your problems aren’t real. I’m not saying that the consequences aren’t difficult. What I am saying is there is a way out. There is a testimony on the other side, if you pass the test.

Testimony

Growing up in a Southern Baptist church, I always looked forward to testimony service. It was the one time besides announcements and “the welcome” that the members got the mic. Depending on who got the mic, determined how entertaining the service would be that day. You never knew what people were going to thank God for doing, or even give credit to God for doing in their lives. As I grew older, I began to recognize the importance of sharing my testimony. It really wasn't me as much as it was to encourage those who hadn't made it to the testimony stage yet. They were just being tested. Every opportunity you are given to share what God has done in your life, do so. You never know how your testimony can bless someone else.

Tribute

When I started my publishing company, it was with the intention that every book, journal, magazine, and card would be a testament to something God has done in my life. A testament by definition is tangible proof. As you take the time to memorialize those who have served this country, remember all the sacrifices that have been made on your behalf. Honor those who have died for you to enjoy freedoms they never experienced. Pay tribute to those who made a way out of no way.

Author

Hebrews 12:2 (KJV)Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

I've written two books which are a collection of my anecdotes about life, love, and wisdom. I started writing poems when my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and interesting enough, I find it difficult to find the words to write about my mother's diagnosis. Maybe its the irony of it all. Maybe its the fear that I may join their ranks. Maybe its the hopelessness or vulnerability I feel every time I'm around my mother. Maybe its the doubt that God really is in control. In all of that, as a writer, I find comfort in thinking of God as an author. I don't have to be in control of this story. I don't have to make sure that the plot doesn't have holes. I don't have to create full characters. I'm not writing this story. I'm not in control. There's some comfort in not knowing the ending, and being genuinely surprised by life's turn of events. There is a peace in looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith.

Advance

Isaiah 40:31 …but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

I’ve never been a runner or an athlete for that matter. I hated running laps in P.E. In fact, I do not like anything that involves sweating or exertion. I’ve always heard Isaiah 40:31 and wondered what it must be like to run and not grow weary. When Nipsey Hustle died, I kept hearing, “the marathon continues.” The work must continue. The legacy must live on. We must advance. Advance simply means to move forward in a purposeful way. Are you moving forward in every area of your life? Where are you stagnant? Why? What do you need in order to advance? The answer is to put your hope in God. God will renew your strength, and then you can advance.

Amnesty

I don’t know how many of you pay attention to the news, but billionaire, Robert Smith paid off the student loans of the entire graduating class of 2019 at Morehouse college. Student loan debts are now the largest form of consumer debt other than mortgages. It is the only consumer debt that has grown since the financial crisis of 2008. His gift to this graduating class is monumental. However, debt cancellation is nothing new.

In the bible, there was a year of “jubilee” that occurred every seven years. Debt- slaves would be emancipated. Debts would be cancelled. In Babylon, when new rulers took the throne, they would begin their reign with debt amnesty. The logic to the debt cancellation was simple. It was good for the country, and more importantly, it was good for the economy.

Jesus came over 2000 years ago to pay a debt as well. He came to pay a spiritual debt. One that required life for a life. He gave his life for the redemption of sin. Robert Smith’s gift reminds me that God is still a debt- cancelling God. He can pay off mortgages, credit cards, and student loans. He can save us from our sins, and give us amnesty.

Afterschock

I've never experienced an earthquake, short of the ride at Universal Studios. I've slept through the ones that occurred in Georgia. I'm more of wind and rain, hurricane versus the ground is moving type girl. From what I've heard, sometimes the aftershocks are worse. Aftershocks are small earthquakes that occur after the initial quake. They often cause more damage because of the already weakened infrastructure.

We experience aftershocks in our life all the time. We experience trauma and tragedy. Sometimes, they seem to occur in cyclic manners. We get overwhelmed and depressed because it all seems like too much. We are shaken to our core by unexpected deaths and unforeseen circumstances, but they continue to happen. They continue to shape us and not break us. Difficulty tests our strength. It creates fortitude. Aftershocks prepare us for the unexpected. They keep us alert and vigilant.

1 Peter 5:8 (KJV) Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: