We are all being brainwashed

As my wife cried and honestly expressed, I thought to myself ‘Geez …but I do ask you how you are doing (everyday)?’ I pleaded my case, but I knew that winning this conversation wasn’t going to fix the problem. Ultimately, I needed to humble myself to serve and love a little more in areas, which cause me discomfort. The worse about all this is that ‘I’m tired of adapting!’ We’ve been married for more than seven years and she should know the deal by now, right? Maybe… but since I married a woman with certain needs that I’m obviously not fulfilling; I ‘gotta step my game up’.

Our marriage had hit another ‘fork in the road’ and a decision needed to be made. Luckily, when it comes to my marital relationship, I’m a purpose-driven servant refusing to offer my wife a legitimate reason to mentally or physically detach from me. Hopefully, this will keep me married for a lifetime. I know my wife’s worth. I’ll do what I need to do within the will of God to keep her heart and earthly attention.

There’s daily moments in life where opportunities to decide are present. Whether you recognized life asked you a question or not, you made a choice. As days pass, your answers to life’s questions play out. Typically in hindsight, we can pinpoint when and what decisions were made. From your circle of influence to your sources of entertainment, what you accept in your life molds the way you think and process information. Whether we admit it or not, we are all being brainwashed.

One of the best gifts that God gave man is free will. We are allowed to program ourselves to operate the way we desire. Our words and actions are a direct reflection of our sources of inspiration and what we sincerely value. Before any positive changes are made, we all have to take ownership. Sometimes what we do with our time, energy, effort, and expenses doesn’t match what our mouth says we value. This is a major conflict of interest, which will cause you serious heartache.

When there are discrepancies with what I say I value most, I evaluate the direction of my time, energy, effort, and expenses. Typically, the root cause of my issues are that those four identities are not aligned with the course I desire my life. From my experience, this is the case with most people. We say we want one thing, but practice behaviors which lead to a different spiritual, mental, relational, physical, and financial lifestyle.

Be honest with yourself and others about your values. If you don’t like what your lifestyle reflects as worthwhile, make some changes like surrounding yourself with reminders and encouragers of your morals. For me, my Christian faith is an endless, unchanging, and sustaining-proven source for a productive and fulfilling life. For example, regarding my relational issue with my wife; God has provided me many models of grace, sacrificial service, and understanding, while commanding and encouraging me to do the same.

You are being influenced. Who and what is influencing you? Is your source worthy of following and consistently reflecting your values? Where is your source leading you?

Commit for the 1st time –
http://www.intouch.org/you/all-things-are-new/content?topic=how_do_i_accept_jesus_as_my_savior_all_things

Commit to SERVE –
http://www.intouch.org/you/all-things-are-new/content?topic=does_god_really_want_me_to_serve_all_things

Standing to The Star-Spangled Banner

Lately, I’ve been having many blunt conversations with my oldest son about sex, race, religion, politics, and relationships. I’ve come to the conclusion that what I value most (my faith) is what I pray and hope will transfer into a way of life for him. In trying to connect with him, I’ve used countless examples. Some ‘hit’, while other analogies clearly missed the mark. He has expressed a genuine interest in my personal history. As a matter of fact, his little brother and he constantly ask me to tell them a story during dinner.

The other day, I pitched an idea to have a Christmas play at our house, possibly in the garage or indoors. Of course, the play was going to be about Jesus with a comical spin intending to entertain and encourage our neighbors. Nothing sacrilegious, but a God honoring rendition of the ‘reason for the season’. Needless to say, they ‘shot it down’. Our eldest verbally expressed that mentioning Jesus may be offensive to some people and that it was a private matter.

Say what?!?

He went on to say that his school asked them if they wanted to make holiday cards, which he decided he did. While making the cards, he states his teacher instructed them not to write ‘Merry Christmas’ on the card; due to a possibly of offending some recipients, who may not celebrate Christmas. Our assumption is he translated her words into thinking that mentioning Jesus Christ in public was offensive.

As many Sunday schools, Christian camps, open expressions of Christian faith, Christian prayers, and bible verses, my son have experienced; he still was influenced into believing his faith wasn’t a matter to be demonstratively expressed.This opened the door to share a childhood story.

Being quite the odd ball in school, I had a tough time connecting with the “cool” kids. Thank God for sports, because it sincerely was my saving grace; although, athletics did bring its challenges. The overall biggest trial for me was the pre-game ritual of standing to the Star-Spangled Banner. In my community, Christianity wasn’t the primary faith. Differentiating from my family's culture, the prevalent religion didn’t stand for the playing of the United States’ national anthem – they sat. So hearing, ‘Oh, say can you see…’ before every game, sometimes created more anxiety than the actual game.

One time, while visiting a rival high school game with some classmates, I chose not to stand during the playing of the national anthem. I remember feeling extremely awkward; as it was my culture to revere this national hymn.  I decided from that point, if placed in the predicament again, that I would stand. In my adolescent mind, there was no righteous cause or purpose – other than, it was very unnatural for me. The awkwardness to sit outweighed the awkwardness to stand. Although, my culture was the minority in my small town; it was sufficient to encourage me to stand (pun intended). I pray that my children will encounter the same conviction to ‘stand’ for God.

Jesus Christ commissioned Christians to make disciples.  Will this ever get accomplished, if we are quiet and politically correct in our actions and words? I would argue that it’s virtually impossible.

In the past week, I have visited with and heard from several Christians who are upset about the re-election of President Barack Obama. In addition, I’ve read some unbelievable anti-Obama Facebook and Twitter post. My thought process behind this all is… ‘Do you really believe your emotional ‘shoot from the hip’ reaction to the presidential election is going to change the world?’ The likelihood of someone altering their point of view or religious belief from being called ‘dumb, uninformed, baby killer, and ungodly’ is highly doubtful. Yet it seems, a common way of expression for dislike. This clearly is not an effective way to communicate, positively influence, or lead anyone. Furthermore, Jesus Christ modeled no behaviors which promote these actions. Instead, he affectionately served his ‘circle of influence’ in every way possible -- allowing his actions and words to bring about change. At times, he may have spoken in parables; however, his intentions and instructions were clear.

How does this relate to you? Personally, I have a great opportunity. My children will face faith oppositions throughout their school years and beyond. As the leader of my home, I must showcase Christianity consistently and boldly. If I never demonstrate my faith, then bash my children for their inactions; there’s a strong probability that they would turn with ‘deaf ears’.

Being proactive is key. Identify problems before they occur is difficult; however, wisdom points to your lack of involvement and root causes. Jesus Christ wasn’t passive aggressive – he was direct. He was focused and committed. People knew his principles. I believe we should be the same. Most recoveries take place when Christians are intentional and purpose driven. When our ‘circle of influence’ responds in a way that is contrary to our faith, we should ask ourselves, “What am I constructively doing to make a difference?” If you are not deliberately doing anything, it’s possible that you are violating a direct commandment given by Jesus Christ.

Get involve and allow your action and words to speak God’s will! Don’t have a seat, when God has directed you to stand. Proactive boldness should be a characteristic of the Christian culture, not reactive boldness. Remember, God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.  Therefore, anyone who rejects… instruction does not reject a human being but God…

If you feel an urge to recommit or commit your life to God’s will, please select the link below.

Commit for the 1^st time –

http://www.intouch.org/you/all-things-are-new/content?topic=how_do_i_accept_jesus_as_my_savior_all_things

Commit to SERVE –

http://www.intouch.org/you/all-things-are-new/content?topic=does_god_really_want_me_to_serve_all_things

I couldn't agree more!

Manhood as defined by the Bible requires men to put the needs and best interests of others before their own. It's about living sacrificially. A man uses his strength and influence to help others and defend those who cannot defend themselves. Read how manly this verse sounds and how it speaks powerfully to a man's heart:

"I rescued the poor who cried for help and the fatherless who had none to assist him...I made the widows heart sing...I was eyes to the blind and feet to the lame. I was father to the needy; I took up the case of the stranger. I broke the fangs of the wicked and snatched the victims from their teeth." Job 29:12, 13, 15-17 (NIV).

God gives men a mandate throughout the bible to protect women and children and be His representative here on earth. "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this; to look after orphans and widows in their distress" James 1:27 (NIV)…

Authentic men are passionate, fierce, and noble-they care. In fact, they are a little dangerous, but it's a good dangerous. You might not see this passion on the exterior, but it's bubbling under pressure just beneath the surface, forcing its way into every area of his life. They have a spiritual longing for adventure, for a battle to fight that's bigger than themselves, for significance in their lives. Like modern-day gladiators they stand in the ring facing the challenges of life with courage and passion.

Wow! I couldn’t agree more. Each aging year, I become more aware of my mortality. I've drawn the conclusion that those who are honored in their afterlife -- gave their lives for the well-being of others. Whether it was a symbolic or literal death, the individuals most consider truly worthy of honor are those who gave up something for their present quality of life.

When is the last time that you gave something of yourself without expecting a return? Possibly today or yesterday for your kid… How about outside of your immediate family? Quite honestly, I am challenged by the Bible’s encouragement to look after ‘orphans and widows’. I can’t recall the last time I intentionally served a parentless child or a woman who had lost a husband. In America, there’s a growing trend of men who choose not to care for their own children, yet alone caring for orphans and widows.

Here are some direct challenges inspired from the quote posted above.

1. What would your family, friends, and peers say that you are passionate about? Does your passion align with God’s will? Do you care if your passions support His will?

2. What would those who are in your circle of influence say you are ‘fighting’ that will influence eternity (‘bigger than you’)? If you were to die today, what would your family say you stood for?

3. Is there proof that you demonstrate courage in pursuing your passions and dealing with daily life issues?

Knowing the ‘for sure’ answers to these questions may give the direction, which you are headed. If you would be disappointed with your representation at your own funeral; it’s time to make some changes. Connect your will to God’s plan, and go after what you really want out of life. Living a life for others with good intentions and under God’s authority is fulfilling, exciting, and culture altering.

Small unusual steps towards your goals are better than not moving at all. http://www.intouch.org/resources/all-things-are-new/content/topic/how_do_i_accept_jesus_as_my_savior_all_things

The excerpt was taken from a blog entitled In Search of Masculinity –Part 2 (http://blogs.christianpost.com/parenting/in-search-of-masculinity-part-2-622/) written by Rick I. Johnson.

The Walking Dead

The other night, I searched through Netflix looking for a new series to watch. I love suspense-filled dramas and action, so typically I look in these genres first. I stumbled across a 4.5 star rated television series, The Walking Dead. The show description seemed interesting and worthy of my ‘lying in the bed’ downtime; so I gave it ‘a shot’. Wow! It provided quite the entertainment. By the second episode, I was intensely grabbing my phone with sweaty hands, while kicking my feet and loudly calling the victims ‘fools’ for not doing what I told them.


After my wife had completed her nightly ritual, she jumped in bed, leaned over for a goodnight kiss, and quietly asked if I wanted to pray. Absolutely, it’s the norm. We always start with thanksgiving, and then move to specific requests of needs for us and others. Occasionally, we will pray for a good night’s sleep; as I did this particular night. Well, guess what, I didn’t sleep well at all. For some strange reason, I dreamt of zombies all night. “Come on God, I prayed for rest. Why didn’t you deliver ‘God of Peace’? I had to work all day on 6 hours of interrupted sleep.”

Rhetorical question alert: Why was my prayer for rest not fulfilled?

I was delusional to thought that sleep would be peaceful. My mental state was affected by a bad decision. There’s no way of reaping long-term benefits from polluting your mind, body, spirit, soul, and relationships. Prayer isn’t a guaranteed solution to override bad choices. However, godly living can prevent most, if not all, miserable results.

If you desire health in any area of your life, start with foundational principles which lead to success. Verbally professing a conditional promise of God (scripture) with contradicting actions is pointless. Yes, faith is the substance of things hope for; however, praying for (something) when your lifestyle reflects (nothing) is absurd. For example, overindulging in areas, which God has given us freedom through Jesus Christ to enjoy, can lead to death/disaster. There are so many examples which I could provide from my own past mistakes to current ones. We daily face crossroads were the decision to place God’s foundation first is optional. Not knowing what the bible says about life is a personal problem. In life, ignorance is not bliss. What you don’t know – can hurt you. You may be praying for something, that the bible has already informed is the opposite will of God. Yet, your lack of discipline to get the information you need is holding you back from acting on and receiving God’s promise.

According to Genesis, God breathe his life into man and he became a living creature. God is still breathing through his word (the Bible). If you are not allowing it to change your lifestyle, you could become ‘The Walking Dead’.

Start here for foundation regarding your spiritual health.
http://www.intouch.org/resources/all-things-are-new/content/topic/how_do_i_accept_jesus_as_my_savior_all_things

The Whistleblower

For 4 years now, our street has hosted an annual spring block party. Neighboring streets join us to celebrate a day of community fellowship from bounce houses, grilling, to adult and children interactive games. It’s a great way to become familiar with your neighbors, while enjoying awesome weather and eating an array of food.


Each year (mid-party), I’m allowed the opportunity to flex my inner game show host by leading the children and adults into prize-winning competitive, fun games. Contending against bounce houses is tough. Sustaining kid’s attention, while water is gushing out of a 32 feet tall by 25 feet long slide/bounce house is challenging but cool. Typically, I lose my voice; so this year, I decided to use a whistle as a signal for starting and stopping. It worked extremely well until we played musical chairs.

If you know anything about or ever played musical chairs, you know that this game is enjoyable for the audience and participants. However, it can easily become aggressive promoting children and adults to become emotionally upset. Since I didn’t properly plan, there was no stereo involved. The children moved to the tunes of my lovely whistled-out symphony.

Before we began the game, there were several practice rounds to assure every kid understood the rules. Realizing that I could be biased by supporting my two sons, I informed the audience that I would be turning my back to the ‘musical chair-ers’. Also, the audience was told that they would have to hold the children accountable to the rules of the game. If they were out, let them know. Adding my own special touch, they were also informed, ‘if they started to cry to promptly find their mom…’ Tacky I know, but it was quite hilarious because some kids actually did, including my oldest. Geez!

We began the game. Of course, the youngest children were out first. As I turned around to remove each chair, you could sense the intensity thickening and anxiety increasing. With only 5 kids remaining, parents became more verbally demonstrative. They exclaimed to me, ‘They are sitting down before you blow the whistle! They are holding on to a chair!’ So after getting down to three children, I re-did the games and reinforced the rules. Finally, I asked the crowd, ‘why do you keep telling me – tell them – hold them responsible...’ After all, they were seeing what was happening. My back was intentionally facing them. Immediately, I received inspiration for this blog.

The message is simple. If you see someone doing something that would harm them, verbally hold them accountable (in love). Please - do not wait for someone else to intervene, when you are capable. Do not back down from ‘reinforcing the rules’. If you do not have a relationship with them, but are concern about their well-being; find a way to first demonstrate love (Hebrews 12:6). After doing so, let them know that they are harming themselves. Don’t wait for ‘the whistleblower’ to expose. He will not be as nice.

Be ready when the whistle blows!
http://www.intouch.org/resources/all-things-are-new/content/topic/how_do_i_accept_jesus_as_my_savior_all_things